New Furniture Smell: VOC Hazards and Health Guide

Buying furniture brings a fresh breath to our homes. However, sometimes this excitement can give way to concern when the characteristic "new furniture smell" emanates from new furniture. So, why does this smell occur and what risks does it pose to our health?

Source of Furniture Smell: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

The smell of new furniture generally originates from materials used in the production process:

Paints and Varnishes: These substances that protect and color furniture surfaces can be solvent-based or water-based.

Adhesives: Adhesives used in assembling furniture may contain VOCs such as formaldehyde.

Fabrics and Upholstery: Some fabrics and upholstery materials can also cause VOC emissions.

These substances are called "Volatile Organic Compounds" (VOCs) and evaporate at room temperature, mixing into the air.

Potential Hazards of VOCs

Short-term Effects: Symptoms such as headache, eye burning, throat irritation, nausea, and dizziness may occur. Allergic reactions and asthma symptoms may be triggered, especially in sensitive individuals.

Long-term Effects: Prolonged and high-concentration VOC exposure can lead to serious health problems such as certain types of cancer, nervous system damage, and liver problems.

Important Note: Not everyone reacts to VOCs the same way. Children, elderly, pregnant women, and people with respiratory conditions may be more sensitive to these effects.

Waiting Period by Paint Type

Solvent-Based Paints: Have stronger VOC emissions and may take longer to ventilate (average 7-14 days).

Water-Based Paints: Have lower VOC emissions and can be ventilated in a shorter time (average 2-7 days).

Natural Oils and Waxes: VOC emission is at the lowest level and the smell generally disappears within a short period.

Ventilation and Odor Removal Methods

Good Ventilation: For the first few days after receiving your furniture, frequently open the room's windows for ventilation. If possible, also open doors to ensure airflow.

Fan Use: You can increase air circulation by using a fan while ventilating the room.

Plants: Some plants have the ability to absorb VOCs from the air. You can improve air quality by using houseplants such as peace lily and spider plant.

Activated Carbon: Activated carbon filters placed in the room can help eliminate odors.

Humidity Level: High humidity can increase VOC emissions. Take care to keep humidity levels within ideal ranges.

Paint Types by VOC Content

Solvent-Based Paints (Oil Paints): Use organic solvents (thinner, turpentine) as solvents. They have high VOC levels. Alkyd paints, epoxy paints, and some varnishes fall into this category.

Water-Based Paints: Use water as solvent. They can have low or zero VOC levels. Acrylic paints and latex paints fall into this category. They are safer for indoor furniture and children's rooms.

Polyurethane Paints and Varnishes: Both solvent and water-based options are available. Preferred for durability and long-lasting surfaces.

Cellulosic Paints: Solvent-based and known for their fast drying feature. Has high VOC levels.

Special Warning for Bedroom Furniture

First 7 Days: After new furniture is placed in the bedroom, the room's windows should be kept continuously open during the day and the room should be used as little as possible.

7-14 Days: Although odor intensity begins to decrease, it is important to continue ventilation and leave the room door open while sleeping at night.

Sensitive Individuals: People with asthma, allergies, or respiratory conditions should not sleep in this room until the furniture is thoroughly ventilated.

Our Approach at Archidecors

At Archidecors, we care about our customers' health. We prefer eco-friendly and low-VOC materials in our production processes. If desired, this issue can be completely eliminated with 0% VOC certified product finishes. The Archidecors next-generation finish is based on molecular bonding: a revolutionary technology where hazardous factors are eliminated.