Why Does Furniture Smell? And What You Need to Know About Low-VOC Furniture

We’ve all been there—you bring home a new piece of furniture, unwrap it, and suddenly your living room smells like a DIY store. That “new furniture” smell might seem harmless, but there’s more to it than meets the nose.

In this guide, we’ll explain why furniture smells, what causes it, and how choosing low-VOC furniture can help you create a healthier, fresher home—especially important for young families, allergy sufferers, or anyone keen on a non-toxic interior.

🧪 What Causes That New Furniture Smell?

That scent is usually caused by a process called off-gassing. This happens when volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released from certain materials and finishes used during manufacturing.

Common culprits include:

• Foam cushions (often polyurethane)
  
  

• Particleboard or MDF with adhesive resins
  
  

• Paints, varnishes, stains and sealants
  
  

• Synthetic fabrics or coatings
  
  

As these VOCs evaporate, they release gases into the air. Some can cause irritation, especially in enclosed spaces with little ventilation.

🌿 What Is Low-VOC Furniture?

Low-VOC furniture is made using materials and finishes that release minimal levels of volatile organic compounds, reducing exposure to potentially harmful fumes.

What makes furniture low-VOC?

• Natural materials like solid wood, bamboo, or rattan
  
  

• Water-based glues and finishes instead of solvent-based ones
  
  

• Greenguard-certified foams and fabrics
  
  

• Eco-friendly paints, oils and waxes used in finishing
  
  

These pieces are better for indoor air quality, especially in modern UK homes where insulation is tight and airflow can be limited.

🏡 Why Low-VOC Furniture Is a Smart Choice

Choosing non-toxic furniture isn’t just a “green” lifestyle buzzword. It can have a real impact on how your home feels—and how your body responds.

✅ Benefits of low-VOC furniture:

• Reduces exposure to respiratory irritants
  
  

• Safer for children, pets and people with asthma or allergies
  
  

• Helps prevent headaches or nausea linked to chemical sensitivity
  
  

• Creates a more comfortable, breathable indoor environment
  
  

And let’s be honest—no one wants their new sideboard to smell like a chemical spill.

🪑 Common Low-VOC Furniture Materials

Looking to furnish your home without the heavy fumes? Here are some materials to keep an eye out for:

🌬️ How to Get Rid of Furniture Smells (If You’ve Already Got One)

Already purchased a piece and it’s a bit pongy? Here’s how to deal with that new furniture smell:

• Open windows and let the room air out for a few days
  
  

• Use a fan to increase airflow around the item
  
  

• Leave bowls of baking soda or activated charcoal nearby to absorb odours
  
  

• For wooden furniture, gently wipe surfaces with white vinegar or lemon water (spot test first!)
  
  

Most smells will fade within a couple of weeks—but if it lingers, it may be worth contacting the supplier or checking for damp.

💬 Final Thought: Breathe Easy with Smarter Furniture Choices

A beautiful home shouldn't come at the expense of your wellbeing. By opting for low-VOC furniture in the UK, you're choosing a healthier, more breathable space that’s better for your family—and the planet too.

Next time you’re shopping for a sofa, cabinet or even a dining chair, check the materials, finishes, and whether the item is certified for low emissions. It might not be listed in bold print, but it makes a real difference behind the scenes.