That New Carpet Smell…

…actually isn’t good for you. Referred to as “off-gassing” chemicals are being released into your home which can cause eye and sinus irritation and be even more damaging for individuals with respiratory ailments, allergies and asthma.

The “off-gassing” chemical is a  VOC called 4-phenylcyclohexene (4-PCH), which is a byproduct of the latex binder used to secure the “tufted” fibers to the backing. 4-PCH can linger after installation for up to a week, exposing the homeowner to the pungent odor.

So what can you do?

If possible, let the new carpet air out for at least 1 week prior to installation, either at the carpet warehouse or even in your garage with the door cracked open. Much off-gassing occurs as soon as the carpet is taken out of its plastic packaging. Try to keep humidity below 45% in your home. Vacuum your newly installed carpet with a HEPA-filter rated vacuum.

Leave windows open, especially in rooms where the new carpet was installed, and have fans running for a couple weeks after installation.