VOCs & Indoor Air QualityOff-gassing Guide 2026
Volatile organic compounds are invisible chemicals released by everyday products. Indoor VOC levels are typically 2-5 times higher than outdoors.
Indoor VOC Statistics
Common VOCs in Homes
| VOC | Sources | Health Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Formaldehyde | Pressed wood, carpets, insulation | Carcinogen, respiratory irritation |
| Benzene | Paints, glues, furniture | Carcinogen, blood disorders |
| Toluene | Paints, nail polish, adhesives | Neurological effects, headaches |
| Xylene | Paints, varnishes, adhesives | Respiratory irritation, dizziness |
| Acetaldehyde | Flooring, wall coverings | Respiratory irritation, possible carcinogen |
| Limonene | Cleaning products, air fresheners | Respiratory sensitizer, ozone reactions |
Reducing VOC Exposure
1. Choose Low-VOC Products
Select paints, varnishes, and adhesives labeled "low VOC" or "zero VOC." Look for environmental certifications like EU Ecolabel or Blue Angel.
2. Air Out New Products
Unpack new furniture outside or in a well-ventilated area. Open windows for several days after painting or installing new carpets.
3. Ventilate Regularly
Open windows daily, even briefly. Use extractor fans when using cleaning products or personal care items.
4. Use Activated Carbon Filtration
Air purifiers with activated carbon adsorb many VOCs. Choose models with substantial carbon beds for effective gas removal.
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"New House Smell" - What It Really Is
The "new house smell" or "new car smell" is actually a cocktail of VOCs off-gassing from materials. While often perceived as pleasant, these are chemical emissions that should be ventilated out. New buildings can have total VOC levels 10-100 times higher than established ones.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are VOCs?
Volatile Organic Compounds are chemicals that evaporate at room temperature. Common indoor VOCs include formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and xylene. They come from paints, furniture, cleaning products, and building materials.
What products contain VOCs?
Many household items release VOCs: paints, varnishes, new furniture, carpets, cleaning products, air fresheners, cosmetics, pressed wood products, and plastics. Even "natural" products like essential oils release VOCs.
How do VOCs affect health?
Short-term exposure causes headaches, dizziness, eye/throat irritation, and nausea. Long-term exposure to some VOCs like formaldehyde and benzene increases cancer risk. Sensitivity varies between individuals.
Do air purifiers remove VOCs?
HEPA filters don't capture gases like VOCs. Activated carbon filters adsorb many VOCs effectively. For VOC reduction, choose purifiers with substantial activated carbon beds, not just thin carbon-coated HEPA filters.
How long does off-gassing last?
New furniture and building materials off-gas most heavily in the first weeks to months. Some items continue releasing VOCs for years at lower levels. Ventilation accelerates the process.
Remove VOCs & Gases
Activated carbon filters adsorb VOCs and chemical gases from indoor air.
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