When you walk into a room with brand-new carpet, you’ll notice an unmistakable new carpet smell immediately. It might evoke a sense of fresh change. However, for many homeowners, the odor is far from pleasant.
The scent comes from chemical compounds in the carpet. When left unaddressed, the smell can linger.
Homeowners don’t have to tolerate the scent. This article will teach you how to quickly get rid of the new carpet smell through simple solutions.
What Causes New Carpet Smell?
During manufacturing, carpets receive treatments with adhesives, dyes, and chemicals to enhance their look, durability, and resistance to stains or wear. These chemicals are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that release into the air due to off-gassing.
Common VOCs include formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and benzene. These chemicals are common in paint, cleaning products, and furniture. While these compounds are in small quantities, the smell they emit can be strong and unpleasant, especially in enclosed spaces. Some individuals may experience symptoms like headaches or respiratory irritation from prolonged exposure.
Understanding the source of this smell allows homeowners to mitigate its presence effectively. By implementing the following solutions, it’s possible to eliminate the unfavorable scent and enjoy your new carpet without discomfort.
Immediate Actions After Installation
The key to reducing that chemical smell right away is ventilation and air circulation. Here’s what you can do immediately after the carpet installation:
- Open the windows to maximize airflow in the room and allow fresh air to circulate. Keep them open as long as possible over the next few days to bring in fresh air. This will keep the VOCs moving out instead of lingering.
- Turn on ceiling fans or place a box fan in the room to boost air circulation. Positioning a fan so it blows toward an open window can help push airborne VOCs outside faster.
- Since carpet installation can release dust and VOCs into the air, replacing the HVAC filter can help. This will prevent chemicals from settling in your HVAC system and circulating throughout your house.
These simple steps can dramatically reduce the intensity of the odor within the first 24 to 48 hours.
Natural Solutions To Neutralize the Scent
If the smell persists, turn to natural remedies to absorb and neutralize the odor. Here are a few tried-and-true options that are environmentally friendly and effective.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural odor absorber and works wonders on new carpet smells.
- Sprinkle a generous layer of baking soda across the carpet.
- Allow the baking soda to sit for at least 24 hours. Leaving the baking soda on the carpet for over 24 hours is even better because it has more time to absorb odors.
- Vacuum the carpet thoroughly to remove the powder.
You can safely repeat this process until the smell dissipates.
White Vinegar
White vinegar is an excellent deodorizer that works by neutralizing VOCs in the air.
- Fill small bowls with white vinegar.
- Set the bowls in several locations throughout the room with the new carpet.
- Leave the bowls out overnight or for a few days, depending on the strength of the odor.
While vinegar has its own strong smell, it will fade quickly after removing the bowls, taking the new carpet smell with it. If you have small children or pets, make sure the bowls of vinegar are out of reach.
Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a powerful odor absorber that works well for stubborn, lingering smells.
- Place activated charcoal bags or pellets in the room with the new carpet.
- Arrange the bags on tables or shelves near the carpet or directly on the floor.
- Leave them in place for a few days, so the charcoal absorbs the VOCs.
Cleaning Methods
Cleaning the carpet will also reduce or eliminate the odor. If you have additional questions about cleaning and its impact on your warranty, reach out to your carpet installer. Here are the top cleaning methods to try.
Regular Vacuuming
Frequent vacuuming in the days after installation removes debris and particles that might contribute to the unfavorable smell. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter for the best results to trap fine particles on the carpet’s surface.
Steam Cleaning
A steam cleaner can be particularly effective at removing lingering VOCs from deep within the carpet fibers. It will tackle residue leftover from manufacturing or the installation process. Plus, since it only requires water, a steam cleaner is less likely to aggravate people’s allergies.
- Fill the steam cleaner with hot water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Slowly release the steam over the entire carpet.
- Allow the carpet to dry completely before replacing the furniture or walking on the surface.
Use Air Purifiers
Air purifiers are a fantastic investment for households dealing with new carpet odors.
HEPA Filters
Purifiers equipped with HEPA filters capture airborne contaminants, including VOC particles. These purifiers are a reliable way to minimize odor and air pollutants in your home.
Activated Carbon Filters
Air purifiers with activated carbon filters can absorb odors and chemical particles, making them ideal for combating the new carpet smell. Place the air purifier in the room with the new carpet and run it on high for several hours each day.
Professional Cleaning Services
If you’ve tried numerous methods and the smell still lingers, it might be time to bring in the pros. It’s a worthwhile investment if you’re struggling with severe off-gassing or if you have small children who spend a lot of time on the carpet.
Professional carpet cleaners use advanced equipment that will neutralize odors. They may use hot water extraction methods, which are especially effective for removing stubborn VOCs.
Fresh Air Awaits
The new carpet smell doesn’t have to overstay its welcome. With these tips, you can quickly get rid of the new carpet smell and enjoy your stunning floors without the unpleasant odor.
Are you asking yourself, “Where can I find carpet installation services near me?” Turn to Portland Floor. Our experienced contractors will help you choose the best material for your home and guide you through the installation process.
Visit our Portland showroom today to learn more. You can enjoy your new carpet in no time with our assistance.