How can I clean strong odors out of new furniture?

HappyGrandmaGA
by HappyGrandmaGA

We bought a new bedroom set for our little granddaughter who has bad allergies but she can’t even sleep in her room due to the strong odors coming from the furniture. After 2 weeks of running a large air purifier 24/7 has not helped! Any suggestions to get rid of the smell on the stained wood? TIA.


  8 answers
  • Very often new furniture that is not all wood contains formaldehyde and it will 'gas-off'. Another culprit could be the glues used in assembling the furniture. One way to deal with it is to put the furniture in the garage for a while to let it gas-off out there.

  • HappyGrandmaGA HappyGrandmaGA on Mar 21, 2020

    Wow, I never thought of that! I didn’t think to check before we bought it. I doubt I can return it but maybe I should call and ask. It’s very heavy and upstairs so impossible to move. I wonder if I washed it down w vinegar and water, it might help to dissipate the smell?

  • Vimarhonor Vimarhonor on Mar 21, 2020

    Hello. I have seen a blogger recommended vodka.


    This resource Stinky Dresser Makeover | Confessions of a Serial Do-it-Yourselfer link has the answer.


    https://www.confessionsofaserialdiyer.com/stinky-dresser-makeover/

  • Peggy L Burnette Peggy L Burnette on Mar 22, 2020

    Hi this is Peggy. I am sorry you are having problems with your granddaughters furniture. I hope this helps you. Stay well.

    How to Get Rid of Strong Wood Stain Smells | Wood, Odor ...

    www.pinterest.com › pin


    Wood stains contain chemicals and compounds that sometimes give off strong odors. While staining, a respirator and adequate ventilation is recommended to ...

  • HappyGrandmaGA HappyGrandmaGA on Mar 22, 2020

    I didn’t stain it. I purchased it and it’s a top quality heavy set. I never thought we’d have to worry about this.

    • What type of finish is on the bed? Painted, stain and seal? In addition, I would contact the store and discuss your issue. I would also contact the manufacturer. Vinegar/water solution might help on a painted surface. Call the manufacturer first, you don't want to void any warranty you may have.

  • Kathy Gunter Law Kathy Gunter Law on Mar 23, 2020

    OdoBan is my go to odor eliminator. You can wipe down furniture, diluted, and it should be fine.

  • Cheryl A Cheryl A on Mar 24, 2020

    I would start by calling the mfg of the bedroom suite and asking them why it has this strong odor after a few weeks. Then if nothing else works you can put a drop of vanilla extract on a balled up paper towel and place in some of the drawers etc and will remove most all odors

  • John John on Oct 25, 2021

    Long story short: get it outside. What you're talking about is off-gassing. Essentially, the product is made and then packaged shortly after completion, before all chemicals have done their thing. The result is the smells are captured until you open it..The best thing to do is get it outside or in your garage. Also, it's worth mentioning that some people's olfactory sense is much more sensitive than others. My brother-in-law is 1,000 miles away and can probably smell what I had for breakfast. Maybe also try and use a strong air freshener like a smoke odor eliminator.