That “new carpet” smell might seem harmless, but it’s actually a byproduct of chemical fumes called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). While these emissions usually fade within a few weeks, proper ventilation and cleaning can speed up the process—often cutting the smell down to just a few days. If the odor lingers or causes irritation, simple steps like using baking soda, steam cleaning, or running an air purifier with an activated carbon filter can help. Read on to learn the safest, fastest ways to clear the air in your home.
What Is the “New Carpet” Smell?
The odor of new carpeting is caused by chemicals known as volatile organic compounds or VOCs.
This broad group of chemicals includes many that are frequently used in the manufacture of household products, such as paint, vinyl flooring, and pressed-wood furniture.
“Volatile,” in this case, means they evaporate at room temperature. As a new carpet gradually releases or off-gasses chemical residue, the chemicals enter the air where we can smell them. Within a few days to a few weeks, these fumes dissipate, and the carpet no longer smells.
The main culprits in carpet odors are 4-phenylcyclohexene (4-PCH) and styrene, which come from the carpet backing, padding, and adhesives used during installation. Other chemicals, like dyes and water repellents, can also contribute to the smell if the manufacturer doesn’t completely rinse them out.
Is New Carpet Safe To Be Around?
Most carpets release low levels of VOCs, but the adhesives and padding underneath can emit more. Since carpets cover large areas, they can be a major indoor source of VOCs right after installation.
For most people, new carpet fumes aren’t harmful—there’s no proven link between 4-PCH and serious health risks. That said, most manufacturers recommend ventilating the room for at least three days and avoiding use during that time, so be sure to follow your manufacturer’s guidelines during installation.
If you’re sensitive to chemicals or have asthma, VOC exposure may trigger headaches, dizziness, or throat irritation. If that happens, increase ventilation, use an air purifier with an activated carbon filter, or try steam cleaning to speed up off-gassing.
Clearing Your Air of New Carpet Smell
The best way to reduce new carpet odor is to start before installation:
- Choose a low-VOC carpet: Look for Green Label or Green Label Plus certification from the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI). Natural options like wool also off-gas less.
- Ask for low-VOC adhesives: If possible, opt for a floating installation with no adhesive.
- Let the carpet air out before installation: If you can, unroll it in a dry, ventilated area for a few days to release VOCs before bringing it inside.
- Install carpet last in renovations: This prevents it from absorbing fumes from paint or other materials.
To clear your air after you install your carpet:
- Ventilate aggressively: Open windows and run fans on high for at least 72 hours. Keep the door closed to contain fumes.
- Vacuum daily: A strong vacuum helps pull out lingering chemicals.
- Use baking soda: Sprinkle it on, let it sit overnight, then vacuum.
- Steam clean: A rented steam cleaner or professional service can remove more residue.
- Use an activated carbon air purifier: Standard HEPA filters don’t remove VOCs, so make sure your air purifier has carbon filtration.
- Try houseplants: Boston ferns, spider plants, bamboo palms, and English ivy can absorb small amounts of VOCs.
With these steps, you can eliminate new carpet odor in just a few days instead of waiting weeks.
