After bringing home a new piece of furniture from a store, it’s not uncommon to notice a peculiar chemical smell. Unfortunately, this isn't just due to packaging or days spent lingering in a warehouse. In fact, there are certain harmful chemicals -- known as volatile organic compounds, or VOCs -- that are used to treat furniture and that have been linked to respiratory and nervous system damage. There are a few simple methods you can employ to get rid of the chemical smell and some of the dangers associated with it.
Remove any covers or fabrics on your furniture that can be removed, such as chair backings or couch cushions.
Launder these items according to the care instructions found on the furniture label. Pay attention to symbols such as W/S or S. The first symbol indicates that you can clean the items with water and soap, whereas the S indicates that only a solvent-based cleaner can be used to clean the items.
Leave the fabric items outside to air dry. If you can't leave them outdoors, then leave them in a well-ventilated room or a room with a fan.
Dissolve 1 tbsp. of baking soda into a cup of warm water.
Moisten a clean cloth with the mixture.
Wipe down the furniture with the cloth. The baking soda mixture should absorb the chemical smell.
Allow the furniture to air dry.