Office Chair Has a Strong Odor

A strong odor from a newly purchased office chair does not necessarily mean it contains formaldehyde, and it may pose potential harm to the skin. There are various methods to remove the odor.

Sources of the Odor and Its Impact on the Skin

The strong odor of an office chair mainly stems from the materials and manufacturing processes used in the chair itself. During production, materials such as glue and paint are used, and the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) contained in these materials will volatilize after production, creating a pungent smell. This odor does not necessarily indicate the presence of formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is usually odorless and only produces an irritating smell to the eyes and nose at extremely high concentrations. A strong odor from a newly purchased office chair may pose certain potential risks to the skin. The VOCs contained in the materials, such as formaldehyde and benzene, may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions upon prolonged exposure, leading to skin redness, itching, stinging, or triggering rashes and hives.

Methods to Remove the Odor

• Ventilation: Place the chair in a well-ventilated area to allow indoor air circulation, which helps volatilize the VOCs. After about a week of ventilation, the odor will significantly diminish. This is the most basic and effective method.
• Activated Carbon: Place activated carbon near the chair. Activated carbon has a porous structure that can adsorb organic compounds in the air. However, it is important to replace the activated carbon periodically to maintain its adsorption effectiveness.
• Other Methods: Place food items such as orange peels or green tea leaves near the chair, as they have odor-removing properties. You can also use specialized odor-removing products, such as charcoal packs or deodorizers. Additionally, wiping the chair several times with a damp cloth can remove residual chemicals from the surface. Choose appropriate cleaning methods based on the material of the computer chair, such as using a vacuum cleaner and cleaner for mesh computer chairs, a damp cloth for leather computer chairs, and removing and washing the chair cover or cleaning the entire chair for fabric computer chairs. For fabric computer chairs, consider using chair covers to reduce direct contact with harmful substances. When purchasing, prioritize chairs made from eco-friendly materials to minimize the release of harmful substances at the source.