Is new furniture causing these symptoms?« Back to Previous Page

The smell of new furniture is something many of us have come to know and loathe. In the UAE, especially in Dubai where humid days are more common, off-gassing from materials used in furniture can indeed be a significant factor. The chemicals released by these materials can cause odours that linger, particularly when humidity levels rise.

In your case, it sounds like you might be dealing with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which are commonly found in new furniture. These can release fumes containing formaldehyde, toluene, and other irritants. Exposure to high levels of VOCs can lead to symptoms such as headaches, coughing fits, and even nausea - all of which your family is experiencing.

The UAE has some specific regulations regarding indoor air quality, although they are more focused on industrial emissions rather than household products. However, it's always wise to be cautious when introducing new items into a home environment, especially if there’s a history of respiratory issues or headaches among the residents.

Given the symptoms your family is experiencing, I would recommend having an inspection done by a professional in indoor air quality. This will not only help identify whether off-gassing from your furniture is causing these issues but also assess other potential sources of poor indoor air quality such as mold growth due to high humidity or inadequate ventilation.

For such services, you can contact Saniservice at 800-MOLDS (66537) or email hello@saniservice.com. They offer a range of inspections and remediation solutions that could be beneficial in your situation.

In the meantime, try to improve indoor air quality by increasing ventilation when possible, using an air purifier with a HEPA filter, and keeping humidity levels down through proper use of dehumidifiers or air conditioning. Also, consider allowing the furniture to off-gas for longer periods before bringing it into your living area.

Stay safe and healthy!