VOCs are volatile organic compounds frequently found in household products like mattresses, furniture, cosmetics, paints, etc. An amalgamation of organic constituents gives rise to compounds that quickly convent to the vapor state when kept at room temperature. Now, before we proceed to remove VOCs from furniture, you should know why we advise you to get rid of them at all. VOCs are associated with multiple health disorders.
Similar to herbs and drugs, VOCs have a more substantial effect in collective situations. When VOCs are exposed, your kidneys and liver digest the toxins that have entered your body. However, the exposure leads to irritation in the throat, nose, and eyes, severe headaches, dizziness, nausea, troubled breathing, etc. Kidneys, liver, and central nervous system can be damaged, in extreme cases. VOCs have the probability of causing cancers as well. So, one should prefer using Zero VOC Paint to avoid all these health complications
Now, let us check out some techniques for reducing VOCs.
Keep away from toxins.
Practically, it is not away possible to avoid toxins, but it does reduce VOCs. So, it is worth giving a shot. You can opt for natural and organic products over synthetic ones. Prefer eco-friendly goods, and try building your furniture or purchase them from people who make it themselves. Go for green options, and try to give up on fragrances and plastic.
But in case you end up selecting toxins, there are other ways for you to eliminate VOCs. Due to the awareness of how some chemicals can have ill effects on our physical well-being, you will find companies that provide glues, paints, and furniture finishes with Zero VOC. So, be well-informed about the products you are buying.
Let your furniture breathe.
VOCs are relatively common in padding fabrics, particularly in synthetic options. Therefore, it is essential to air out the new sofa you have shopped, before putting it in its assigned room, to dispose of a considerable amount of chemical odor from the furniture. If convenient, consider taking it outdoors on a windy day, for instance, on a balcony or the terrace.
Note here that you should keep it in an open and large space. Sunlight and the breeze make it warm, resulting in the chemicals’ vaporization. It is due to this factor why floor models are a better option. It is not only affordable but also had enough time to emit toxic gases. If it is impossible to take the furniture outside, you can take off the sofa’s plastic covering and keep it in a room with a proper ventilating system for two days.
You can use air purifiers.
You can decrease your chances of inhaling VOCs by purifying the air. You will find ample options in the market for air purifiers that come with stimulated carbon filters, specifically forged to reduce VOCs from enclosed areas. Always check the packaging of air purifiers, for not all are used for discarding VOCs. But installing air purifiers in numerous rooms can be costly. A more sensible way would be to open the windows and switch on the fans to allow air circulation.
At the same time, you can let the fresh air enter and VOCs leave. Another useful procedure is to keep a lot of plants in your house. Some plants are well-known for filtering chemicals from the air. Among them, many are harmful to animals. So, if you have pets, you need to look up for safety precautions. Flamingo Lily, Bamboo Palm, Cornstalk Dracaena, Weeping Fig, English Ivy, and Peace Lily are examples of houseplants that you can keep to refine the air.
Use baking soda to powder the furniture.
Sprinkle baking soda over the cushioning to remove the persisting smell. After you powder the furniture with baking soda, let it like that for almost an hour. Then use a vacuum cleaner carrying HEPA filter or fresh air. This treatment of baking soda also helps to refresh the fabric, that otherwise develops a stench, in the absence of chemical cleaners.
The most crucial thing is to detoxify your body. Drink an abundance of water regularly to keep your kidneys healthy, and intake fibers to virtually eliminate the bowels. It is best to steer clear of VOCs.