“New” can be a wonderful scent. A car with leather interior, a scented candle lit for the first time, a batch of cookies fresh out of the oven, fresh basil from the garden – these and more do a remarkable job of awakening our senses.

Then again, some new household odors aren’t nearly as inviting. Some, in fact, can make you sick, including the odor from new carpet and padding.

That familiar smell, which can last for weeks or months, is caused mainly by the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as formaldehyde and other pollutants commonly used in the manufacturing process.

These emissions are also known as “off gassing.” It’s a serious health hazard that can trigger asthma and other allergic reactions. These chemicals are neurotoxins and allergens both. Off-gassing typically emanates from carpeting made from plastic or other synthetic fibers that are first treated with fire-retardant chemicals. If you have new carpeting and are plagued by fatigue, skin rashes or breathing problems, chances are you have an off-gassing problem.

In 1993 the carpet industry began policing itself, requiring manufacturers to label their products, as needed, with the following health advisory: “Some people experience allergic or flu-like symptoms, headaches, or respiratory problems, which are associated with the installation, cleaning or removal of carpeting.” If you see that or a similar warning on a carpet that interests you, here’s what to do instead:

Look for the green label that indicates the carpet meets industry standards.
Ask the installer to air out the new carpet for a day or two before installation.
Leave windows open and a fan running for a few days after installation.
Make sure the installer seals seams with non-toxic adhesive. Glue is another potential source of indoor air pollution.
Vacuum your carpet frequently and deep clean it annually to avoid triggering other allergic reactions.
Best of all, choose non-toxic carpets, including those made from sustainable materials like sisal, coir, wool, or organic cotton. Safer is always better.

Unfortunately, off-gassing isn’t the only indoor chemical reaction that can cause health problems. Frequent headaches, drowsiness, itchy eyes, dry skin, and other symptoms can be caused by numerous indoor air pollutants. If conditions like that exist in your home, contact Optimum Air for a free in-home consultation on how to improve your family’s indoor air quality all year long.