You’ve been looking forward to your new carpet for months. After carefully choosing the color, thickness, and style, your home finally has the refreshed look you wanted. But then it hits you: the strong, unpleasant new carpet smell.
That odor comes from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released during a process called off-gassing. While generally harmless in small amounts, VOCs can still cause irritation or discomfort, especially for children, pets, or anyone sensitive to chemicals. The good news? You don’t have to live with that smell for long. Here’s how to get rid of new carpet smell quickly and safely.
Is New Carpet Smell Harmful?
New carpet odor is caused by VOCs found in carpet fibers, adhesives, and backing materials. These chemicals are also common in household products like paint and furniture. In large quantities or with prolonged exposure, VOCs can cause symptoms such as:
- Headaches
- Nausea or dizziness
- Irritated eyes, nose, or throat
The American Lung Association recommends choosing low-VOC carpets and adhesives when possible and ventilating the area for at least 72 hours after installation. If you feel unwell from the odor, step into fresh air and consult a doctor.
How Long Does New Carpet Smell Last?
For most households, the smell of new carpet lasts about two weeks, though this varies based on ventilation and carpet type. Without proper airflow, the odor may linger longer. The fastest way to shorten that window is by increasing ventilation and cleaning the carpet soon after installation.
Tips for New Carpet Smell Removal
Here are the most effective ways to reduce or eliminate new carpet odor:
1. Have your New Carpet Professionally Cleaned
Professional cleaning helps remove VOCs, installation dust, and carpet fibers that shed after installation. At HydroClean, we use gentle, non-toxic cleaning solutions and steam cleaning methods that reduce off-gassing while leaving your carpets fresh and safe.
Pro tip: Schedule your first professional cleaning soon after installation, then every 12-18 months to maintain freshness and extend carpet life.
2. Vacuum Regularly with a HEPA Filter
Vacuuming removes allergens, VOC particles, and loose fibers. Use a HEPA-filter vacuum to capture the smallest particles and keep them from circulating back into the air. For best results, vacuum daily during the first few weeks after installation.
3. Don’t Use Baking Soda
Many DIY guides recommend sprinkling baking soda on new carpets, but its fine particles can sink beneath the carpet padding, making it difficult to remove completely. Instead, stick with professional cleaning, vacuuming, and ventilation.
4. Ventilate the Area
Fresh air is your best defense against new carpet odors. Open windows, run fans, and point them toward open doors or windows to push fumes outside. If possible, ventilate the area for at least 72 hours after installation. Staying elsewhere for a couple of days can also help reduce exposure.
5. Choose Low-VOC or Natural Carpets
If you’re planning ahead, opt for low-VOC carpets or natural materials like wool. These choices release fewer chemicals, helping prevent strong odors in the first place. While they may cost more upfront, they’re healthier for your family and better for long-term air quality.
How to Get Rid of New Carpet Smell Fast
The fastest and most effective solution is a professional steam cleaning. HydroClean’s IICRC-certified technicians use safe, non-toxic cleaning agents and hot water extraction to reduce VOCs while leaving your carpet soft, clean, and odor-free.
If your new carpet smell is keeping you from enjoying your home, don’t wait weeks for it to fade. Book a HydroClean cleaning today and replace that harsh chemical odor with a truly fresh carpet smell. For all things carpet cleaning in Colorado Springs, trust HydroClean to get the job done right.
