The Hidden Danger of Outgassing: What You Need to Know About VOCs

October 09, 2025By Nona Woman

Have you ever noticed that “new car smell” or the scent of fresh paint or a brand-new mattress? While these odors might seem harmless—or even pleasant—they are actually signs of outgassing, also known as off-gassing. This process releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, which can have significant effects on both indoor air quality and human health.

What Is Outgassing?

Outgassing refers to the release of chemical vapors or gases from solid or liquid materials. Many manufactured products contain synthetic chemicals that gradually evaporate into the air at room temperature. These chemicals—collectively known as VOCs—include substances such as formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, and acetone.

VOCs are found in a wide range of common household items, such as:

Furniture and carpets (due to adhesives and finishes)
Paints, varnishes, and cleaning agents
Mattresses and pillows made from memory foam or polyurethane
Electronics and plastics

While outgassing levels are typically highest when an item is new, they can continue for months or even years, especially in poorly ventilated environments.

Health Effects of VOC Exposure

Exposure to VOCs can cause both short-term and long-term health problems. According to the EPA and the World Health Organization, short-term exposure can result in:

Headaches
Dizziness and fatigue
Eye, nose, and throat irritation
Nausea or allergic reactions

Prolonged exposure or higher concentrations of VOCs have been associated with liver and kidney damage, respiratory problems, and even increased cancer risk—particularly from formaldehyde and benzene. Children, pregnant women, and individuals with asthma or chemical sensitivities are especially vulnerable.

How to Reduce VOC Exposure at Home

The good news is that there are several ways to minimize outgassing and protect your indoor air quality:

Choose low-VOC or VOC-free products – Many paint, flooring, and furniture manufacturers now offer eco-friendly alternatives certified by organizations such as GreenGuard or EcoLabel.
Ventilate regularly – Open windows, use fans, or run air purifiers equipped with activated carbon filters, which are effective at trapping VOC molecules.
Allow products to “air out” – When buying new furniture or mattresses, let them off-gas in a garage or well-ventilated space for a few days before bringing them indoors.
Use natural materials – Opt for solid wood furniture, organic fabrics, and natural cleaning products when possible.

Simple lifestyle adjustments—such as bringing in houseplants or maintaining healthy humidity levels—can also help improve overall air quality.

Why Awareness Matters

We spend up to 90% of our time indoors, meaning indoor air quality plays a crucial role in our long-term health. Understanding outgassing helps us make more informed decisions about the products we buy and how we maintain our homes.

While VOCs are invisible, their effects are very real—and awareness is the first step toward creating a healthier, safer environment for ourselves and our families.

References:

Salthammer, T., Mentese, S., & Marutzky, R. (2018). Formaldehyde in the indoor environment. Chemical Reviews, 110(4), 2536–2572. https://doi.org/10.1021/cr800399g
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2022). Volatile organic compounds’ impact on indoor air quality.https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/volatile-organic-compounds-impact-indoor-air-quality
World Health Organization. (2021). WHO guidelines for indoor air quality: Selected pollutants.https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240021280