Off-gassing is a process where airborne chemicals are released from solid or liquid materials, often recognized by the distinct “new product smell” of items like fresh paint or new furniture. This release is a form of indoor air pollution, which concerns many parents because infants spend a large amount of time indoors. The potential danger depends heavily on the specific chemicals released and their concentration. When the source is a new product in a confined space, the concentration of these chemicals can rise significantly higher than outdoor levels, posing a health risk to infants.
Defining Volatile Organic Compounds
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are the primary components of off-gassing. These organic chemicals readily turn into gases at typical room temperature and are byproducts of manufacturing processes, often used as solvents or adhesives in household goods. Once a product is brought indoors, these chemicals evaporate and mix with the air.
The specific chemical composition varies widely, but common examples include benzene, toluene, and formaldehyde. While some VOCs dissipate quickly, others can continue to emit for extended periods. Emissions are typically highest when a product is brand new, dropping sharply in the first few days or weeks.
Certain materials can release VOCs for months or even years at low levels. For instance, paint VOCs can linger for up to six months. Composite wood products, which rely on chemical resins and glues, may continue to emit trace amounts for much longer periods, constantly affecting indoor air quality.
Why Infants Face Greater Risk
Infants are disproportionately vulnerable to VOC exposure due to physiological and environmental factors. Their bodies are still developing rapidly, making them highly susceptible to environmental toxins. Since their respiratory and nervous systems are not fully developed, they are less equipped to process or detoxify chemical exposure.
A key factor is the infant’s respiratory rate, which is significantly higher than an adult’s relative to body weight. A baby breathes in two to three times more air per pound of body weight than an adult. This means they inhale a greater volume of airborne VOCs, elevating the chemical dose delivered to the developing body.
Infants also spend most of their time close to the floor, where heavier VOCs and semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) tend to settle. This proximity places them directly in the path of concentrated emissions from carpets, flooring, and low-sitting furniture. Their exploratory behavior, such as hand-to-mouth activity, further increases potential exposure to settled chemical residue on surfaces.
Identifying Common Sources in the Nursery
The newly furnished nursery often contains several products that are common sources of off-gassing, contributing to elevated indoor VOC levels. Many pieces of furniture, such as cribs and dressers, are constructed from pressed wood products like particleboard or medium-density fiberboard (MDF). These materials use adhesives that frequently contain formaldehyde, which is consistently off-gassed into the air. New carpets, rugs, and installation glues can also release a variety of VOCs, especially immediately after they are laid down.
Sleep surfaces are a particular focus because infants spend many hours resting in their cribs. Conventional crib mattresses made from polyurethane foam and their waterproof vinyl coatings can emit VOCs and semi-volatile compounds. These materials may also contain chemical flame retardants that slowly off-gas over the product’s lifespan. Due to the constant, close proximity to the mattress surface, inhalation exposure can be significant.
Smaller items also contribute to the chemical load in the air. This includes plastics used in changing pads, bath toys, and storage containers, which release chemicals used for flexibility and durability. New textiles, such as clothing, bedding, and window treatments, may contain VOCs from dyes, finishes, or stain-resistant treatments.
Finally, common household and personal care products introduce high concentrations of VOCs into the nursery. Air fresheners, scented candles, and harsh cleaning agents are formulated with chemicals that vaporize quickly. Using these products in or near the baby’s room creates immediate spikes in VOC levels that affect air quality.
Strategies for Minimizing Exposure
Parents can take several practical steps to reduce an infant’s exposure to off-gassing chemicals. Maximizing ventilation is one of the most effective strategies, particularly when introducing new products or completing renovations. Opening windows and using exhaust fans helps to dilute and remove airborne VOCs, preventing them from accumulating indoors.
A primary practice involves “off-gassing” new items before they are placed in the nursery. Products like furniture, mattresses, and plastic toys should be unwrapped and allowed to air out in a well-ventilated space, such as a garage or porch, for several days or weeks. This allows the initial, highest burst of chemical emissions to dissipate safely outside the home.
When purchasing new items, choosing certified low-VOC or zero-VOC products can significantly reduce off-gassing potential. Look for third-party certifications, such as GREENGUARD Gold, which verify that products meet stringent chemical emission standards for use with children. This applies to paints, flooring, and furniture finishes.
Selecting materials composed of solid wood or natural fibers over composite or synthetic options can also lower chemical exposure. Solid wood furniture avoids the formaldehyde-based adhesives found in pressed wood. Additionally, utilizing an air purifier equipped with an activated carbon filter can help capture gaseous VOCs that a standard HEPA filter cannot trap.