ᐅ The Kallax shelf still has a strange odor after several years – has anyone else experienced this?
Created on: 13 Mar 2024 08:27
G
GEKEO
Hello everyone,
I have an IKEA Kallax shelving unit that I bought about 5 years ago. Lately, I’ve noticed a strange smell that seems somewhat "artificial" and reminiscent of chemicals. The odor mainly comes from the compartments, even though I regularly wipe the unit and don’t store anything inside that could cause the smell.
Has anyone experienced that a Kallax unit can still emit odors of wood preservatives, formaldehyde, or other harmful substances even after several years? Are there any ways to permanently get rid of this smell? I’m especially interested in whether the material itself can be a source of emissions that remain active for a long time.
Thanks in advance for your insights and tips.
I have an IKEA Kallax shelving unit that I bought about 5 years ago. Lately, I’ve noticed a strange smell that seems somewhat "artificial" and reminiscent of chemicals. The odor mainly comes from the compartments, even though I regularly wipe the unit and don’t store anything inside that could cause the smell.
Has anyone experienced that a Kallax unit can still emit odors of wood preservatives, formaldehyde, or other harmful substances even after several years? Are there any ways to permanently get rid of this smell? I’m especially interested in whether the material itself can be a source of emissions that remain active for a long time.
Thanks in advance for your insights and tips.
TEOZAR schrieb:
Another method is placing activated charcoal or birch tar charcoal in the shelves.I fully agree with that! I once had trouble with an old cabinet that smelled very “chemical,” and activated charcoal really worked wonders! Just put it in small bags and leave them inside for a few weeks. Great tip! 🙂
By the way, if you’re up for it, you can also sprinkle baking soda on the shelves, let it sit for a few hours, and then vacuum it up. That really helps with many odors!
GEKEO schrieb:
I am particularly interested in whether the material can be a source of emissions that remain active even after a long time.Particle boards with synthetic resin coatings can emit VOCs, that is clear. However, significant emissions are unlikely after 5 years.
Another possibility is that odors originate from the surroundings or stored items, or that moisture has accumulated inside, which can cause microbial odors.
Identifying the exact source of the smell is very challenging. Alternatively, indoor air quality testing can help to detect contaminants.
A systematic approach is recommended:
1. Completely empty the shelving unit and thoroughly clean all surfaces.
2. Air out the room for several days with the window open and activated charcoal present.
3. Check the hygrometer reading to rule out moisture.
4. If the odor persists, applying a post-construction sealant with non-toxic products can help.
While this will not entirely eliminate the potential odor source, it can reduce the off-gassing.
1. Completely empty the shelving unit and thoroughly clean all surfaces.
2. Air out the room for several days with the window open and activated charcoal present.
3. Check the hygrometer reading to rule out moisture.
4. If the odor persists, applying a post-construction sealant with non-toxic products can help.
While this will not entirely eliminate the potential odor source, it can reduce the off-gassing.
Paxton38 schrieb:
If the odor persists, a subsequent sealing with non-toxic products can help.That sounds interesting, thank you! Specifically, I’m wondering if anyone knows of or has used a product that is safe, odorless, and effective over the long term. I want to keep using the shelf rather than having to replace it.
It would also be ideal if it’s relatively easy to apply. Maybe I haven’t researched enough, and there are actually sealants or impregnations designed for exactly these cases that permanently lock in VOC emissions.
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