Hello everyone,
I have a KALLAX shelf from IKEA that I bought and assembled about 5 years ago. Recently, I noticed that it still emits quite a strong, unpleasant odor, which I don’t think is normal for a piece of furniture this old. It smells somewhat chemical, possibly due to the materials or finishes used. I have tried various methods (e.g., airing it out, cleaning with vinegar water), but the smell has only improved slightly.
Has anyone experienced long-lasting odors like this in KALLAX or similar IKEA shelves, and do you have any good tips on how to completely get rid of these smells? Which cleaning techniques or home remedies have worked for you? And could such a smell indicate the presence of harmful substances that should be taken seriously?
Thanks for any helpful advice!
I have a KALLAX shelf from IKEA that I bought and assembled about 5 years ago. Recently, I noticed that it still emits quite a strong, unpleasant odor, which I don’t think is normal for a piece of furniture this old. It smells somewhat chemical, possibly due to the materials or finishes used. I have tried various methods (e.g., airing it out, cleaning with vinegar water), but the smell has only improved slightly.
Has anyone experienced long-lasting odors like this in KALLAX or similar IKEA shelves, and do you have any good tips on how to completely get rid of these smells? Which cleaning techniques or home remedies have worked for you? And could such a smell indicate the presence of harmful substances that should be taken seriously?
Thanks for any helpful advice!
Rijelu schrieb:
It smells a bit chemical, maybe it’s the materials or finishes used.This is an important point. Many IKEA furniture pieces, including the KALLAX, are made from particleboard or medium-density fiberboard (MDF) bonded with synthetic resins. These can actually release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) even years after production, which could explain the smell.
However, you should also consider that storage conditions and the location in the room have an impact. High humidity or poor ventilation can intensify odors.
I have tried various things (e.g. airing out, cleaning with vinegar water)Vinegar works well against surface-level odors but is less effective against deep-seated or chemical emissions from wood-based panels. Have you perhaps tried activated charcoal or specialized odor absorbers? Increasing ventilation might also help.
In general, pollutant levels in furniture produced in Germany or the EU are usually strictly regulated. Still, odors often indicate off-gassing solvents or adhesives that should not be ignored—especially for sensitive individuals. A professional pollutant test could provide clarity.
I like to go into some detail here, as the issue of long-lasting odors from IKEA furniture is quite complex.
First: KALLAX is usually made of particleboard coated with melamine resin. While these coatings are water-resistant, the underlying board can retain residual moisture or volatile compounds if not properly dried during production, which may off-gas for years.
For odors that persist for several years, there are a few aspects to consider:
1. Cause of the odors: Not only production residues, but also storage conditions. For example, was the furniture stored for a long time in damp rooms? Mold or microorganisms can also cause odors.
2. Cleaning: Vinegar water is a common household remedy but often only provides superficial neutralization.
3. Deep cleaning: In my experience, solutions with special enzymatic cleaners that break down organic residues work better. Likewise, activated charcoal bags or zeolite granules can absorb odors sustainably.
4. Ventilation: Consistent and prolonged ventilation is extremely important. Warm air holds more moisture and helps accelerate off-gassing.
5. Sealing: Sometimes a thin layer of special furniture oils or silicone sprays can seal the pores and thus reduce odors.
6. Placement: If the shelf is placed directly against cold exterior walls, for example, moisture fluctuations can intensify odors.
Therefore, my question: What are the conditions regarding humidity and location in your case? Has it ever been fully aired out outside the room? And what about visible signs of mold or moisture stains?
If you like, I can put together a precise step-by-step cleaning guide with suitable product recommendations for you.
First: KALLAX is usually made of particleboard coated with melamine resin. While these coatings are water-resistant, the underlying board can retain residual moisture or volatile compounds if not properly dried during production, which may off-gas for years.
For odors that persist for several years, there are a few aspects to consider:
1. Cause of the odors: Not only production residues, but also storage conditions. For example, was the furniture stored for a long time in damp rooms? Mold or microorganisms can also cause odors.
2. Cleaning: Vinegar water is a common household remedy but often only provides superficial neutralization.
3. Deep cleaning: In my experience, solutions with special enzymatic cleaners that break down organic residues work better. Likewise, activated charcoal bags or zeolite granules can absorb odors sustainably.
4. Ventilation: Consistent and prolonged ventilation is extremely important. Warm air holds more moisture and helps accelerate off-gassing.
5. Sealing: Sometimes a thin layer of special furniture oils or silicone sprays can seal the pores and thus reduce odors.
6. Placement: If the shelf is placed directly against cold exterior walls, for example, moisture fluctuations can intensify odors.
Therefore, my question: What are the conditions regarding humidity and location in your case? Has it ever been fully aired out outside the room? And what about visible signs of mold or moisture stains?
If you like, I can put together a precise step-by-step cleaning guide with suitable product recommendations for you.
Gafiel schrieb:
Activated carbon bags or zeolite granules effectively adsorb odors.I recommend placing activated carbon sachets inside the compartments and regularly moving the shelf to a well-ventilated area. If possible, you should also leave it with the door open in the sunlight from time to time.
Usually, that’s enough cleaning. Especially for furniture odors, good air circulation combined with odor absorbers often suffices.
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