ᐅ Storing Kallax Styrofoam Packaging – Does It Stop the Chemical Smell?

Hello everyone,

I recently bought a Kallax shelf unit from Ikea and noticed that the polystyrene packaging it comes in has quite a strong chemical smell. Since the odor is quite persistent, I’m wondering if simply storing the packaging for a longer time helps to reduce or completely eliminate the chemical smell?

Or could it be that the packaging material itself releases these odors and that they won’t disappear even after storage?

I’m looking forward to hearing your experiences and tips on whether and how to manage the odor issue with Kallax polystyrene packaging.

The smell comes from the polystyrene itself, usually from additives or adhesives. Storage only helps to a limited extent; fresh air speeds up the process.

Styrofoam packaging often contains flame retardants or plasticizers that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These volatile substances cause a chemical odor.

Storing the packaging in well-ventilated areas can reduce the concentration of these gases because of air exchange. However, the substances do not completely disappear as long as they continue to off-gas from the material.

If the goal is to use the shelf indoors without unpleasant odors, the packaging should be stored as far away as possible or kept outside. Alternatively, the Styrofoam packaging can be disposed of once the shelf is assembled to avoid retaining the odor inside the home.

Luchen schrieb:
The smell comes from the polystyrene itself, usually from additives or adhesives. Storing it only helps to some extent; fresh air speeds up the process.

Thank you for the information.

I am particularly interested in whether you have experience with how long such a storage process takes at a minimum until the odor becomes noticeably weaker. Are we talking about days, weeks, or months?

Also, are there any specific tips on how to make the polystyrene as odor-free as possible without having to throw it away immediately?

The smell usually fades after a few weeks of airing. Warmth and air circulation help speed up this process.

I once had a similar problem – my Kallax was also wrapped in something that smelled very strong :-)

Tip 1: Place the packaging in a well-ventilated, warm area, for example on the balcony or in the garage, as long as it’s not too humid. Fresh air works wonders.

Tip 2: Sometimes it helps to wrap the polystyrene waste in newspaper or a cotton cloth – this absorbs excess substances better or at least makes them less noticeable.

Of course, this is more of a temporary trick, and eventually you should just dispose of it. But if you really want to reduce the smell, only time and good ventilation will help. 🙂