Ikea Couch Smells Like Chemicals
Ikea has taken a number of steps to reduce outgassing and produce environmentally friendly furniture; nevertheless, a new Ikea couch can still produce powerful odors. While Ikea has reduced the amount of noxious chemicals it uses in its products, the cardboard boxes most items are stored in are routinely treated with binding agents to help the package retain its shape during shipping. Cushions and upholstery can absorb the chemicals from the packaging; consequently, a new sofa may release foul-smelling fumes for several weeks while the compounds disintegrate.