Household Odors and YOUR Health
Even new and recently remodeled homes can contain concentrations of unhealthy air.
What is that Smell?
Have you ever walked into a room and thought, “What’s that smell?” Maybe it’s a musty, damp odor lingering in the air. Or perhaps it’s the sharp, synthetic scent of a brand-new car or a fresh coat of paint. Whatever the case, when something doesn’t smell quite right, it’s often a sign that something deeper is going on.
Most of our clients reach out to us because of persistent musty or moldy smells in their homes or businesses. And guess what? Their instincts are usually right. Mold is one of the most common culprits of unpleasant odors, often lurking behind walls, under floors, or in HVAC systems where it thrives in moisture-rich environments. But mold isn’t the only offender—volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and formaldehyde can also be to blame, and they don’t always smell bad!
When a Bad Smell is More Than Just a Nuisance
Musty and damp odors almost always point to mold issues. If you notice a persistent smell, don’t ignore it. Mold can cause serious health problems, including respiratory issues, headaches, and allergic reactions. A proper air quality test can help identify if mold spores are present, giving you the information needed to take action.
When Good Smells Are Actually Toxic
Here’s the kicker: sometimes, the “good” smells people love are actually harmful toxins!
That “new car” smell? A mix of VOCs from plastics, adhesives, and upholstery treatments.
That new gym smell? High levels of off-gassing formaldehyde from rubber flooring and synthetic materials.
Those synthetic candles and air fresheners? Packed with VOCs that off-gas into your home’s air.
People have been conditioned to associate these smells with cleanliness and freshness, but in reality, they’re inhaling chemicals that can lead to dizziness, headaches, throat irritation, and long-term health issues.
Common Sources of VOC & Formaldehyde Off-Gassing
If you’re experiencing unexplained odors or health symptoms, you might be unknowingly surrounded by off-gassing products. Here’s a list of some of the biggest culprits:
Home Renovations & New Builds:
Freshly painted walls
New flooring (vinyl, laminate, carpet adhesives)
Furniture and cabinetry (especially pressed wood and MDF)
Insulation materials
Household Products & Everyday Items:
Synthetic candles & air fresheners
Cleaning supplies with added fragrances
Dry-cleaned clothing
Personal care products (perfumes, hair sprays, nail polish)
Office & Commercial Spaces:
New office furniture & cubicles
Printer and copier emissions
Carpeting & adhesives
Vehicles & Gyms:
New car interiors
Rubber gym flooring
Yoga mats made from synthetic materials
What Can You Do?
The good news? You don’t have to just live with these hidden toxins.
Here are some steps to improve your indoor air quality:
Get an air quality assessment – A professional IAQ test can detect mold spores, VOC levels, and formaldehyde in your environment.
Increase ventilation – Open windows, use exhaust fans, and invest in medical grade air purifiers with proven technology, such as Austin Air, Synexis, and Health
Choose low-VOC products – Opt for natural cleaning products, unscented candles, and formaldehyde-free furniture. (Link to EcoSafe EC3 products.)
Monitor humidity levels – Keep indoor humidity below 50% to prevent mold growth.
If something smells off, don’t ignore it! Whether it’s a musty mold issue or the sneaky presence of VOCs and Formaldehyde, being aware of what’s in your air is the first step toward a healthier home and workplace. At EcoSafe Environmental, we specialize in identifying and mitigating these hidden dangers, so you can breathe easier.
Need help figuring out what’s in your air?
Contact us today to schedule an indoor air quality assessment!
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