That New Home Smell: What Homebuyers Should Know About Indoor Air Quality

WHAT TO KNOW

That “new home smell” can come from VOCs released by paints, flooring, cabinets and furnishings.
New construction doesn’t automatically mean better indoor air — ask about materials and ventilation.
Pets spend time close to floors and surfaces, and some houseplants are toxic to them.

New flooring. Fresh paint. Updated cabinets. Everything looks clean, bright, and ready for a new beginning.

And then there's that unmistakable "new home smell."

But have you ever wondered what you're actually smelling?

Sometimes, those odors come from chemicals released by paints, flooring, adhesives, furniture, and other building materials.

Before you fall in love with that freshly renovated kitchen or brand-new carpet, here's something worth understanding.

What Are VOCs?

Volatile organic compounds, commonly called VOCs, are chemicals that can be released into the air from certain products and materials.

Common household sources include:

Paints, stains, and finishes

Carpeting and some flooring products

Adhesives and sealants

Cabinets and manufactured wood products

Cleaning supplies and air fresheners

Some new furniture and furnishings

Not all VOCs have the same health effects, and the presence of an odor doesn't automatically mean something is dangerous.

However, exposure to certain VOCs can cause eye, nose, or throat irritation, headaches, and other symptoms. Some compounds are associated with more serious health risks, depending on the substance and exposure.

And here's something else to remember: A product doesn't have to smell strong to release chemicals into the air.

Does New Construction Mean Better Indoor Air Quality?

Not necessarily.

New homes may feature modern ventilation systems, energy-efficient construction, and updated building materials.

But new construction and remodeling can also introduce multiple sources of chemical emissions at the same time.

Fresh paint, newly installed flooring, cabinetry, and adhesives may all contribute to indoor air pollution.

That doesn't mean you should avoid new construction or renovated properties.

It simply means indoor air quality deserves some attention, just like the roof, plumbing, electrical systems, and other features you evaluate when buying a home.

What Can Homebuyers Do?

The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to make more informed decisions.

1. Ask About Building Materials

If you're buying new construction or planning renovations, ask the builder or contractor about the products being used.

You might want to discuss low-emission paints, flooring, adhesives, and cabinetry.

Look for credible third-party product certifications where appropriate, and remember that a "low-VOC" label doesn't necessarily mean a product is free of all potentially harmful emissions.

2. Pay Attention to Ventilation

Proper ventilation can help reduce the concentration of some indoor pollutants.

If outdoor air quality is good, opening windows may help increase fresh-air circulation.

Mechanical ventilation systems can also play an important role.

However, opening windows isn't always advisable during wildfire smoke events, periods of poor outdoor air quality, or other conditions when outdoor pollutants could enter your home.

3. Follow Product Instructions

If you're painting, installing flooring, or completing other renovations, follow the manufacturer's instructions for application, ventilation, curing, and occupancy.

Some products require specific ventilation conditions or waiting periods.

Don't assume that an odor disappearing means all emissions have stopped.

4. Be Careful With Air Purifier Claims

Air purifiers aren't all designed to remove the same pollutants.

HEPA filters are effective for many airborne particles, but they don't remove gases and VOCs on their own.

Certain activated-carbon or other specialized filters may help reduce some gaseous pollutants, depending on their design and capacity.

If indoor air quality is a significant concern, consult a qualified professional rather than relying solely on a product's advertising claims.

What About Your Pets?

Our four-legged family members share the same indoor environment we do.

Dogs and cats may spend considerable time close to flooring, carpets, and household surfaces, so it's reasonable to consider their exposure when choosing products or renovating.

Keep pets away from active painting, flooring installation, and other work areas, and follow product safety instructions before allowing them back into the space.

If your pet develops unusual symptoms after exposure to a household product, contact your veterinarian.

A Little Greenery Never Hurts!

Love houseplants? You're in good company!

Research has shown that certain houseplants can absorb some airborne pollutants, including VOCs, under controlled laboratory conditions. However, studies have also found that a few potted plants won't make a significant difference to indoor air quality in a typical home.

That doesn't mean you should skip the greenery!

Houseplants can make a home feel more welcoming, bring a little nature indoors, and add personality to your space.

And if you share your home with dogs or cats, here are a few pet-friendly options worth considering:

Spider Plant: Easy to grow, adaptable, and perfect for hanging planters.

Boston Fern: Adds lush greenery and thrives in humid environments with consistently moist soil.

Calathea (Prayer Plant): Known for its beautiful patterned leaves and preference for indirect light.

Parlor Palm: A classic indoor palm that adds a tropical touch without taking over the room.

These plants are generally considered non-toxic to dogs and cats, although chewing on any plant can still cause stomach upset. Always verify the exact plant species before bringing it home.

And remember, while plants can be a wonderful addition to your space, proper ventilation and choosing lower-emission materials are much more effective ways to address indoor air pollution.

Renee's Advice

As The Rescue Dog Realtor®, I care about helping buyers find homes that work for everyone in the household, including the four-legged members.

That means looking beyond beautiful finishes and asking practical questions about the property's condition, materials, and features.

I'm not an indoor air quality specialist, and I won't pretend to be one.

But I can help you identify questions to ask your builder, seller, or contractor and encourage you to consult qualified professionals when additional information is needed.

Because a beautiful home should be more than something that looks good in photographs.

It should be a place where you feel comfortable settling in.

Thinking about buying a home in Orange County? Let's talk about what matters most to you, beyond the listing photos.