What is Off gassing (Out gassing)? Why do we need it? How do we do it?

Off gassing is a general term that is used to describe the release of odors and other gases that you may be sensitive to.

There are generally two situations where off gassing can occur.

1 -- off gassing of products that can eventually be tolerated because the gases dissipate.

2 -- off gassing of products that due to the chemical composition and your sensitivities, can never be tolerated because the gases continue to be emitted.

I will be focusing primarily on the first situation here.

Almost all the products that we buy whether they are new or old, has manufacturing residues and absorbed odors and or chemicals before they get to you. Sometimes, it is simply the fact that it was touched by someone who had lotion, perfume or other chemicals that you are unable to tolerate.

Off Gassing Electronic Products

Almost all products that run on electrical power off gas to some degree. If it has an electric motor, the wires are usually coated with insulation varnish. Other components also have similar issues. The quality of the materials and type of varnish and other components as well as the internal temperature level can determine why you can tolerate some but not others. – Usually just running the unit 24/7 in an unoccupied and ventilated area for hours to weeks can eliminate the problem. This can often be speeded up by wiping down the unit with a detergent that you can tolerate and does not damage the unit. In many cases directing a box fan to increase airflow over the unit can also help.

Off Gassing NON-Electronic Products

Examples are simply a household item such as a chair or basket. Simply blowing air over it after wiping down can make it tolerable. Note that this can take anywhere from hours to months.

Off Gassing Fabrics and Clothes

Almost all clothes and fabrics need to be washed several times before the scents and chemicals become tolerable to sensitive people. This usually applies to both new and items obtained from thrift stores or other pre-used sources. Cotton unfortunately is sometimes the worst to off gas because it is so absorbent. There are 3 ways to reduce the wastage on water and energy and reduce the number of times the item needs to be washed.

1) Blow air over it with a box fan – this can take days to weeks but is ideal for colored items.

2) White fabrics that can tolerate bleach. Chlorine bleach I have found is quite effective at removing scents and can break down tough substances like the waxy scented softener. However, it usually takes many rinses and washes to remove the chlorine. Our vitamin C bath tablets work extremely well to neutralize the chlorine. One or 2 tablets for one or 2 washes can reduce the number of chlorine elimination washes by over ½.

3) Pre-soak in baking soda – I have not personally tested this yet but I have been told that an overnight soak in water that has baking soda can eliminate much if not all of the odors.

Good luck and remember YMMV (your mileage may vary) this means that different people may get different results depending on their condition. Read our disclaimer.