How to Expedite Formaldehyde Offgassing on Carpets

Keep the windows throughout the house open during carpet installation. Off-gassing starts when the carpeting gets unwrapped and acclimates to the ambient room temperature. Ventilation during installation reduces the concentration of formaldehyde released from the carpet.

Vacuum the carpet within the first week after installation. Wear a dust mask, keep the windows open and place fans around the home as well while vacuuming. The suction action of the vacuum helps "speed up" the off-gassing, but the added ventilation and air flow moves the concentrations of the gas to the outdoors.

Run a dehumidifier for three to five weeks after carpet installation. The lower humidity weakens the concentration of formaldehyde gas during the first weeks after installation.

Keep the temperature in the house low to create a cool, dry internal climate while running the dehumidifier. This further reduces concentrations of formaldehyde within the home and speeds the off-gassing process.

Run floor and ceiling fans with the windows open at regular intervals for the next several weeks. The off-gassing process lasts only a few weeks. The continuation of a higher rate of air exchange for an extended period prevents the carpet from absorbing off-gassed formaldehyde from other sources such as fresh paint, new furniture or vinyl products. This preventative action expedites the entire off-gassing process.

Maintain the carpet through regular vacuuming and cleanings. When having the carpet cleaned, employ the same precautions used to reduce exposure to off-gassing. This reduces the effects of volatile organic compounds present after chemical cleanings.