Airing out funiture

[SunnyTheConure]

I understand when buying new funiture you should air it out is this the same with tables and desks

 

[SailBoat]

That depends fully on whether it is made of plastic, metal or wood and regarding the last two, the stain or paint used and the type of seal coat used. The answer is from not a problem to a very serious problem. Let the labeling and your nose be your guide.

 

[noodles123]

particle board-types of furniture etc is a high producer of VOCs in many cases. Things with plastic or that aren't solid wood are often as well.
Matresses are one of the very worst offenders, as are couches, rugs, carpets etc...but other stuff can still off-gas.

I get antiques or vintage because they are made better, cost less and don't off-gas.

 

[SunnyTheConure]

It's most likely gonna be wood

 

[noodles123]

If it's solid wood (not some plastic or fiber board-- you know, the stuff that looks like wood, but it's actually not solid) you will have fewer issues, UNLESS they use a really strongly scented stain or sealant on it (and you may or may not be able to tell by looking/smelling..it is hard to say for sure..if you CAN smell it, beware).
I would also avoid cedar if it will be near your bird.

I can't say with certainly that there isn't some risk, but solid wood is safer in general, so if you have to choose between IKEA-style furniture and solid wood, go solid wood.

I am always a little cautious with anything brand-new-- especially if I can smell it, but even if I cannot.

Like I said, that's why I often buy used (vintage etc)

 

[noodles123]

Here's a good link: https://foobot.io/resources/off-gas...monly happening,system, and also a carcinogen.

Here's another: https://www.nontoxicliving.tips/blog/light-headed-or-foggy-but-don-t-know-why

Just remember, these were written with people in mind (not birds) and birds are more sensitive than humans to VOCs etc.

 

[SunnyTheConure]

If I was gonna buy it how long should I off gas a desk for cause online it says it takes 2 years.

 

[noodles123]

It does take a really long time for off-gassing stuff to off-gas. It depends on what you get-- a mattress can take years for sure- so could certain couches or paints etc.

Do you have a link to the desk?
Did you talk to the company about what it's made out of?

This all depends on what you get.
There are also companies that sell 0 voc stuff, but they tend to cost more.

Is it going to be in the same room with your bird?

Unless it's off-gassing a whole lot and in the same room etc, you will probably be fine as long as your general air quality is decent. Again, can't say for sure..It kind of depends on the product, but I imagine you can worry less if it's not a notoriously off-gassing piece of furniture and if it's mostly wood and you can't really smell it (especially if it's in a different part of the house) but can't say for sure. I am not saying it won't off-gas some...it probably will...and Obviously the fewer VOCs the better...but,do you know what I mean?
Don't quote me on that lol- I'm just saying that if you check on things and it seems safe-ish, you are likely okay as long as you consider all of the factors above.