Does that unmistakable "new rug smell" or "new car smell" make you woozy? That's because the smell is actually caused by offgassing-the release of a gas or vapor into the air during the process of aging, evaporating, or decomposing. Many building materials, types of flooring, plastics, furnishings, paints, and clothing finishes offgas (or outgas) potentially hazardous chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The health risks can range from temporary eye irritation to organ damage. Offgassing abates as time goes on, and you can minimize your exposure to offgassed chemicals by purchasing products marked no-VOC or low-VOC, and by airing out newly painted or carpeted rooms for a few days before settling in.

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