How to Get Rid of the Smell of Polyurethane

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Fully removing the smell of polyurethane means evacuating the premises for a few days.

Polyurethane is a versatile polymer used in a variety of products such as foam, plastics, fibrous materials and adhesives. Polyurethane's merits include resistance to tears, load-bearing capacities and resistance to weather. But people often complain about its distinct, strong smell. Polyurethane is a commonly used to seal hardwood floors and is also used in some paints; if you are dealing with polyurethane odors in your home, there are a few methods you can use to remove the smell from the affected area.

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Step 1

Remove all pets, people and plants from the home. Close all windows so the home is airtight. Turn up the heat and let the polyurethane dry for a few days.

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Step 2

Install an ozone machine in the affected area and allow it to clean the air over a couple of days. Ozone is potentially dangerous to human health so this step should be taken only if no one is in the space.

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Step 3

Place several bowls in the affected room and fill them with water. Put half an onion in each dish, with the cut side facing up. Onions are one of the best natural ways to absorb unwanted smells. If you are gone for a few days, replace the onions with fresh ones each day.

Step 4

Open all the windows wide open and allow the affected area to air out fully. This will stimulate air flow and remove any remaining odors.

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