The most common reason your wallpaper smells after hanging is the adhesive used during its application. This initial scent is a normal, temporary occurrence as the paste dries and cures.
The Primary Culprit: Wallpaper Adhesive
When wallpaper is applied, a special adhesive is used to bond it securely to the wall. This adhesive, once wet, begins a drying process that can release an odor into the air. It's a very common experience for most newly hung wallpapers to emit this distinct scent. Think of it like the "new car smell" or the odor from fresh paint; it's a byproduct of materials setting and drying.
Understanding the Temporary Scent
The smell you notice is primarily associated with the chemicals in the adhesive as they dry and cure. As the moisture evaporates from the paste, these airborne compounds become noticeable. Fortunately, this is not a permanent issue. The scent will naturally diminish and completely disappear as the adhesive fully dries and settles into its solid state.
How Long Will the Smell Last?
The duration of the wallpaper smell can vary based on several factors, but with proper conditions, it typically dissipates within a few days.
Factors that influence how quickly the smell disappears include:
- Type of Adhesive: Some adhesives might have a stronger or more persistent smell than others.
- Wallpaper Material: Certain wallpaper materials might take longer to fully dry or could trap odors more effectively.
- Room Conditions: This is the most significant factor you can control.
Solutions and Tips to Eliminate Wallpaper Odor
Ensuring good air circulation and a stable room temperature are key to making the smell disappear completely and quickly.
Here are practical steps to help expedite the process:
- Boost Ventilation:
- Open windows and doors: Create a cross-breeze to flush out stale air and bring in fresh air.
- Use fans: Place oscillating or box fans in the room to circulate air more effectively. Consider aiming a fan out a window to draw air out of the room.
- Run exhaust fans: If applicable, turn on bathroom or kitchen exhaust fans, especially if the wallpaper is in an adjacent area.
- Maintain an Equable Temperature:
- Keep the room warm and consistent: An even, moderate temperature helps the adhesive dry consistently. Avoid extreme fluctuations in temperature, which can slow down the drying process.
- Avoid excessive humidity: High humidity can significantly prolong drying times, so if you live in a humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier.
- Patience: Remember that the smell is temporary. Give it a few days with good ventilation and stable temperatures, and it should naturally fade away.
Quick Actions to Disperse Odors
| Action | Benefit to Odor Elimination |
|---|---|
| Open Windows & Doors | Rapidly exchanges indoor air with fresh outdoor air. |
| Use Room Fans | Actively circulates air, speeding up adhesive drying and odor dispersal. |
| Maintain Consistent Temp. | Ensures the adhesive dries uniformly and efficiently. |
When to Be Concerned
While the adhesive smell is normal, if the odor persists for weeks, changes to a musty or moldy smell, or is accompanied by visual signs of dampness or discoloration on the wallpaper, it could indicate a more serious issue such as mold or moisture problems behind the wallpaper. In such cases, further investigation by a professional might be warranted.
