Why Does My Rug Have a Strong Smell and How to Fix It
By Ruggable | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: How-to Guides
Learn why your new or flatwoven rug might have a chemical or musty odor, and follow a simple diagnosis to remove the smell quickly and safely.
Quick Answer
A strong smell from a new rug is usually temporary off-gassing from manufacturing or trapped moisture. Most odors can be fixed with airing, baking soda, or a machine wash if the rug is washable.
Why Do New Rugs Smell?
New rugs often have a chemical or "new rug" odor because of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from dyes, adhesives, or synthetic backing. This is normal and usually fades within a few days to a week with proper ventilation.
Flatwoven rugs, including those from Ruggable, are made with synthetic fibers and latex backing that can trap odors if rolled tightly in packaging. The smell is not a sign of damage or poor quality—it's a predictable part of the unboxing process.
When the Smell Is Not Normal
If the odor is musty, sour, or smells like mildew, the rug may have been exposed to moisture during storage or shipping. This is different from the typical chemical smell and requires different treatment—drying and cleaning rather than just airing out.
A persistent chemical smell after several days of airing may indicate a more intense off-gassing. In rare cases, the rug may need a full wash or return if the odor does not improve.
Diagnosis: Identify and Fix the Smell
- Symptom: A chemical, plastic-like, or "new rug" smell when you unroll the rug.
- Likely Cause: Off-gassing of VOCs from manufacturing and packaging. This is temporary and harmless.
- Corrective Action: Unroll the rug in a well-ventilated room (or outdoors if weather permits). Let it air for 24-48 hours. If the smell persists, sprinkle baking soda over the surface, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum. For machine-washable rugs like the Ava Ikat Green, wash on a gentle cycle with mild detergent and air dry completely. If the smell is gone after airing or washing, the issue is resolved.
- When to Stop or Choose Another Option: If the smell is musty or mildew-like, wash the rug immediately. If the chemical smell remains after washing and thorough drying, or if you have respiratory sensitivity, contact the manufacturer for a return or replacement. Do not use fabric softeners or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the rug's backing.
Product Facts
- Ava Ikat Green Flatwoven Rug by Mrs. Alice: This flatwoven rug is water-resistant, stain-resistant, and machine-washable. Machine-washable rugs can be cleaned directly to remove trapped odors, making them easier to freshen than non-washable alternatives.
Ava Ikat Green Flatwoven Rug by Mrs. Alice
