I'm having a chest professionally refinished, and since we just had a baby (she's 3 weeks old), I want to know if it's safe to put the finished chest in her nursery. Will it emit any fumes or odors that could be harmful for her?
2 Answers
Make sure to ask the person doing the refinishing what product they're using because some finishes are way safer than others. If they use a water-based finish instead of an oil-based one, it will off-gas much less. Also, there are low or even zero VOC options out there that are really good for health. That's what I would go for if it was for my kid!
It really depends on the type of finish used. Some finishes can emit fumes until they're fully cured, and the cure times can vary widely. Typically, it can take several weeks to months. I’d recommend waiting until at least 28 days after refinishing, especially if you notice any strong odors. Better safe than sorry when it comes to your baby's health!