The Lab
Specimen No. 0100
AvoidSynthetichousehold chemicalsolvent

VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)

vocs · volatile organic compounds · off-gassing

VOCs off-gas from paints, furniture, flooring, and adhesives into indoor air. EPA data shows indoor air can be 2-5× more polluted with VOCs than outdoor air.

high confidence
Researched April 18, 2026

Concerns

  • Formaldehyde (IARC Group 1 carcinogen) off-gases from particleboard, MDF, and some insulation
  • Benzene (IARC Group 1) from attached garages, tobacco smoke, and some building materials
  • EPA lists VOCs as a leading contributor to poor indoor air quality
  • Symptoms: headache, nausea, eye/nose/throat irritation; long-term: liver, kidney, CNS effects

Regulatory flags

  • Benzene (a VOC): IARC Group 1 carcinogen
  • EPA regulates indoor VOC concentrations

Commonly found in

PaintVarnishNew furnitureFlooring adhesiveCleaning spraysAir fresheners

Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.

Check another ingredient

Search our database of scored cosmetic, food, and household ingredients — or scan a full product label.

Open the Ingredient Lab

Embed this verdict

LabelCleared verdict badge: VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) — Avoid
<a href="https://labelcleared.com/lab/vocs"><img src="https://labelcleared.com/embed/vocs/badge.svg" alt="LabelCleared verdict badge: VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) — Avoid" height="34"></a>