My new Neoprene waterproof seat covers have a smell, what should I do?
The smell is neoprene, the same material as in a wetsuit, drink koozie or protective laptop case. You may notice this "out of the box odor" on all of these products and will dissipate over time.
Suggestions for Removing Rubber Scent from New Products
When a product made with neoprene is first opened, it is normal that an odor will emit. This is because it is packaged, thus encapsulating the freshly made item and its scent. Sometimes this emission is referred to as outgassing. For example, a new car consists of outgassed products, as they are released by heat inside a closed automobile. Even a nearly odorless, completely natural material, such as wood, may build up a strong smell if kept in closed packaging for any length of time. Most people do not object to the scent of neoprene, however some find the odor bothersome and wonder how they can minimize the chemical smell.
Though the smell will eventually dissipate with time, naturally, there are options for speeding up the process:
1. Fresh air and open space. Placing the item outside for 1-2 days will reduce the potency of the aroma. As an alternative to placing it outside, you can keep it within a garage or storage place until the smell lessens outside of its packaging to help it diffuse its odor.
2. The UV rays of the sun go to work in neutralizing much of the odors. Place the cover outside in direct sunlight for 2 hours, rotate to ensure that the entire surface receives exposure. Be careful not to leave the item in the sun too long, as this can weaken the material
3. Fill a large bucket with water and add 1/2 cup of vinegar. Allow item to sit within formula for 1 hour, remove from water & air dry. Vinegar will have neutralized much of the exterior rubber odor.
4. Peppermint oil does a fantastic job at masking odor within the short-term. Apply some peppermint oil to a dampened cloth and proceed to wipe down the surface of the seat cover.
Please enjoy your waterproof seat covers for many years to come.
Mahalo,