This blew me away

[punchumgum]

A friend has a lovely computer chair, it was a gift from a family member. It looks like leather but I don't know what it's made from, it's obviously something chemical. She's had to put it outside twice so far because it gets a strong chemical smell like motor vehicle exhaust after it has been in front of the computer for a couple of months. I smelled it a month ago when she last put it out on the porch (the smell made me cough) and coincidentally I smelled it again this Easter when she brought it back inside (with no smell at all). This happens all the time. Extraordinary.

[evewisewoman]

I agree with you allmymarbles. I think the coating on the leather chair is
toxic.

[evewisewoman]

Hello punchumgum,

Personally, I would get rid of this chair. Some leather is treated with strong
chemicals that may be toxic to inhale. If your friend has to keep putting it outside to get rid of the smell, to me that's a sign. If in doubt, throw it out.
That's the rule in our house. That applies to food as well. You say it was
a gift from a family member. She could tell the family member that she
was concerned the smell could be toxic and dangerous to herself and
her family. If a smell makes you cough, that's not good. My advice, get
rid of this chair. The family member who gave it to her will understand
if this is an issue. Hope this suggestion helps.

[allmymarbles]

Whatever it is, it sounds toxic.