Vaping in a room can leave a slight odour, although less pungent than the harshness of cigarette smoke. Vaping vaporises e-liquid at a lower temperature than cigarettes burn, resulting in a smell that, while less intense, does not linger as traditional cigarette smoke does.

Over time, accumulation of residue from cigarettes, vapes, incense, or cannabis permeates walls, carpets, curtains, upholstery, and other absorbent materials. Off-gassing deposits lead to yellowing of surfaces and a lingering stale smell.

Vaping can leave residue on your walls since it attracts dirt, particularly if the vapour contains high vegetable glycerin (VG) levels. Since VG is a thick, viscous liquid, it easily sticks onto walls, leaving behind a sticky residue that can trap airborne particles, causing staining over time.

How long does secondhand vape stay in the air? According to the American Thoracic Society, harmful chemicals from vaping may stay in the air long after people stop vaping. According to a 2021 study , exhaled vape particles can persist in the air and mix with the environment indoors.