Wok lacquer fumes

[CatCaretaker]

Hi, I guess I'm looking for some reassurance after doing something really stupid. 15 weeks today, for context.

We bought a new carbon steel wok yesterday that came with a protective lacquer coating. The instructions said to burn it off, and, without thinking, I started to do that. Had extractor fan on and window open, but there were still a lot of fumes. I got concerned after a while and asked DP to take over, and I left the room. He did a little more, and then gave up because it was producing so much smoke and wasn't working well.

Anyway, I got on to the company and asked what the lacquer is and how dangerous it is, and they said that it is food safe, but that fumes are always dangerous - like stripping paint - and should always be minimised.

Now I'm really worried. What harm could I have done to baby?

Hey OP. I know it’s easier said than done but try not to panic. You were only exposed to it for a short while so no harm would have been done. I’ve stupidly cleaned with bleach during my pregnancy (now wear a mask) and my partner spray painted our windows to which I inhaled fumes (as briefly as you must have). You had the room ventilated too. Things like this I think only effect the baby and yourself if it’s excessive and repetitive exposure x

Thanks @AimeeLou84 I'm being so careful about everything I do, and then I go and do something really stupid like that. I'm so annoyed at myself.

Honestly I know what you mean. I’ve had anxiety so bad during my pregnancy trying to do everything right and keep making silly mistakes that cause me no end of google searches 🫣

Oh, the Google searches! DP is being very patient but he must think I'm losing my mind.