Thirdhand smoke' may last longer than you think, damage your health Smoke and vape residue stays on surfaces like clothing, furniture, stuffed animals, and car seats for years after smoke has cleared. Learn more about the risks of thirdhand smoke at Vaping Indoors and How it Contributes to Sick Home Syndrome Bactronix Even after a cigarette is extinguished, nicotine and other chemicals react with indoor pollutants to form a hazardous film known as thirdhand smoke. This residue re emits harmful gases back into the environment. Does Vape Smoke Stick to Walls? Velvet Cloud