This is also one of the saddest aspects of retro computing.

Most listings fail to mention whether previous owners were smokers, and most sellers either aren't sensitive to and/or haven't experienced the off-gassing that occurs once devices warm up through actual use.

So this is actually the main reason I'm thrilled about the MiSTer project and the growing number and variety of FPGA-based clones being released today.

And some things like arcade machines, you often can't even get them in "no smoker" conditions as they've been installed in arcades, pubs and other venues where a lot of the attendees smoke.

I picked up a second hand gaming PC once: 9 months later our entire downstairs floor was still noticeably smelling of their fabric softener despite frequent airings. They’re like sponges.