Question aboout the smell of new wood?

Is it wood you're smelling or the type of finish that's on it? All stains, varnishes, lacquers, and most kinds of paint can have a strong odor when fresh and may need time to cure. Even water based products can be pretty smelly, though they're a lot less dangerous than solvent based paints and finishes. If it's a chemical smell, then it's probably just the stain or clear coat and needs a couple of days to finish drying.

But if it's raw wood without any finish or paint on it, then it's probably okay to sleep in it unless you have a rare allergy or sensitivity to a specific type of tree. Some people are bothered by the odor of some kinds of lumber like Cedar, but most like the way freshly cut and milled boards smell.

If you have adequate ventilation you'll probably be okay, but if you notice any kind of trouble breathing or rash developing, obviously you should stay out of the room for a few days. If you have any type of respiratory problem you'd be best served by erring on the side of caution, but if you're in good health, and your uncle didn't use pressure treated or an exotic species of lumber, you should be just fine.

-Has the Wood been "Finished" ( Stained, or Varnished ) any ?? If it HAS, You're Mother is Right. If it HASN'T (& is just raw Wood)- you have nothing to worry about. Because plain, Unfinished Wood smell- is completely Harmless ( & Smells kinda Good- if You Ask Me ). :)