Does a new car contain formaldehyde?
2 Answers
Purchased new cars do contain formaldehyde. Here are some methods to remove formaldehyde from a new car: 1. Remove plastic wraps promptly: After buying a new car, do not delay in removing the interior plastic packaging to maintain its freshness. Remove it as soon as possible to allow harmful gases to dissipate quickly. 2. Ventilate by opening windows: Before starting the car each time, open the windows to ventilate, or leave a small gap in the windows when parking to maintain ventilation inside the car. This can effectively reduce the concentration of harmful gases and odors inside the car. 3. Place activated charcoal: Activated charcoal is internationally recognized as an excellent absorber of toxins. It can not only adsorb harmful gases such as formaldehyde and benzene but also deodorize, prevent mold, and kill bacteria. 4. Photocatalytic removal method: Photocatalysts are high-quality products for removing formaldehyde. They are a general term for photocatalytic semiconductor materials represented by nano-sized titanium dioxide. Under ultraviolet light, they can decompose harmful substances such as formaldehyde in the air into harmless substances like carbon dioxide and water.
When I first got my new car, I was also curious about whether there was formaldehyde inside. Definitely yes—new car seats, carpets, and adhesives all contain chemicals like formaldehyde, primarily from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released during manufacturing. You can immediately notice that distinct plastic smell upon entering the car. Medical research suggests that long-term exposure to formaldehyde may lead to health issues, such as headaches or allergic reactions. The odor is strongest in the first three months after buying a new car. My approach is to roll down the windows frequently for ventilation, especially after leaving the car under the summer sun for a few hours, which helps the gases dissipate. Additionally, commercially available formaldehyde-removing sprays and activated charcoal bags are quite effective—I often place a few packs on the back seats to absorb pollutants, and the smell fades significantly after two or three months. Remember not to stay in an enclosed space for too long, especially for the elderly and children—prioritize air circulation for safety.
