How Long Should a New Car Be Exposed to Sunlight to Remove Formaldehyde?
2 Answers
The release period of formaldehyde is very long, ranging from 3 to 15 years, and short-term exposure to sunlight cannot completely remove formaldehyde. The purpose of exposing a new car to sunlight: Exposing a new car to sunlight accelerates the movement of formaldehyde molecules, thereby allowing the formaldehyde gas retained in the car to evaporate and disperse. This not only eliminates the odor of the new car but also allows fresh air to circulate inside, greatly improving the overall air circulation in the vehicle. Precautions for exposing a new car to sunlight: After exposing the car to sunlight, it is generally necessary to open the windows for ventilation because the evaporated formaldehyde is harmful to health. The car should not be continuously exposed to sunlight, as prolonged exposure can accelerate the aging of interior seats and even release more harmful gases.
There's no fixed standard for this; it mainly depends on weather conditions and the car's condition. In summer, if the sunlight is strong enough, 2-3 hours of continuous exposure each time is sufficient—remember to roll down all windows for ventilation. Ideally, exposing the car 3-4 times a week works best. However, the effect is much weaker in winter, potentially requiring 50-60 cumulative hours of exposure to achieve similar results. Don’t just focus on sun exposure time—combine it with other methods, such as placing a dozen activated charcoal bags under seats and in various corners of the trunk, then taking them out weekly to sun-dry for reuse. Cars with leather seats need sun protection; use reflective mats or car covers to prevent the leather from cracking. If you're in a hurry, consider visiting a professional auto detailing shop for a full ozone-based formaldehyde removal treatment.
