Is the Formaldehyde Smell in New Cars Harmful?

[NorahLee]

New car formaldehyde smell is harmful. Reasons for formaldehyde in new cars: The inherent smell of the car interior. A car is not just an empty metal frame; it is composed of various components, some of which contain significant amounts of formaldehyde. After purchasing a car, interior decoration is often done. Some car owners may add accessories such as floor mats, dashboard sunshades, seat covers, etc., after driving for a while. Some dealers also offer decoration as part of promotional deals, and some rubber and seat covers contain harmful substances. Mats and adhesives introduced into the car can also release toxic gases. Methods to remove formaldehyde: Place activated carbon bags in the car, purchase specialized formaldehyde air purifiers, or use photocatalysts to eliminate formaldehyde.

[AaronMarie]

I just became a new dad and I'm particularly worried about the formaldehyde smell in my new car. The harm is indeed quite significant. Formaldehyde is a toxic gas released by plastics, adhesives, or leather in the car's interior. Prolonged exposure can easily cause headaches, nasal congestion, or allergic reactions, with more severe effects on children. The first few months are the peak concentration period, so don't let your baby stay in the car for too long. As for solutions, after buying a new car, make sure to open the windows for ventilation for at least 30 minutes every day, place bamboo charcoal bags to absorb odors, and avoid exposing the car to direct sunlight in summer to reduce volatilization. I researched and found that formaldehyde is a carcinogen, with higher risks from long-term exposure, so don't take it lightly. Regularly check the air quality inside the car. If the smell persists, consider switching to an eco-friendly material car or seek professional cleaning. Health is no small matter, and safe driving also includes breathing safely.

[DelJoy]

As a tech-savvy digital enthusiast, let me talk about the issue of formaldehyde in new cars. Formaldehyde is quite harmful—it evaporates from car seats, panels, or carpets, and excessive concentrations can irritate the respiratory tract or even increase cancer risks. The first one or two weeks are the worst for the in-car environment, making ventilation crucial—roll down the windows while driving or use an in-car air purifier. From a scientific perspective: formaldehyde release speed depends on temperature and humidity, doubling in high temperatures; tests have found many new cars exceed standards, but don’t blindly trust app-based detection. It’s recommended to rely more on natural ventilation and upgrade to eco-friendly air filters. The smell will fade after a few months, but don’t neglect early prevention. When choosing a car, ask manufacturers about using low-volatility materials to protect your and your family’s health.

[GabrielleMarie]

Having driven a taxi for over a decade, I know all too well how nauseating that new car formaldehyde smell can be. That stuff can cause dizziness and sore throats, especially in summer when closed windows turn the car into a literal gas chamber. The odor is strongest when the car is brand new—never drive with windows sealed for extended periods. Ventilation is the most cost-effective solution: roll down windows for 30 minutes daily, and avoid entering immediately after parking under scorching sun. Activated charcoal or in-car air purifiers also help absorb odors. Experience tells me the situation improves after the first three months, but older vehicles still carry residual risks. Regularly clean interiors and avoid chemical cleaners that exacerbate the problem. Safety first—don’t trade health for novelty.