What are the methods to remove formaldehyde in a car?
2 Answers
Methods to remove formaldehyde in a car: 1. Open windows frequently for ventilation and use the car's external air circulation; 2. Place bamboo charcoal bags to absorb formaldehyde; 3. Clean leather seat covers, floor mats, etc. inside the car; 4. When the car is not in use, place a small bucket of water with some vinegar in the car - water can absorb formaldehyde while vinegar helps stabilize it; 5. Visit an automotive care center for negative ion deodorization service. Formaldehyde is an organic chemical compound, a colorless gas with a pungent odor that irritates human eyes, nose, etc. It can be easily reduced to methanol with metal or metal oxide catalysts, and oxidized to formic acid or carbon dioxide and water.
Last year I bought a new car, and the strong smell inside was really bothersome, especially with the excessive formaldehyde levels. To tackle this issue, I spend a few minutes every day ventilating the car by opening the windows before driving, especially after it's been parked for a long time, to allow air circulation. I also placed several bamboo charcoal bags in the seat crevices and trunk to absorb formaldehyde molecules. I find that sun exposure works quite well—on weekends, I park the car in an open area with the windows open for a few hours, as the heat accelerates formaldehyde release. Occasionally, I spray lemon juice or a diluted white vinegar solution on the interior surfaces, avoiding harsh chemical cleaners. The key is consistency; don’t expect immediate results. After several weeks of these efforts, the odor noticeably diminished, and I feel much healthier. While driving, I ensure proper ventilation by avoiding closed windows with the AC on, which helps reduce formaldehyde buildup.
