What are the methods to remove formaldehyde in cars?
3 Answers
Methods to remove formaldehyde in cars include: 1. Opening windows for ventilation; 2. Placing fresh fruit peels; 3. Putting clean water and edible vinegar in the car; 4. Placing activated charcoal bags. Hazards of formaldehyde in cars: 1. Formaldehyde can irritate the skin and mucous membranes, bind with proteins, and cause severe respiratory irritation and edema, eye irritation, and headaches; 2. Formaldehyde can lead to allergic dermatitis, pigmentation, necrosis, and excessive formaldehyde in the car can induce bronchial asthma; 3. It can cause nasopharyngeal tumors; 4. Long-term inhalation of formaldehyde by pregnant women may result in fetal malformation or death, while long-term inhalation by men may lead to sperm malformation or death.
When I first bought my new car, I was also worried about the formaldehyde issue, and now I have some experience in dealing with it. Ventilation is the simplest and most effective method. I open the windows for half an hour before driving every day to allow air circulation, which quickly reduces the odor. In summer, I choose shady spots to avoid direct sunlight, preventing accelerated formaldehyde release. For adsorption materials, I often use activated charcoal bags, placing them on the back seats and floor mats, and replace them once a month. Bamboo charcoal is also good with strong absorption. The related issue is that the new car smell is not only annoying but may also affect respiratory health, especially during long-distance driving—don’t overlook this. Regularly wipe the interior with a damp cloth to reduce dust buildup, and combine simple methods to prioritize safety.
After having kids, I became extra cautious about the air quality inside the car, especially regarding formaldehyde removal. Opening windows for ventilation is a basic practice—I often park the car in well-ventilated areas with the windows rolled down for extended periods. When parked in the garage, I use my phone to remotely open the windows for a few minutes. I’ve placed several formaldehyde-absorbing bags with activated charcoal in the car, which are safe, non-irritating, and ideal for family use. You can even opt for versions with a fresh scent. Health considerations: Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde can significantly affect children, so it’s advisable to let a new car air out for about a month before allowing kids inside. Additionally, I bought a portable car air purifier that plugs into the cigarette lighter socket, and its filtration performance is quite effective.
