How To Clear Formaldehyde Gas In Your Newly Renovated Home

Author
Jan 22
3 min read

After completing a home renovation, many homeowners are eager to enjoy their refreshed living spaces. However, it's important to be aware of potential indoor air quality issues that can arise post-renovation, particularly concerning formaldehyde gas. Formaldehyde is a volatile organic compound (VOC) commonly found in building materials and furnishings, and its levels can increase significantly after renovation work.

In Singapore, the National Environment Agency (NEA) has received reports of formaldehyde levels in newly renovated homes reaching up to 10 times higher than recommended standards1. Such elevated concentrations pose health risks, especially in high-density living environments where ventilation may be limited.

The risks of formaldehyde exposure

Formaldehyde exposure can lead to various health issues. Short-term exposure may cause symptoms such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Long-term exposure has been linked to more severe health effects, including certain types of cancer2. Given these risks, it's crucial to address formaldehyde levels in your home promptly.

Identifying sources of formaldehyde in your home

Common sources of formaldehyde in newly renovated homes include:

Pressed-wood products: Items such as particleboard, plywood, and medium-density fibreboard often contain formaldehyde-based resins.

New furniture and cabinetry: Particularly those made from composite wood products, where adhesive glues are used in binding wood boards with the chosen laminates.

Flooring materials: Certain vinyl, laminates, and engineered wood products.

Insulation materials: Some types of foam insulation.

Steps to reduce formaldehyde levels

1. Increase ventilation: After renovation, ensure that your home is well-ventilated. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate, which helps dissipate formaldehyde emissions.

2. Control temperature and humidity: Formaldehyde release is accelerated by heat and may also depend on humidity levels. Using air conditioning and dehumidifiers can help maintain moderate temperature and humidity, reducing formaldehyde emissions.

3. Consider formaldehyde removal gels: These gels, like Slurpy Bear's Formaldehyde Removal Gel, effectively absorb toxic formaldehyde gas, eliminate odours, and purify the air. They are a practical solution for maintaining air quality in newly renovated spaces.

4. Opt for low-formaldehyde products: When selecting building materials and furnishings, choose products labelled as low or no formaldehyde emissions. In Singapore, look for items that comply with local safety standards.

5. Avoid smoking indoors: Tobacco smoke is a significant source of formaldehyde2. Prohibiting smoking inside your home can help maintain better air quality.

6. Use formaldehyde detectors: Investing in a formaldehyde detector allows you to monitor the air quality in your home actively. These devices can detect elevated levels of formaldehyde, enabling you to take timely action. Regularly monitoring formaldehyde levels is essential, especially in the months following a renovation. Formaldehyde detectors can provide real-time data, allowing you to assess the effectiveness of your mitigation efforts. Additionally, maintaining good ventilation and controlling indoor climate conditions can help keep formaldehyde levels in check.

Conclusion

Ensuring that your newly renovated home is free from harmful formaldehyde gas is crucial for your health and well-being. By understanding the sources of formaldehyde, implementing effective ventilation, using formaldehyde detectors and removal gels, and choosing low-emission products, you can create a safer and more comfortable living environment.

For sustainable products that can help maintain your home's indoor air quality, consider exploring the offerings from Slurpy Bear. Our range of eco-friendly solutions is designed to promote a healthier living space for you and your family.