Created
Oct 3, 2025 9:14 AM
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Formaldehyde is a colorless gas with a sharp smell, commonly used in building materials such as glues, resins, particle board, MDF, and some types of insulation. It can slowly release (or off-gas) into indoor air.
Why it matters:
- At high concentrations, formaldehyde can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat.
- Long-term exposure is linked to health risks, so many countries regulate its use in building products.
- Especially in tiny houses or well-insulated buildings, where ventilation is limited, formaldehyde levels can build up more quickly.
How to recognize it:
- Products are often classified by emission classes, e.g. E1 (low emission, commonly allowed in Europe) and E0 (very low emission).
- Materials with natural glues or solid untreated wood generally emit little or no formaldehyde.
Example:
- MDF board with standard glue → higher formaldehyde emissions.
- Plywood with E0 rating → much safer for indoor air quality.