Formaldehyde is a chemical that most people have heard of, but did you know that it is found in a variety of items around the home? Should this be of concern to you? In this blog, we are going to discuss the items in the home that are most likely to contain formaldehyde, as well as the danger this may pose to your health.
As is the case with many chemicals, formaldehyde is not visibly detectable, however, it can sometimes be noticeable by a pungent aroma. Plywood, particleboard, and other types of pressed lumber often contain formaldehyde. It is also used in the treatment of textiles so you may also find it in curtains, sofas, and cushions, etc. Another area where formaldehyde is present is in some types of glue and fuel-burning appliances. It is easy to see, then, how common the presence of formaldehyde is in the home.
Should you be concerned that being exposed to formaldehyde will have negative effects on your health? It is still not too clear how much formaldehyde you need to be exposed to for it to become a danger to health, however, it is a known carcinogen that we know to be cancer-causing and can often affect the upper throat. Other potential symptoms from exposure to formaldehyde are fatigue and respiratory problems. Because these may feel much like other allergy symptoms, do not automatically assume that the cause of your health problem is related to formaldehyde, instead, it would be best to consult with your doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
If you are worried about formaldehyde in your home, it is worth noting that there are many household products available today that do not contain this chemical. So, before making any kind of household purchase, do your research to be sure that the item is formaldehyde-free.
