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- Stefanie Uhlert
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Measure formaldehyde yourself - quick tests versus measuring devices
There are various ways to measure formaldehyde yourself in the home. One possibility is the use of measuring devices such as formaldehyde detectors. These devices are able to measure and display the formaldehyde concentration in the air. Another possibility is colorimetry. Here, a sample of the suspicious liquid or material is examined by means of a color reaction and the formaldehyde concentration is determined. It is also possible to visit an expert who can determine the concentration of formaldehyde in the home using special measurement methods. It is important to note that formaldehyde can be present not only in the air but also in materials and products, which is why it is advisable to seek advice from an expert to identify and control all possible sources of formaldehyde in the home evaluate.
A detailed step-by-step guide on how formaldehyde can be measured can be found in our Blog – Contribution.
Detect formaldehyde sources intuitively or by smell
One way to intuitively track down sources of formaldehyde is by smell. Formaldehyde has a characteristic, strong and pungent odor that is easily noticeable. If there is a strong smell of formaldehyde in the home, this could be an indication of a formaldehyde source. However, it is important to note that formaldehyde smell alone is not always sufficient to identify a formaldehyde source. It could be that the odor is caused by other chemicals or that the source of formaldehyde is not close to the location of the odor. It is therefore advisable to also consider other signs and, if necessary, to consult an expert in order to identify the source of formaldehyde with certainty or one self test to perform
Targeted testing of formaldehyde with rapid tests
It is possible to target formaldehyde in the home by using rapid tests to measure yourself. These tests usually come in the form of strips or pads and can be easily applied to the suspected area. After a short exposure time, the tests indicate whether formaldehyde is present or not. However, the accuracy of rapid tests can vary and it is important to realize that these tests can only provide a rough guide. For an accurate determination of the formaldehyde concentration, it is advisable to use a professional measuring device or a laboratory. It is also important to note that formaldehyde can be present not only in the air but also in materials and products, so it is wise to consider these possible sources as well.
You can find a detailed article about the different formaldehyde test methods and a comparison in our blog post 4- Formaldehyde tests in comparison.
