Formaldehyde is a poisonous gas, and unfortunately, it can be present in your home. Smoking indoors and using fuel-burning appliances are just some of the common sources of this human carcinogen. In this case, an air purifier that removes formaldehyde is the only way to remove the hazardous pollutant before it causes a serious health problem.
Below, I reviewed 10 air purifiers that can help remove formaldehyde in your indoor air. Paired with other tips, these units will make a big difference in the air you breathe:
| AIR PURIFIER | BRAND | EXPERT RATING | CHECK PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Our Top Pick! IQAir GC MultiGas Medical-Grade Air Purifier |  | Check Price |
 | Blueair Classic 680i HEPASilent Air Purifier | | Check Price |
 | Dyson HP04 Pure Hot+Cool Air Purifier | | Check Price |
 | Medify MA-40 Air Purifier | | Check Price |
 | AIRDOCTOR 4-in-1 Air Purifier | | Check Price |
 | Hathaspace HSP002 Smart Air Purifier | | Check Price |
 | LIFE CELL 2550 HEPA Air Purifier |  | Check Price |
 | Blueair Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier | | Check Price |
 | Winix 5500-2 PlasmaWave Air Purifier | | Check Price |
 | LEVOIT LV-PUR131 Air Purifier |  | Check Price |
Potential sources of formaldehyde in your home
Formaldehyde is often associated with industrial settings, but it can also exist in your home. The following are some of the potential sources of these harmful gas:
- Fuel-burning appliances. The likes of kerosene space heaters and gas stoves can produce formaldehyde if not used properly. Also, lack of ventilation in the area of use will increase the risk of having high levels of formaldehyde in your home.
- Cigarette smoke. Whether it’s tobacco or e-cigarette, smoking produces formaldehyde. This is the biggest reason why you should never smoke inside enclosed spaces. Better yet, don’t smoke at all.
- Household products. Paints, coatings, glues, and even press fabrics can also off-gas formaldehyde. There are also some fabric softeners and dishwashing liquids that can emit this toxic gas.
- Pressed wood products. If your home was recently remodeled or renovated, you should check if the materials used contain formaldehyde resins. The most common sources of formaldehyde in construction sites are particleboards, hardwood plywood paneling, and fiberboards.
- Beauty products. Even the beauty products you use can also release formaldehyde. Nail polishes are notorious for this as well as nail hardeners, soaps, makeup, and hair products. Still, not all of these products will automatically have the dangerous formaldehyde. Always read the label and be smart with your options.
How air purifiers remove formaldehyde in the air
Are you worried about having formaldehyde in your home? Or is your home tested for formaldehyde? If so, air purifiers will be your first line of defense aside from proper ventilation.
However, you should know that not all air purifiers in the market can remove formaldehyde. You have to look for one with activated carbon or an activated charcoal filter. These porous materials will trap volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like formaldehyde so that they won’t recirculate in your indoor air.
Still, an air purifier is only a part of the solution. Depending on the level of formaldehyde in your home, you may need professional help to restore the cleanliness of your indoor air.
Also, you should remember that air purifiers also need maintenance. You have to replace the filters regularly to ensure that they will continue to remove formaldehyde in your home. Otherwise, you’re just defeating the purpose of having an air purifier.
Best Air Purifier That Removes Formaldehyde – Top 10 Picks
OUR #1 CHOICE
OUR TOP PICK: IQAir GC MultiGas Medical-Grade Air Purifier
Product Name: IQAir GC MultiGas Medical-Grade Air Purifier
Product Description: If you’re looking for an air purifier that removes formaldehyde, you’ll never go wrong with the IQAir GC MultiGas. This medical-grade unit boasts of the Swiss quality that can filter particulates and harmful gasses in the air. To make this possible, IQAir MultiGas is equipped with four layers of filtration. It has a HyperHEPA particle filtration that will remove ultrafine particles in the air. It’s paired with a cartridge-based activated carbon that adsorbs volatile organic compounds. Aside from that, this air purifier has cartridge-based chemisorption that destroys formaldehyde and other harmful chemicals. To complete the ensemble, there’s a post-filter sleeve that prevents dust from recirculating in the air.
Offer price: $$$
Availability: InStock
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Summary
Despite its powerful operation, the IQAir GC MultiGas has a reasonably quiet operation and 16% higher clear air production than other units. Its H11 HyperHEPA filter also has a 20% longer lifespan than older units.
Overall, this air purifier can trap particles as small as 0.003 microns on a maximum room size of 1,125 sq. ft. It also has a remote control and programmable timer for your convenience.
I just wish that they can make the wheels more durable. But other than that, splurging on this air purifier is worth every dollar.
Pros
- Filters up to 0.003 microns
- Destroys formaldehyde in the air
- Relatively quiet operation
Cons
- The wheels tend to come off quite easily.
RUNNERS-UP
Blueair Classic 680i HEPASilent Air Purifier
If your budget isn’t fit for the IQAir GC MultiGas, the second-best option is the Blueair Classic 680i Air Purifier. This sports Dual-Protection filters that remove tiny particles and gasses in the air. It’s also effective against formaldehyde and other volatile compounds.
Aside from that, the Blueair Classic 680i is ENERGY STAR-rated and has passed AHAM lab tests. I also like the intuitive design of the air purifier that allows you to adjust the three fan speeds on the fly.
Also, this air purifier has the HEPASilent technology that serves as an electrostatic barrier that keeps the pollutants trap in the filter. It’s paired with an activated coconut carbon filter that helps remove gaseous pollutants like formaldehyde in your indoor air.
Another great thing about the Blueair 680i is its air quality sensors. Once it detects higher pollution levels, the air purifier will automatically adjust the fan speed to restore healthy air right away.
This air purifier is also Wi-Fi enabled, so you can control the unit through your smartphone using the Blueair Friend app. It’s also Alexa-compatible for added convenience.
Overall, this air purifier is an excellent choice for rooms up to 800 sq. ft. It’s also safe to use in kitchens where large amounts of formaldehyde are usually found.
Dyson HP04 Pure Hot+Cool Air Purifier
The Dyson HP04 offers a whole new approach to air purifiers. It has a unique design that allows it to function as a fan, purifier, and space heater in one. While the price tag is quite intimidating, thousands of homeowners swear by its filtration power.
Moreover, the Dyson HP04 Hot+Cool Air Purifier has a HEPA air filter with activated carbon. While it removes harmful particulates in the air, this purifier also neutralizes VOCs like formaldehyde. If you know how to clean Dyson Air Purifier Filter properly, it will last for years.
Also, this unit has automatic sensors that detect levels of gas or particulate pollution in the air. It will then adjust the filtration level in real-time.
True to its modern design, the Dyson HP04 is Wi-Fi enabled and can be controlled using the Dyson Link App. Here, you can see your indoor air quality, temperature, humidity, and other features.
This air purifier also boasts 350-degree oscillation to keep the air moving. It’s aside from the 77 gallons of smooth air delivered every second to almost every direction.
The only thing I noticed is that this air purifier is prone to whistling. I tried setting in the highest fan speed, and I can hear a whistle as the unit expels more air. It’s not really a problem for me, but it could be for other users who are sensitive to sound.
Medify MA-40 Air Purifier
If you have a large area to clean of formaldehyde, you should consider this bundle of two Medify MA-40 Air Purifiers. Both of these air purifiers are equipped with H13 HEPA filtration that can remove particles, odors, and VOCs in the air. It’s also a champ in reducing formaldehyde in your indoor air.
The Medify MA-40 has a CADR of 380, which can clean the air of a 1,600 sq. ft. room in one hour. If you use the two air purifiers at the same time, the filtration time would be much faster.
Aside from the HEPA filter, these two units have an activated carbon filter that will eliminate odors and gasses. There’s also a pre-filter that will prevent dust and dirt from recirculating in your home.
Moreover, this has an ultra-quiet operation with a maximum noise level of 66 dB. You can also use the sleep mode to dim the panel lights fully.
Its filter also lasts for up to 3,000 hours of operation or roughly six months. There’s a filter indicator replacement on the panel to notify you when it’s time for maintenance.
Overall, this air purifier is CARB-compliant, ETL-certified, and ENERGY STAR rated. It’s also backed by a lifetime warranty in the USA.
AIRDOCTOR 4-in-1 Air Purifier
The AIRDOCTOR 4-in-1 Air Purifier uses an UltraHEPA filter that can trap airborne particles as small as 0.003 microns. It also has a CADR rating of up to 373 CFM, which is powerful enough to suck out VOCs like formaldehyde from your indoor air.
Moreover, this air purifier can clean the air three times per hour in a 900 sq. ft. room. It has three filtration stages, including a pre-filter, UltraHEPA filter, and the Dual-Action VOC filter. The last one removes gas, volatile compounds, and malodors in the air.
Aside from that, this air purifier has a 100% sealed system that will prevent irritants from recirculating in your home.
I also like the built-in sensor that detects air pollution levels in real-time. It will also adjust the filtration level automatically to keep up with how polluted the air is.
In addition, this air purifier has four fan speeds, dim lighting for night mode, a timer, and an optional ionizer feature. There’s also a change filter alert, so you’ll know when it’s time for a replacement.
Overall, this is a quiet air purifier with a whisper-jet fan that’s 30% quieter than traditional fans.
A 30-day satisfaction guarantee backs your purchase of the AIRDOCTOR 4-in-1 Air Purifier.
Hathaspace HSP002 Smart Air Purifier
For those with 1,500 sq. ft. of floor area, the Hathaspace HSP002 Smart Air Purifier might be the right choice. It uses a medical-grade HEPA filter, which is more powerful than H11 and standard H13 versions. Overall, this filter is paired with activated carbon that can remove formaldehyde, smoke, and other noxious gasses in the air.
Moreover, the Hathaspace HSP002 can filter out particulates as small as 0.1 microns. It also has a smart sensor that monitors the air quality. This will adjust the filtration level in real-time to keep up with the pollution level.
Aside from that, this air purifier has a touchscreen panel that shows the EPA Air Quality Index reading. There’s also a light on the front panel that changes its color based on the indoor air quality. This makes it very easy to monitor pollution in your home.
Aside from formaldehyde, this air purifier can also neutralize viruses and bacteria in the air, which is a big plus during this pandemic. It also efficiently removes smoke, pet dander, and allergens to give you healthy air.
Overall, this is backed by a 5-year warranty to secure your purchase.
LIFE CELL 2550 HEPA Air Purifier
While it costs lower than other options here, the LIFE CELL 2550 HEPA Air Purifier has a lot to offer. First, it boasts a CADR of 350 CFM on its four-speed operation. It’s also ENERGY STAR rated and certified to remove cannabis odor and smoke.
Also, this air purifier has a 2-pound granulated carbon filter that will help remove formaldehyde from the air. It’s paired with a medical-grade HEPA filter that will trap 99.97% of all airborne particulates. This is aside from the washable antimicrobial pre-filter that will trap dust, spores, and dander.
Aside from that, the LIFE CELL air purifier has an unbeatable filtration capacity of up to 2,500 sq. ft. It’s also CARB compliant to ensure that the unit doesn’t produce harmful ozone.
This air purifier has a digital control panel with filter, standby, and fan speed indicators. It will also allow you to change the fan speed and timer easily.
I just wish that they included an auto mode on this air purifier. Other than that, it’s reasonably quiet, and the filter is very easy to install.
Blueair Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier
For smaller rooms not bigger than 540 sq. ft., I recommend the Blueair Blue Pure 211+. This air purifier has an activated carbon filter that reduces VOCs in the air, including the dreaded formaldehyde. It’s also effective against molds, pet dander, smoke, outdoor irritants, and more.
Also, this air purifier has an advanced Swedish design that can filter up to 99% of all airborne particles. It’s also a good choice in removing malodors in your home.
The Blueair Blue Pure uses a washable pre-filter that will trap larger particles. Aside from that, there’s a HEPASilent technology that uses electrostatic filtration to sieve smaller irritants. And since the particles will be charged, they will cling to the filter better, so it won’t recirculate in the air.
Moreover, this has a one-button control to make it simple for all users. There’s also a filter warning to let you know once it’s time for a replacement. While it doesn’t have fancy digital displays of other units, I think its quality is fair enough for the price.
Overall, this has a 350 CFM of CADR for smoke. It’s also AHAM Verifide, though there’s no auto mode, which can be a make-or-break part for some buyers.
Winix 5500-2 PlasmaWave Air Purifier
If you want to save money without cutting back on filtration power, I highly recommend the Winix 5500-2 PlasmaWave Air Purifier. It uses a true HEPA filter with a washable carbon filter made of activated carbon granules to trap volatile organic compounds like formaldehyde.
This air purifier also uses PlasmaWave that breaks down chemicals and odors in the air. It does so without producing ozone that may harm your family.
Moreover, the Winix 5500-2 has a washable pre-filter, an AOC carbon filter, and a True HEPA filter. All of them are powerful in filtering out airborne particles and gasses in your home.
Aside from that, this unit is equipped with Smart Sensors that will automatically adjust the fan speed based on how polluted the environment is. This is a surprising feature, considering that Winix 5500-2 is offered for a much lower price than the other purifiers I reviewed here.
Overall, this has a CADR suitable for up to 360 sq. ft. It’s made for small rooms only, which is far from shabby given its price tag and filtration power.
Lastly, this air purifier is AHAM Verifide, and ENERGY STAR rated to help you save electricity.
LEVOIT LV-PUR131 Air Purifier
Are you on a budget? If so, you should consider the LEVOIT LV-PUR131 Air Purifier. This might be cheaper than the other units listed here, but it’s not one to be underestimated when it comes to formaldehyde removal.
This air purifier has a huge honeycomb carbon filter as well as a True HEPA filter that will remove particles and gasses in the air. It’s a smoke eater and guaranteed to reduce VOC levels in your home.
Also, the LEVOIT LV-PUR131 Air Purifier is suitable for up to 900 sq. ft. of floor area when used on MAX Mode Power. If used in smaller rooms, this unit can filter air much faster.
True to LEVOIT’s technology, this air purifier has a Smart Auto Mode that automatically adjusts the three fan speeds based on the indoor air quality.
Moreover, this air purifier has a LED display that you can turn off for a peaceful sleep. It also has a quiet night mode operation for just 27 dB, which is quiet enough to use around a baby.
Most of all, this LEVOIT air purifier is 100% ozone-free and doesn’t use harmful UV lights. You can also check the filter life using the VeSync app.
How to choose an air purifier that removes formaldehyde
There are many air purifiers in the market, but not all of them are effective in removing formaldehyde in your room. To help you find the right pick, you should consider the following points:
✔️Filter type
The very first thing you should check is the filter type of the air purifier. This is the part that will dictate whether the unit can remove formaldehyde in your home or not.
To ensure that the air purifier can remove formaldehyde, look for one with an activated carbon filter. Activated carbon can trap volatile organic compounds like formaldehyde.
Take note that HEPA filters alone can’t remove formaldehyde in the air. While this efficient filter can remove airborne particulates, it does very little when it comes to harmful gasses.
One of the most popular technologies in the air purifier market is Photoelectrochemical oxidation (PECO). This technology is developed to destroy organic matter, including volatile compounds.
Nevertheless, high-density and premium activated carbon will still do a good job in filtering out formaldehyde in the air. Remember that activated carbon filters are often measured by weight in pounds. The heavier it is, the more powerful it will be in removing VOCs.
✔️Capacity and room rating
Next, you should consider the capacity of the air purifier you’re going to buy. It’s not enough that it can filter out formaldehyde; it should also be powerful enough for the floor area of your room.
This is often measured through CADR or Clean Air Delivery Rate. It refers to how fast an air purifier can remove pollutants in the air within a specific timeframe. It’s gauged by CFM or cubic feet per minute.
Most air purifiers are tested for dust, smoke, and pollen, while there are also units that underwent more rigorous testing.
Aside from the CADR of the air purifier, you should also check the floor area rating. It’s often provided alongside the CADR to help buyers find the right unit for their homes. By matching the air purifier to your room size, you’ll enjoy efficient air cleaning without consuming too much electricity.
✔️Noise level
For those who have babies or very sensitive hearing, the noise level of the air purifier is often a make-or-break part.
To be fair, the noise level is always a trade-off if you want a powerful air purifier. Just remember that bigger air purifiers with powerful engines are normally louder than compact options.
If you’re bent on using a quiet air purifier, look for one with adjustable fan speeds. This will let you set the unit in quiet mode at night.
✔️VOC sensor
A VOC sensor will detect increased volatile compounds in the air, including formaldehyde. From there, the air purifier will adjust its speed to help regain the room’s clean air.
However, only a few air purifiers have this function. The price tag is also steep but worth the splurge if you want efficient indoor air cleaning.
✔️Controls and adjustments
Make sure that the air purifier of your choice will let you adjust the fan speed. This is crucial since it will affect the cleaning power and noise level of the unit.
If the air purifier has a built-in light, make sure that it can be turned on and off based on your liking. This will prevent disruptions at night.
Also, you can consider investing in a smart air purifier. These options are Wi-Fi enabled, which allows you to control the unit through your smartphone. It’s very convenient since you can check on your indoor air even if you’re not at home.
✔️Ozone-free operation
Old technologies used on air purifiers utilize ozone to destroy volatile compounds like formaldehyde. It’s efficient, but prolonged exposure to ozone can also lead to health complications.
With this, you should guarantee that the unit you’re purchasing isn’t producing harmful ozone that will do more harm than help.
✔️Certifications
All appliances undergo testing and certification process from multiple third-party laboratories. It ensures that the units are safe, effective, and at par with industry standards.
For air purifiers, try to look for the following certifications:
- ENERGY STAR. This certification shows that the air purifier is energy-efficient. It means that the unit uses less electricity than non-certified options.
- AHAM Verifide. This certification means that the air purifier has passed the organization’s standardized lab test. It certifies that the unit can eliminate dust, smoke, and pollen efficiently.
- CARB. CARB stands for California Air Resources Board. A certification from CARB means that the air purifier is free of ozone and other hazardous emissions.
✔️Dimensions and size
The physical dimensions of the air purifier are also important, especially if you have a small home. Still, you shouldn’t compromise the unit’s efficacy when it comes to removing formaldehyde.
If you don’t have the luxury of space, look for an air purifier tower. This has a horizontal design and a small footprint that can fit in a corner. There are also wall-mounted air purifiers that will let you save space.
✔️Price and warranty
Lastly, check the warranty of the air purifier you’re going to buy. An air purifier that removes formaldehyde doesn’t come cheap, so it’s important to have protection on your purchase.
How to avoid formaldehyde in your home
As much as formaldehyde is dangerous, there are ways to reduce your exposure to it. Here are some of the things to keep in mind:
- No smoking inside your house. It’s important to impose a strict rule that no smoking of any kind is allowed indoors. Aside from formaldehyde, cigarette smoke contains other harmful compounds that could trigger asthma attacks and respiratory diseases.
- Operate generators at a distance. If you’re using a portable generator, make sure that it’s at least 20 feet away from your house. This will allow carbon monoxide and formaldehyde to dissipate properly.
- Opt for sealed pressed wood products. If you’re buying furniture made of pressed wood, make sure that it’s properly sealed to prevent off-gassing. But to be sure, it’s best to invest your money in solid wood pieces. It’s more aesthetic and durable than pressed wood versions.
- Observe proper ventilation. Make sure that air is moving inside your home to allow formaldehyde to dissipate right away. Always keep your vents working and consider installing ceiling fans to funnel air in and out.
- Aerate new furniture. If the furniture you bought has a strong smell, you should aerate it for several days before bringing it indoors. This will allow formaldehyde to dissipate naturally instead of getting trapped inside your house.
- Clean your fireplaces. Burning fuel inside your house increases the formaldehyde levels in the air. It’s important to clean your fireplaces and furnaces regularly to prevent the risk of poisoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does baking soda remove formaldehyde?
A: Baking soda adsorbs formaldehyde, but it can’t neutralize it like other cleaning agents. In short, baking soda can still release formaldehyde when diluted in water. This is why you should use other methods if you want to get rid of the harmful gasses in your home.
Q: What does formaldehyde smell like?
A: Formaldehyde is colorless, but it’s easily distinguishable with its pickle-like odor. You can easily pick up the smell even in small amounts. The odor is pungent and strong, on which the intensity of the scent tells how much formaldehyde is in your home.
Q: How can I test for formaldehyde in my home?
A: You can use a formaldehyde detector to see if your home has high levels of this toxic compound. You can also hire air quality experts to conduct a professional assessment of your home’s air quality. They will give you an accurate report about how much formaldehyde is present in the air together with other harmful fumes.
Q: How long does it take for formaldehyde to dissipate?
A: Formaldehyde dissipates at varying rates, depending on the conditions of your home. Higher temperatures, better ventilation, and higher humidity will speed up the process. Take note that formaldehyde can linger for up to two years if not aerated or removed properly.
Q: What are the symptoms of formaldehyde exposure?
A: Formaldehyde exposure and poisoning can lead to breathing problems, headaches, throat irritation, skin rashes, and dizziness. Prolonged exposure can increase your risk of cancer and other serious health problems. This is why you should act fast when formaldehyde is detected in your home.
Final words
An air purifier that removes formaldehyde will help reduce harmful gasses in your home. Beyond the pungent smell, formaldehyde can cause serious illnesses in your family. Before that happens, it’s best to take steps to clean your indoor air. Aside from formaldehyde, an air purifier can also remove allergens, dust, dander, and more. It’s a wise purchase for a myriad of benefits.
Home Air Quality is founded by Bernard K to provide information on Indoor Air Quality in Homes and enlighten people about what they need to know about creating and maintaining a comfortable and healthy home environment.
We believe that “Quality air brings a healthy life.”
