Used RVs For Sale By Owner And Formaldehyde: Don't Worry

There was a large formaldehyde scare directly after Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005, which caused worry in those searching to purchase used RVs for sale by owner. People feared buying used RVs for sale by owner thinking that formaldehyde was in the motor home and that it was dangerous. Learn the facts about formaldehyde – where it can be found, how people are exposed, and how it is in used RVs for sale by owner. It is safe to purchase used RVs for sale by owner, even if there is formaldehyde in them.

Formaldehyde is found in places other than used RVs for sale by owner

There are several sources of formaldehyde. You may be surprised to read that most everyone has been exposed to it and is exposed daily. There is formaldehyde in cabbage, brussel sprouts, trees, smoke from cigars and cigarettes, as well as in some cosmetic brands. Formaldehyde can be found in medications, shoe polishes, nail polishes, glues, cleaning products, etc.

You can also find traces of formaldehyde in items such as draperies and clothing. It can be found in fiberglass, in the process of making cheese, and it is in the foods that some livestock eats. This organic compound that is found in some used RVs for sale by owner is found naturally in a wide array of common, everyday items.

Formaldehyde and used RVs for sale by owner – how does it get there?

Formaldehyde is found in the glue that holds some plywood and/or particle board materials that used RVs for sale by owner are constructed with. All motorhomes, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, or Class C RVs, are believed to have a slight amount of the chemical in its gas formation. Once the bonding process has occurred in the construction, the gas formation will often dissipate quickly. Called "out-gassing," this is when gas is absorbed. RVs are often well-ventilated, which helps get rid of the gases.

How are people exposed to formaldehyde outside of RVs?

Everyone has formaldehyde in their lives, some are exposed more than others. It is not only found in used RVs for sale by owner. Formaldehyde cannot be 100% avoided. Irritation may be evident in the eyes, throat, or nose. Some people react to the chemical without being aware that they are exposed. When people eat or drink any amount of formaldehyde, the body begins to break it down almost immediately. It will be passed out through the process of urination.

The amount of formaldehyde can be reduced in RVs and beyond

It is important to note that recreational vehicles now must be constructed and built to United States regulations and standards, which means not all used RVs will have formaldehyde gases. If your used motor home does have this chemical, allowing air to enter into the RV will help absorb the gases. Open the windows, purchase a house plant, or maybe even purchase a humidifier.

When buying new clothing or curtains, make sure they are washed before worn or hung as a preventative measure. A used motorhome is believed to be a safe option when buying, since formaldehyde will dissipate from the RV over a period of time.

Julie Jacobs reads and writes about Used RVs For Sale By Owner. See additional on RVs at www.pedatarvcenter.com.