Formaldehyde is produced in small quantities by most living creatures as part of their normal metabolic processes. Formaldehyde is normally found in low levels in the air, usually less than 0.03 ppm. This level of formaldehyde is not harmful to human health. The formaldehyde level in indoor areas is lower in rural areas, but higher in urban areas. Houses or offices with more formaldehyde-containing products have formaldehyde levels higher than 0.03 ppm.
In daily life, fog and car exhaust may generate toxic levels that are dangerous for our health. More importantly, we are exposed to the highest levels in our homes, offices, and schools due to products such as building materials, flooring, furniture, sheets and many other products that we are not even aware contain formaldehyde. The amount is even higher in new houses and cars. Formaldehyde is also commonly used in the clothing industry since it reduces the presence of wrinkles, especially for long distance shipments from abroad. However, a considerable number of consumers have stated they have had headaches and sore throats after they wear new clothes.