We believe that our home is the safest haven for our kids and loved ones. Little do we realize that this sanctuary is often filled with harmful household chemicals that can make the air indoors more harmful than outdoor pollution. This is where the best air purifier for VOCs and Formaldehyde comes into the picture.
Most people consider air purifiers as a tool for removing dust, pollen, dander, and tiny particles suspended in the air, however this is just one part of the story. Some models are powerful enough to not only deal with the visible particles but also the invisible pollutants such as toxic gases or VOCs and formaldehyde.
VOCs stand for volatile organic compounds and they are a class of chemical compounds that become airborne close to room temperature. Formaldehyde is a type of chemical present in resins and adhesives used for making products such as laminate countertops and engineered wood products.
These compounds have the tendency to vaporize under room temperature and pressure conditions, causing them to build up in the air. They can have a detrimental effect on your family’s health. Therefore, it’s necessary to choose a high-quality air purifier capable of removing formaldehyde and other VOCs.
In this post, we have reviewed some of the top air purifiers for VOCs and formaldehyde, along with a comparison between products to help you choose. After reviewing dozens of products, we feel that the Hathaspace Air Purifier (learn more) is a good choice for someone looking to purify a small area, with 5 filters and a noise level of less than 18 decibels.
If you need a purifier with large coverage capacity, get the Austin HealthMate Plus which comes with a 5-year warranty. Although slightly more expensive, it lasts longer and delivers a remarkable performance in keeping your indoor air clean..
Features/Product Names | Hathaspace Air Purifier | AIRDOCTOR Air Purifier | Green Air Encore | Austin HealthMate | NuWave OXYPURE | Airpura F600 | Formaldehyde Fumes Remover |
No. of Filters | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 3 | EC-181F cartridges |
HEPA filter | 99.97% | 99.95% | 99.97% | 99.97% | 99.97% | 99.97% | NA |
Coverage (up to) | 350 sq. Ft | 900 sq. ft. | 1000 sq ft. | 1500 sq. Ft | 1,200 sq ft | 2000 sq ft | 540 sq ft |
Warranty | 2 years | 1 year | 1 year | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years | NA |
Noise | 18 dB | 39-59 dB | 23dB | 50 dB | 6 fan speed | 28.1-62.3 db | NA |
ACH | 2 | 3 | 1.5 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 1 |
Casters | No | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | No |
Rating | 8.8 | 8.5 | 8.7 | 9 | 8.3 | 8.5 | 7.8 |
See Price | See Price | See Price | See Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
1. Hathaspace Smart True HEPA Air Purifier
This is a powerful 5-in-1 air purifier system that comprises of a Nano Cold Catalyst Filter, Cellular Activated Carbon Filter, Antibacterial Filter, True HEPA Filter, and an Ionizer (Ozone-Safe). The manufacturer claims that their product can provide protection against multiple air pollutants such as pollen, dust mites, spores, odors, smoke, pet hair, dander, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The True HEPA filter is capable of trapping particles as tiny as 0.3 microns in size.
This Hathaspace air purifier is approved by CARB and comes equipped with an automatic sensor system to measure the air quality and adjust the fan speed. A display on the purifier will let you know the quality of the air you are breathing. We were also impressed by the promise of a two-year warranty and a solid 7-days-a-week customer support to give buyers peace of mind.
Product Features and Specifications
- Measures 13.5 x 7 x 19.5 inches
- White-colored
- 5-in-1 purification system
- Smart air quality sensor
- Filters 99.97% of Allergens and Pollutants
- Remote Control Operable
- Whisper-Quiet Sleep Mode
User/ Customer Impression
Those who have used this air purifier are full of praise for its solid performance in picking up the slightest presence of dust, odor, and toxic gases. According to users, it has helped them sleep better and get rid of frequent runny noses in the mornings. While most customers are happy that this product works as advertised, a few express that they wish it was designed in a way to cover a larger area.
Conclusion
This air purifier by Hathaspace is a good investment for people with kids, pets, or those who live in polluted areas. The indicator light turns red any time that there is dust, chemical or bad odors in the air, and you can feel the air getting better in just a few minutes. Overall, we found that this product works as expected and delivers a good price to performance ratio.
2. AIRDOCTOR 4-in-1 Air Purifier
The name ‘Airdoctor’ sounds so reassuring, and the manufacturer’s claim that it is 100 times more effective than HEPA air filters makes it one of the best air purifier for VOCs and formaldehyde. The Ultra HEPA filter is capable of removing 99.95% of airborne particles of up to 0.003 microns in size. With a CADR rating of approximately 373, this air purifier can improve the quality of air in a 900 sq. ft. room.
This air purifier comes with a sensing device that immediately detects dust, pollutants or toxic gases in the atmosphere and adjusts the settings to improve the air quality. Customers get to choose from four different filter options, which is great. We also love that this an energy star rated device that delivers great performance along with cost and energy savings. It is also 30 percent quieter than any traditional air purifiers.
Product Features and Specifications
- Measures 8.5 x 16 x 23.5 inches
- Full-spectrum filters
- Captures harmful gases
- Filter change alert
- Automatic shut-off
- Removes bad odor
- Auto sensor
- 3 stage air filtration
User/ Customer Impressions
People who have bought this product are elated with the performance and the improved quality of the air they experience indoors, despite having pets or a partner that smokes. Users have also commented about how easily they were able to set it up and the efficiency at which the automatic sensors pick up any pollution in the air and work at removing it quickly.
Conclusion
If you are looking for an air purifier that is potent enough to pick up and remove VOCs such as formaldehyde, then this is a good option for the price. However, it only comes with a one-year limited warranty, so if something goes wrong after that period, you are completely on your own. The replacement filters are pricey so you may want to consider this before buying.
3. Green Air Encore HEPA and Odor Fighting Filter Air Purifier
This air purifier from Green Air comes with a 3-stage air filtration and purifier system equipped with a true HEPA filter. It is also powered by odor-fighting filter technology to improve the quality of indoor air. Our team was happy to discover that this non-ozone-based purifier is capable of removing 99.97 percent of allergens and particulates as small as 0.3 microns. It also does a good job of removing foul odors, smoke, and harmful VOC off-gases such as Benzene and Formaldehyde.
The device has a light indicator that changes color as the quality of air changes. It has four distinct operating modes such as Auto, Fan, Silent, and Night Mode. We love the auto setting which detects the air quality in the room automatically and adjusts accordingly. The low running sound ensures that you enjoy undisturbed sleep.
Product Features/ Specifications
- Measures 25 x 7.5 x 14 inches
- Covers up to 1000 sq. ft.
- Auto Sensor
- Energy Efficient
- Whisper Quiet Operation
- No-Hassle Return Policy
- True HEPA Filter
User/ Customer Impression
Those who have bought this air purifier have been pleased with the results and impressed by the auto-sensing mode which enables the device to detect any smell or toxic gases and adjust the settings by itself. People with allergies have noticed a real difference after using this product and it has also helped many users enjoy better sleep. Its noiseless operation and the good customer service offered the company are also much appreciated.
Conclusion
The advanced IonCluster Technology and true HEPA filter of this air purifier make it particularly effective at controlling odor and purifying the air. It can also cover an area of 1000 square feet with ease, which comes as a bonus at this price point. Overall, we definitely recommend this product!
4. Austin HealthMate Air Purifier
If you are looking for an air purifier that offers ultimate protection for people suffering from chemical sensitivity then the Austin HealthMate Air Purifier is a good option. It is regarded as a comprehensive air purifying solution that not only traps 99.97% of air-borne pollutants. It also offers other benefits, such as reduced snoring, better sleep, reduced asthma attacks, and less nighttime allergies.
This air purifier comes equipped with an activated carbon/charcoal filter that not only traps dust, but also smoke, benzene, formaldehyde, and other types of VOCs. The filter is capable of trapping particles as small as 0.3 microns. According to the manufacturers, it can help people with pre-existing conditions and remove the toughest contaminants in the air. We were also impressed by the device’s ability to purify the air in areas up to 1500 square feet.
Product Features and Specifications
- Measures 23″h x 14.5″w x 14.5″d
- 147-watt Multiple
- 5-year warranty
- Chemically Sensitive (MCS)
- Coverage area up to 1500 sq. ft.
- Removes viruses and bacteria
- Perforated intake housing
- True HEPA filter
- 3-speed control switch
- CSA and UL approved
User/ Customer Impressions
People find this a life-saving little machine that protects them from breathing in hazardous gasses and reduces the risk of health problems. The wheels at the bottom are highly useful as they help users move the purifier from one room to another with ease. Some customers have cautioned that it creates a lot of noise on a high setting, but it’s not unbearable.
Conclusion
The Austin HealthMate (shop now) has everything that it takes to be one of the best air purifiers for VOCs and formaldehyde. It is also capable of removing viruses, bacteria and other airborne chemicals. More than anything else, we like the 5-year warranty that makes this a good deal despite the high price.
5. NuWave OXYPURE Smart Air Purifier
If you are looking for an air purifier capable of covering a large surface area to eliminate mold, dust, smoke, pollen, allergens, pet dander, bacteria, viruses, toxic gases and VOCs, then the NuWave OXYPURE Smart Air Purifier is a good option. It comprises of a four-filter system that helps in eliminating the airborne particles that irritate lungs, nasal passages, and sinuses. The filters are built from sturdy material and can last for up to 20 years.
The auto-monitoring system and smart-touch controls make the NuWave OxyPure an energy-efficient device that consumes less energy than a number of other purifiers. We were impressed to find that the product has been certified by top industrial organizations such as the California Air Review Board (CARB), the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Energy Star).
Product Features and Specifications
- Measures 14 x 14 x 26 inches
- Wi-Fi Enabled
- Three Certifications
- 360-Degree Air Intake
- Stainless-Steel Pre-Filter
- Bio-Guard Filter
- Ozone Removal Filter
- HEPA Carbon Filter
- Six Fan Speeds
- Sleep and Energy Efficient Modes
User/ Customer Impressions
People who live in old houses or in areas impacted by wildfires have experienced a big difference in the air quality after using this product. Users have mentioned that this product works as advertised and the three replacement filters are both sturdy and long-lasting, making it worth every penny.
Conclusion
After examining the product and going through customer reviews, we believe that this product has been carefully designed and built to do a brilliant job without breaking the bank. If you are looking for a robust and decent quality air purifier at a reasonable price, the NuWave OXYPURE Smart Air Purifier is certainly worth considering.
6. Airpura F600: Formaldehyde, VOCs, and Particles
If you are concerned about the level of airborne particles, formaldehyde, and other VOCs in the air, then the Airpura F600 from one of Canada’s leading air purifier manufacturers is a good solution. While the company has many air purifying models, the Airpura F600 (see more) is specially built to fight against the presence of formaldehyde in indoor air. The ‘F’ in its name stands for formaldehyde, but it also eliminates other volatile gases and harmful airborne particles.
The Airpura F600 comprises of a 3-stage filter that includes a poly pre-filter that traps large particles like pet hair and dander, an activated carbon filter to remove toxic formaldehyde and VOCs, and a true HEPA filter to eliminate 99.97% of air-borne particles. The activated carbon filter is smaller in size to accommodate the true HEPA filter, and the noise level of the device is almost negligible.
Product Features/ Specifications
- Covers up to 2000 sq ft
- 560 cfm airflow
- 93% recyclable
- 360° Distribution airflow
- 3-stage air cleaning system
- low power consumption
- powder coat steel body
- Powerful airflow with high CADR
- Comes with casters
- 2 yrs parts and 5 years labor warranty
- Made in Canada
User/ Customer Impression
Those who have bought this product are pleased with how well it has been designed to deal with formaldehyde and other heavy toxic gases in the air. People have noticed a difference in air quality after use, while the low noise does not interfere with sleep at night.
Conclusion
We liked this product at first glance due to its sleek and stylish looks, but we wondered how the performance would stand up to the expectations and it came spot on. Our team was happy to find that this is a product specifically built to deal with germs, dust, and pet dander, as well as the highly poisonous gases in old buildings or new houses undergoing wooden work.
7. Formaldehyde Fumes Remover – Eraldehyde-180F
This is a floor-standing but portable air purifying device that includes an EC-181F cartridge equipped with formaldehyde-removing technology. The Eraldehyde in the cartridge helps in removing formaldehyde vapors from indoor air to give you healthy breathable air. This product is perfectly designed to use in a nail salon or beauty salon where the professionals use nail paint and other chemicals for hair coloring and straightening treatments.
The Eraldehyde (learn more) does a good job at removing toxic gases and exchanging the room air more than 3 times per hour in a medium-sized room (180 sq. ft). For a larger area of up to 540 sq. ft., it can clean the air once per hour. The device comes with two cartridges that can last for several months depending on the frequency of use. It also includes a washable dust filter that prevents the cartridges from clogging due to excessive dust.
Product Features and Specifications
- Measures 10 x 7 x 26 inches inches
- Removes toxic gases released from Defective Laminate Floors
- Eliminates formaldehyde from mid-size rooms
- Also removes other VOCs that are by EPA
- EC-181F cartridges installed
- One-year warranty on parts
User/ Customer Impressions
People who have used this purifier in their salons and spas have noticed a significant difference in the odor caused by chemicals used in hair straightening, coloring and nail painting. Most users have said that it reduced the occurrence of headaches at the workplace. Others have confirmed that the appliance has fared well in most cases even when using it for several hours per day.
Conclusion
If you own a small nail or hair salon, you may want to invest in this little powerful device to improve the quality of indoor air. This is a small step you can take to ensure the comfort of both your salon staff and customers. Overall, this is certainly a product worth buying at this price.
5 Key Things To Consider Before Buying An Air Purifier
We believe that the needs of different customers will largely vary depending on their location, the type of interior work inside the house, their surroundings and so on. Now that we have reviewed all of the top products on our list, here are a few things that will help you pick the most suitable air purifier for VOCs and Formaldehyde.
1. Deciding the right size
One of the most important points to consider is the size of an air purifier, and this directly depends on the area that you wish to cover and cleanse. To determine the right size, we suggest that you consider the square footage area of the room that you wish to purify. This can be calculated by measuring the length and width of the area and multiplying them together.
If you have respiratory issues, asthma, or allergies, you may want to look for a product that specifically helps in managing your symptoms. We suggest that you consider an air purifier that exchanges air at least once per hour. ACH values indicate the number of times a device purifies air within an hour. The standard sizes include small, medium, and large rooms, and the whole house.
2. Type of filter
The quality of the filter used in an air purifier determines its effectiveness, and specific filters are used for targeting the different components of air. The most common type is the HEPA or High-Efficiency Particulate Air filter, which is capable of eliminating up to 99.9% of airborne particles as small as 0.3-microns in size.
Some models come with additional filters capable of trapping ultrafine particles that are invisible to the eye and finer than 0.3 microns. Please note that HEPA filters cannot remove odors. If you are concerned about bad odors, choose a device that includes an activated carbon filter along with true HEPA filter. We also suggest that you choose a product that includes a pre-filter to extend the lifespan of the product.
3. Special Features
Besides the type of filter used in the air purifier, there are several other features that increase the user-friendliness of a device and make it even more useful. Some of the additional features you may want to consider are caster wheels for easy mobility, digital controls, multiple fan speeds, filter change indicators, handles, air quality sensors, remote controls, and many more.
If you look at higher-end products, you will also find models that come with smart features such as connectivity with a mobile phone, wi-fi and so on. To reduce electricity consumption and save money, we recommend buying air purifiers that are Energy Star-rated.
4. Where to keep the air purifier
Most people prefer to keep an air purifier in the bedroom or living area as this is where the family spends most of their time. Even if you buy a portable device, it can only purify one room at a time, so you may want to buy multiple devices to meet your needs. Alternatively, you may prefer to buy a device with caster wheels or handles to move it from one room to another with ease.
Another popular option these days is a whole-house air purifier. These devices are typically connected with HVAC systems to purify indoor air while it cools, heats, or ventilates the house.
5. Maintenance needs
To keep your air purifier running in the best condition, you need to ensure that you replace the filters regularly at the recommended interval mentioned by the manufacturer. If the unit uses multiple filters, you would need to change them at different times. For example, the HEPA filter may last for a year but the activated carbon filter lasts only for six months. The pre-filter may only last as little as 3 months.
When looking at different air purifier models, it is important to take into account the frequency and cost involved for filter replacements. The maximum life span for any filter is usually mentioned in the product specifications. To keep things simple, many models use combination filters and only one of them needs to be replaced.
Related Questions
How can I monitor air quality in my home?
We recommend that you invest in a good quality air monitoring device such as the Airthings Radon & Air Quality Monitor. It is capable of detecting multiple gases, humidity levels, air-borne chemicals, and mold, among other pollutants. It can be used anytime and anywhere in the house to monitor indoor air quality.
Are the UV air purifiers safe to use?
Ultraviolet light can be dangerous, but fortunately, UV purifiers are safe to use. However, bear in mind that some UV air purifiers may produce ozone, which can be harmful to pets, plants, and even humans to some extent. Therefore, we suggest that you purchase an ozone-free UV air purifier like the Hathaspace Smart True HEPA Air Purifier.
How long do VOCs usually last?
Some types of VOCs such as those released by a fresh coat of paint may dissipate quickly or may stick around for up to six months after application. However, there are other sources such as particleboard that may continue to release gases for 20 years or even more.
What are other ways of removing VOCs?
Small changes can bring a big difference is lowering the level of VOCs inside your home. Start by choosing natural products instead of commercial ones, such as cleaning solutions and room fresheners. Add more ventilation to your home by opening a window or installing an exhaust fan.
Store the leftover paints, pesticides, and chemicals away in the garage or shed. Decorate your home with indoor houseplants that enhance the décor while also absorbing harmful gases.
See Also:
8 Best Air Purifier For Bacteria And Viruses
6 Best Air Purifier For Construction Dust
Can I Use Air Purifier And Diffuser At The Same Time?
Can An Air Purifier Help You Sleep Better?