Saving money is good, but not every cheap item is worth buying—especially when they may contain formaldehyde, a toxic substance classified by the WHO as a carcinogen. From personal items and kitchenware to furniture, low-quality, inexpensive products can silently disrupt hormones, increase cancer risk, and shorten lifespan.

Based on expert warnings, here are six items that are likely to contain formaldehyde and should be avoided as much as possible:

1. Cheap plastic food containers
   Ultra-cheap food containers (3,000–5,000 VND) are often made from recycled plastic and may contain formaldehyde or BPA. When holding hot food, these chemicals can leach into it, disrupting hormones and increasing the risk of breast and colon cancer. Users often notice the containers yellowing quickly and having an unpleasant odor.
   Alternative: Choose food-grade PP (polypropylene) containers or glass containers. PP plastic, stainless steel, or glass containers are safer options.

2. Cheap pressed-wood furniture
   Low-priced pressed wood cabinets, shelves, and tables often use adhesives containing formaldehyde. This chemical evaporates into the air, irritating the eyes and nose and increasing the risk of lung and nasopharyngeal cancer with long-term inhalation. Many people complain about the strong, pungent smell from cheap furniture—this is a sign of formaldehyde.
   Alternative: Opt for solid wood or E1/E0-grade pressed wood furniture (low formaldehyde emission). Products from reputable brands with market-appropriate pricing and safety certifications are more reliable.

3. Cheap wall paints and coatings
   Wall paint priced under 80,000 VND/liter often contains formaldehyde as a preservative. As it dries, the chemical evaporates, causing headaches and dizziness, and long-term exposure may lead to leukemia or liver damage. Many families who use cheap paint report strong chemical odors lasting for months.
   Alternative: Choose water-based or oil-based paints labeled “low VOC” or “formaldehyde-free.” Paints priced around 200,000 VND/liter are safer and free of harsh smells.

4. Cheap sofa upholstery and curtains
   Budget sofas and curtains often use synthetic fabrics treated with formaldehyde to reduce wrinkling. This chemical can evaporate and irritate the skin and eyes, with long-term exposure increasing the risk of lung cancer. Many people report a lingering chemical smell from inexpensive sofas.
   Alternative: Choose sofas and curtains made from OEKO-TEX-certified cotton or polyester, which are free from formaldehyde.

5. Cheap children’s toys
   Extremely cheap plastic toys or painted items (under 20,000 VND) often contain formaldehyde in the paint or adhesive. Children exposed through skin or mouth contact risk allergies, nerve damage, and leukemia. These toys also tend to fade quickly and emit strong chemical odors.
   Alternative: Buy toys from reputable brands with safety certifications like CE or ASTM. Natural wooden toys or non-toxic ABS plastic toys priced from 50,000 VND are safer choices.

6. Cheap toilet paper and tissues
   Ultra-cheap toilet paper and tissues are often made from poorly processed recycled pulp, which may contain formaldehyde or dioxin from bleaching agents. These substances can be absorbed through the skin, causing irritation, hormone disruption, and increasing skin cancer risk. Users of low-quality tissue often report itching or discomfort in sensitive areas.
   Alternative: Choose products from trusted brands, certified by FSC or labeled chlorine-free.

General Tips for Safe Shopping

• Check labels and prioritize products with certifications like “formaldehyde-free,” “low VOC,” E1/E0, OEKO-TEX, or FSC. Avoid items with unknown origins.

• Invest in durable, safe items from reputable brands instead of frequently replacing cheap, low-quality ones. One good item that lasts 5–10 years is more cost-effective in the long run.

• Smell before you buy: if a sofa, curtain, or plastic item has a strong chemical odor, avoid it. Regularly wash curtains and sofa covers, and clean furniture with warm water to reduce chemical buildup. For toys and tissue, opt for unscented products to protect your health.

Avoiding cheap, high-risk items and making smart purchasing decisions will help protect your home and promote a healthier life.