Formalin question

[Romanko]

You've figured it out by now but still...

When getting to this stage should I remove the film from the reel while doing this last step? Will formaldehyde affect plastic reels in any way?

No and no. You could also check your C-41 chemistry MSDs. If you find something like hexamine in the stabilizer you probably don't need formaldehyde.

The concentration is quite small but still avoid breathing the fumes and make sure you have adequate ventilation in the room where you dry your negatives.

 

[What About Bob]

You could also check your C-41 chemistry MSDs. If you find something like hexamine in the stabilizer you probably don't need formaldehyde.

No hexamine. Looking on the bottle It is "2, 2 Oxydiethanol" and something C12 - C15 Ethoxylated? Seems cryptic. Stuff is very foamy if agitated too much.