Dimethylformamide (DMF) is a colourless liquid with only a slight, unpleasant odour; smell is, therefore, not a useful warning signal. DMF is usually stable but, when it comes into contact with strong oxidizers, halogens, alkylaluminium, or halogenated hydrocarbons (especially in combination with metals), it may cause fires and explosions. DMF is completely miscible with water and most organic solvents. It has a relatively low vapour pressure.