Is your toxic furniture making you sick?
Many people don’t realize that their furniture may be polluting the air quality in their home, as well as contribute to certain illnesses. There are many furniture pieces that we can talk about, but today I will focus on wood/engineered wood. Given how popular engineered wood is, I feel that it’s important to discuss this.
All wood contain trace amounts of naturally occurring formaldehyde. The levels can vary depending on what sealants or stains are used. But, manufactured woods like particleboard, MDF, plywood etc are the most unsafe when talking about air quality. Not only is formaldehyde often present, but several other toxic chemicals (like benzene, toluene, etc) as well. These chemicals (known as VOCs-volatile organic compounds) come as a result of urea-formaldehyde-containing glues, flame retardants (for pieces containing foam), insect pesticide treatments, waxes, and water repellent/resistant treatments. These toxic chemicals get emitted into the air (off-gassing), and this process can go on for years.
Why is this such an issue?
These chemicals are known carcinogens, allergens and developmental/reproductive toxins according to both state and federal law. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen according to the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer). If they’re being released into the air and becoming a part of dust, then you and others in the home are inhaling it. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) makes it clear that there are dangers from home furnishings! This is a major health risk that increases the chances and rates of asthma, allergies, respiratory illnesses and other serious health conditions, according to the EPA and National Cancer Institute. An example of how prevalent this is can be seen by what’s known as sick building syndrome. Unfortunately, indoor dwellings can be toxic to health.
Shouldn’t companies be mindful of this stuff?
Let’s see…In 2015, it was revealed that Lumber Liquidators (flooring company) had been selling Chinese-made laminate floors packed with these chemicals (VOCs) mentioned above. They had been falsely claiming that the floors complied with the California Air Resource Board and they hadn’t. They basically lied! People were getting sick after installing these toxic laminate floors in their homes. This led to an investigation, which later led to a $33 million fine.
Sadly, we don’t know how many other companies may be dishonest about their safety and compliance claims.
So what can you do to ensure that your home is safe?
Below are some things to consider when purchasing wood products:
- Look for labels indicating formaldehyde-free
- Understand that NAUF (no added urea formaldehyde) doesn’t mean no formaldehyde. It may contain “phenol formaldehyde” which is still problematic.
- Aim for 100% VOC-free oil finishes if possible
- Aim for finishes that are Prop 65 compliant which ensures they’re lead-, cadmium, phthalate-free.
- Opt for solid wood. There is however a slight difference between hardwood and softwood
- Find companies that offer less toxic options
- Take steps to improve the air quality of your home
Does this feel overwhelming? Are you looking to learn all the ways to improve the air quality of your home or budget-friendly steps to take? I now offer consultation services and would love to help make things less stressful and more doable for you!
Good Luck on your journey to less toxic living and better health 💋
