Toxins in Your Furniture? Here’s What to Look For

Furniture manufacturing involves the use of various chemicals that can potentially pose health risks to consumers. While regulations and industry practices have evolved to reduce the use of toxic substances, it is crucial for consumers to understand the potential hazards associated with certain chemicals. This article aims to provide insights into commonly used toxic chemicals, their health impacts, how to read labels for chemical information, banned substances, and efforts made by American furniture manufacturers to mitigate their use.

Commonly used toxic chemicals in furniture manufacturing

• Formaldehyde: Found in adhesives, coatings, and finishes, formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen that can also cause respiratory issues.
• Flame Retardants: Chemicals like PBDEs and TDCPP, added to furniture foam and upholstery, can lead to hormone disruption and environmental concerns.
• Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Present in furniture finishes, adhesives, and paints, VOCs contribute to poor indoor air quality and can have adverse health effects.
• Chlorinated Solvents: Used in furniture finishing and cleaning processes, these solvents pose risks to human health and the environment.
• Phthalates: Often found in plastic furniture components, phthalates have been associated with hormone disruption and various health issues.
• Bisphenol A (BPA): Used in furniture coatings and plastics, BPA is an endocrine disruptor with potential health concerns.
• Perfluorinated Compounds (PFCs): Used in stain and water-resistant finishes, certain PFCs have raised health and environmental concerns.
• Chromium VI (Hexavalent Chromium): Used in furniture coatings and finishes, it is a known human carcinogen and can cause skin irritation.
• Methylene Chloride: Found in furniture refinishing and paint stripping, this chemical poses serious health risks, including cancer and organ damage.
• Lead: Though its use has decreased, lead-based paints were historically used on furniture, posing risks of lead exposure.

Reading labels for chemical information

To identify if toxic chemicals were used in furniture manufacturing, consumers can follow these steps:

• Look for certifications: Certifications like GREENGUARD, OEKO-TEX, and CertiPUR-US indicate low emissions or absence of harmful substances.
• Check for material composition: Look for labels that provide information on materials used, especially regarding coatings, finishes, and foam.
• Research specific brands: Visit the manufacturer’s website or contact them directly to inquire about their chemical usage and safety practices.

Health impacts of toxic chemicals

• Formaldehyde: Linked to cancer, respiratory issues, and allergic reactions.
• Flame Retardants: Hormone disruption, environmental persistence, and potential developmental and neurological effects.
• VOCs: Respiratory irritation, headaches, and long-term exposure can contribute to organ damage and cancer.
• Chlorinated Solvents: Skin and respiratory irritation, liver and kidney damage, and environmental contamination.
• Phthalates: Hormone disruption, reproductive and developmental issues, and potential links to asthma and allergies.
• BPA: Endocrine disruption, potential reproductive and developmental effects, and links to certain cancers.
• PFCs: Potential hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and environmental persistence.
• Chromium VI: Skin irritation, respiratory issues, and an increased risk of lung cancer.
• Methylene Chloride: Carcinogenicity, liver and lung toxicity, and nervous system effects.
• Lead: Neurological damage, developmental issues, and adverse effects on multiple organs.

Bans on toxic chemicals in furniture

Several countries and regions have implemented bans or restrictions on certain toxic chemicals in furniture manufacturing. These bans aim to protect consumer health and the environment. Here are a few notable examples:

• Formaldehyde: The European Union has established strict emission standards for formaldehyde in wood-based panels used in furniture manufacturing. California’s Air Resources Board (CARB) also has regulations limiting formaldehyde emissions from composite wood products.
• Flame Retardants: Some jurisdictions, such as California, have implemented restrictions on specific flame retardants, including PBDEs and TDCPP, in upholstered furniture. The European Union has banned several flame retardants and introduced regulations that require manufacturers to assess the safety of alternative flame retardants before use.
• Lead: The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in the United States has restricted the use of lead-based paints on furniture and other consumer products due to the well-known health risks associated with lead exposure.
• Phthalates: The European Union has restricted the use of certain phthalates in products, including furniture, intended for children under three years old.

It is important to note that these bans and restrictions may vary across countries and regions. Staying informed about local regulations and certifications can help consumers make informed choices when purchasing furniture.

Industry mitigation efforts by american furniture manufacturers

Recognizing the importance of producing safer furniture, many American furniture manufacturers have taken proactive steps to mitigate the use of toxic chemicals. Some of these efforts include: