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My Chemical-Free House

A Guide to Creating a Healthy Home

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A Complete Guide to Non-Toxic Sofa Brands | 2022

May 8, 2021 by Corinne 156 Comments

This is a complete list of eco-friendly non-toxic sofa brands.

I start with the best of the best non-toxic sofas, digging into what’s really in them, this is followed by a “next best” list, and then a look at some simpler and more affordable options.

Non-Toxic Sofas and Couches – What to Look For:

  • Natural cushion fill such as natural latex, cotton, down, and wool.
  • No chemical/formaldehyde treatments on the fabric (such as stain and water-resistant coatings, especially PFAS).
  • Eco Leather – Conventional leather is made with toxic dyes and treatments. Some folks may prefer leather due to the ability to wipe it down. Brands that use safer leather are covered in a dedicated post.
  • Solid wood construction, not formaldehyde filled pressed wood products.
  • Zero or low-VOC glues, stains, and varnishes
  • Flame retardant free (my post on flame retardants goes into detail on which ones we want to avoid) but the picks here are all FR free.
  • Polyurethane does offgas at low levels, but I don’t rule it out completely. Make sure it is flame retardant free (“Soy Foam” is still polyurethane with some soy). I avoid memory foam which is higher in offgassing.
  • GOTS certified fabrics and GOLS certified latex are best – which are explained in this post on certifications.

Many of the companies below also offer upholstered chairs, recliners, and non-toxic sofa beds/sleeper sofas. You will have to choose between polyurethane or natural latex in the beds.

I recommend all of the products here, some products have affiliate programs and some do not. Upon purchase, I earn a small commission through affiliate links at no extra cost to you.

The 8 Top Non-Toxic Sofa Brands You Can Buy Online

1. Medley

a grey squarish sofa from Medley with a wooden base

Medley sofas are made with either polyurethane or organic natural latex, no-VOC glues, no flame retardants, fabric options that are all-natural or organic (none contain PFAS), solid alder frames with natural or zero-VOC finishes, and organic cotton internal frame lining. 

They offer a sample kit which is really helpful for those who want to check out the materials first.

If you are looking for a hypoallergenic option this sample box will help to narrow in on what you are allergic to. Medley is a top pick for most people with allergies and sensitivities.

They carry loveseats, standard size sofas, sectionals, and sleeper sofas.

They offer leather as an upholstery option. It’s semi-aniline leather with a water-based coating on top, which I talk more about in the leather furniture post.

Made in the USA. Delivery to the US, Canada, and beyond.

Start at $1500

a black and white button that says buy that you can click on

You can use code MyChemFreeHouse5 for 5% off.

2. The Futon Shop

A light turquoise colored L-shaped sofa

The Futon Shop has a sofa called Daisy Organic Natural Sofa.

It’s made with solid pine (no glues) and has various options for the fill.

The seat cushion fill options include wool with coils, wool, and latex, or all three. You can change the main fill to PLA or upgrade to organic wool and latex.

The base arms and back of the sofa are made with natural latex, coconut coir, and natural wool encased in fabric.

The fabric options include organic cotton, linen, and wool. They said all their fabrics are free of PFAS.

They make chairs, loveseats, sofas, and sectionals.

Made in the USA they can provide you with a quote if you are shipping outside of the contiguous 48 states.

Start at $1800 for the sofas.

a black and white button that says buy that you can click on

4. EcoBalanza

A dark brown sofa from EcoBlanaza with very low arm rests

These handmade, customized sofas are high quality and made with traditional methods – and that means less glue and more material options.

They use organic wool, organic cotton, GOLS certified organic natural Dunlop latex, and GOTS certified fabrics, free of PFAS. No flame retardants are used anywhere. Kapok and down are offered in some configurations.

They use non-toxic zero-VOC glues and Rubio Monocoat stains. They can use a different finish if the customer is sensitive to Rubio, or they can leave it unfinished. Solid wood frames are made of alder and beech, ash is usually used for the legs.

They can also accommodate a latex allergy by completely leaving out and replacing the latex.

They make 3 seaters, loveseats, and sectionals. (They also make chairs, ottomans, bed frames, and headboards).

They make leather sofas with EcoPell leather which is unsealed, vegetable-tanned, and free of heavy metals. It’s the only truly safe leather on the list – I go into detail on why that is here.

This is the most customizable brand on the list. The Essential Collection is more of option than a collection, and is a more affordable option.

Handmade in Seattle, they ship to all states and to Canada.

Start at $3800

a black and white button that says buy that you can click on

5. Sabai

Sabai sofas are made with recycled fabrics (some from polyethylene water bottles), and the fabric contains no stain guard treatments like PFAS.

They use solid wood inside the sofa, no glues are used in the sofa, and the stain on the legs is low-VOC.

A nice bonus is that 90% of the materials are sourced within 100 miles of production.

They do not use any flame retardants.

Prices start at $1300, use this link for $60 off.

a black and white button that says buy that you can click on

6. PURE

A deep blue modern sofa with wood feet from PURE

Pure sofas are made with organic latex with a feather and down wrap, solid maple wood, organic wool, GOTS certified organic cotton (no PFAS in that), GreenGuard certified water-based glue, and Rubio Monocoat wood finish on legs. No flame retardants are used.

They offer sofas, loveseats, sectionals, some sleeper sofas, and a recliner. (Out of the top tier eco companies this is the only one that makes a non-toxic recliner).

Made in America. They ship to the 48 contiguous states. It’s possible to order one to Canada but you need a customs broker.

Start at $1400

a black and white button that says buy that you can click on

You can mention My Chemical-Free House for 5% off.

3. Cisco Brothers

A modern beige colored sofa from Cisco brothers

Cisco Brothers sofas are either the Essentials Collection or they can be made with the Inside Green option. The base line is called Essentials Collection which contains hardwood (no plywood), typically alder or maple, polyurethane foam, and cushions with goose feathers & down. Fabrics are washed to remove any residual dust or chemicals.

The Inside Green option contains organic natural latex instead of polyurethane, wrapped in either eco wool or feathers & down. They use certified solid woods, organic cotton fabrics with no toxic treatments, jute and hemp instead of springs, and WOCA natural stains.

No flame retardants are used.

They make sofas, loveseats, and sectionals.

Made in the USA. Sold at locations throughout the US and Canada and online through Urban Natural.

Starts at $2300. The “Inside Green” option starts at $3400

a black and white button that says buy that you can click on

7. Carolina Morning

A simple alternative sofa with a slated wood frame and a futon like cushion on top

The wooden structure is made from regionally harvested Appalachian poplar wood, finished with Vermont Natural Coatings finish.

The futon covers are an organic 100% cotton canvas (in eight colors), and they are filled with kapok fiber. The kapok is grown without herbicides and pesticides. Their organic fabrics are GOTS certified, they won’t be treated with PFAS.

Carolina Morning sofas are made with the chemically sensitive in mind, and they go to good lengths to keep out added chemicals.

$2,350

a black and white button that says buy that you can click on

8. Savvy Rest Couch

Made with solid maple (no plywood or particleboard), GOTS-certified organic upholstery (hemp and/or cotton), natural latex wrapped in organic wool, and the option of linseed oil finished or unfinished feet.

No flame retardants are used. They make sofas, loveseats, and upholstered chairs.

Made in America they ship to all states and Canada. I have not been happy with their customer service personally.

Next Best Options

The next best options are sofas free of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These are my criteria:

  • No use of per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances is a top priority in terms of avoiding persistent chemicals. Only a few sofa brands, apart from the above 8 options, are free of PFAS.
  • Solid wood or plywood inside the sofa are preferred. Particleboard can be considered but has more offgassing.
  • No flame retardants.
  • No memory foam (that is higher in offgassing than regular foam).

1. Pottery Barn Eco Sofa

Pottery Barn has options that I would consider in their green line. The down blend is 50% polyester fiber, 45% duck feather, and 5% duck down. After emailing the company, it sounds like the down option has no foam. Some of their other sofas are made with polyurethane.

They use solid wood inside the construction and some of the fabric options are GOTS certified organic cotton. (This sets them apart from most other large national big brands). GOTS certified fabrics are free of PFAS.

Priced from $1000 – $2900

2. Burrow Sofas

Burrow sofas are free of PFAS, the olefin fabrics are inherently stain resistant. The website says they use solid wood inside the sofa, but they also use plywood (looks like plywood with fiberboard layers).

Starting at $1500, you can get $75 off with this link.

3. IKEA Sofas

The standard IKEA sofas (i.e. not the futons) are made with particleboard, which offgasses some formaldehyde; regular polyester fabric not treated with perfluorinated chemicals (PFAS including PFOS, PFOA, PFOSA); and polyurethane foam cushions which are low in offgassing and free of flame retardants.

The main difference between IKEA and the “greener” brands above is the use of particleboard.

IKEA sells loveseats, sofas, sectionals, sofa beds, upholstered chairs, and recliners.

Prices start from $250

4. Crate and Barrel

Crate and Barrel eliminated PFAS and flame retardants from their upholstery. However, I did hear from one of the fabric makers that they do use PFAS in 2021: Babyletto’s fabric company Livesmart by Culp confirmed that the Crate and Kids Babyletto Kiwi is made with .15% PFAS.

Some of the sofas I looked at had engineered wood (plywood probably) and some had solid wood inside.

There was standard polyurethane foam on the ones I reviewed with no flame retardants.

The fabric swatches had an odor that was hard to describe, something similar to a very light rubber smell.

They sell sofas, loveseats, sectionals, sleeper sofas, upholstered chairs, and recliners.

Prices start at about $1000

5. Room and Board

Room and Board has also eliminated PFAS from their fabrics. This was written in an industry document and confirmed in writing by their products reps.

Some of the fabrics are GreenGuard Gold certified but I couldn’t pick up any major difference between those and their regular fabrics.

The frames are made from solid wood. The foam is regular polyurethane that is free of flame retardants, I did not see any memory foam options.

They sell sofas, loveseats, sectionals, day beds, sofa beds, upholstered chairs, and recliners.

Prices start at $1200

6. Vegan Polyurethane Leather Couches

This is not a brand, but a type of sofa to look for that I consider non-toxic and safe is a polyurethane (PU) faux leather sofa.

Whenever looking at faux leather check to see what kind of plastic it is. It could be PVC, PU, or nylon. I avoid PVC faux leather.

I like PU because it doesn’t contain plasticizers, PFAS, or other stain guard chemicals, it’s low odor – and even that will pass. It also is quite a good block of VOCs or semi-VOCs that could be coming from inside the couch.

  • Elodie Finch makes a cute PU leather sofa for about $1000.
  • Pottery Barn Teen makes a really cool lounger chair out of PU for $300.

(Other: by 2022 Target will have eliminated PFAs from textiles).

Alternative Sofa Options: Simple and Affordable 

Daybeds and Futons

Metal Daybeds

A metal daybed with a lower bed that pulls out from below

If you are highly chemically sensitive or you just want something simpler and cheaper, you could try a metal daybed from Walmart, IKEA, or Amazon and put a non-toxic mattress of your choosing on it.

Some of the metal daybed frames will accommodate a MondoKing Thermarest.



Futons

A futon in couch position
An option from Amazon

You can buy simple futons with a wood or metal base from Amazon or IKEA.

IKEA makes a futon and simple metal-based sofa that contains polyurethane foam (no flame retardants). This option cuts back on other toxic materials used in regular sofas.

A simple sofa with a washable cover can be an asset to those with sensitivities and allergies who need to launder items often.

An even simpler option from IKEA is the Hammarn little futon for $129. This has a metal frame, and only a small amount of polyurethane (no flame retardants).

A simple option like this can be quite non-toxic and offgas rather quickly, especially after a little time airing out.

The more polyurethane, the more you have to offgas. Not all futons have foam though. You have to check what the fill is.

The more components you have inside a typical sofa, the more offgassing you have from pressed wood products, stains, and glues. Futons eliminate pressed wood products and cut down on glues used. They often don’t have stains.

Metal frames eliminate all offgassing of both stains and wood glues.

If you want a proper futon bed for sleeping made of truly safe or natural materials check out my post on mattresses where I outline a number of options in this category.

Outdoor Furniture

A outdoor sofa and coffee table made of real wood and simple square cushions

You could also look at outdoor furniture to be used either outside or inside.

The benefit here would be the simplicity of the design. Metal, plastic or solid wood as the base. Cushions that can be left outside to offgas or replaced with a cushion of your choice.

Outdoor cushions are made with either polyurethane or polyester fill and the covers can have waterproofing on them, but because of the ability to remove them from the sofa and offgas them, this could be a simple, affordable and healthy option for many.

IKEA outdoor furniture is free of PFOAs/PFCs.

There are three options you might find on Amazon: solid wood outdoor sofas, metal-framed outdoor sofas, and plastic-based outdoor sofas.


Related posts:

  • Furniture
  • Mattresses
  • Rugs

Corinne Segura is a Building Biologist Practitioner with 7 years of experience helping others create healthy homes

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Filed Under: Healthy Interiors Tagged With: healthy decor, healthy interiors

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Leadley says

    May 11, 2022 at 1:58 am

    PSA: Medley sofas have lead in their foam. https://tamararubin.com/2021/12/foam-cushion-inserts-from-popular-non-toxic-los-angeles-based-sofa-brand-test-positive-for-lead-arsenic-this-product-is-marketed-as-lead-free/

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      May 11, 2022 at 12:43 pm

      I reported on that when it happened but they have fixed the problem. Also most sofas use the same foam, it was not a brand specific problem. Most don’t test for lead though. Medley is very careful and also did an incredible job with the recall.

      Reply
      • NotLeadley? says

        May 11, 2022 at 10:45 pm

        OK, thank you. I hope they learned from it and do continual QA testing on their products now. Though it’s disconcerting that they didn’t do thorough testing themselves as a health-conscious brand, it seems like they might care and make more of an effort than the rest of the market, to their credit.

        Reply
        • Corinne says

          May 12, 2022 at 3:05 pm

          The foam is certified to not have added lead, it’s the responsibility of the certifier to do that. If everything certified would have to be double checked, it just really would not be possible. I don’t think any other brand has checked their foam.

          Reply
  2. m says

    April 26, 2022 at 8:41 pm

    Hi
    Am looking at a Savvy couch. Possible to explain more about the poor customer service experience ?

    The price on Savvy does look like a decent value. Would you recommend?

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      April 27, 2022 at 1:48 pm

      Yes if you like it it could be good. They weren’t very helpful with me.

      Reply
      • m says

        May 2, 2022 at 10:14 pm

        Could you clarify what the problem was with Savvy?

        Were not helpful? Problem with ordering ?

        Wonderful site. thank you.

        Reply
  3. Anais says

    March 26, 2022 at 8:35 pm

    Hi Corinne, I thought Pottery Barn uses Crypton Home Performance? The Crypton Home Performance still contains C6 (PFAs).

    Reply
  4. Glen says

    March 24, 2022 at 6:00 pm

    Hi Corinne,
    Thanks for the information. With an old textile (not leather) couch eg over 10 years, Would any PFAS or flame retardants have finished off-gassing or could it still be a concern? – I have no idea what is in it!
    Kind regards,
    Glen

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      March 24, 2022 at 7:37 pm

      Flame retardants comme out forever, and get worst with time. PFAS probably all worn off.

      Reply
  5. Katie says

    March 5, 2022 at 3:26 am

    Wish I had found your info sooner…. What do you know about Arhaus Pavo sofa? Mine arrived today and I woke up at 3 am with watery eyes and feel like there’s some sort of allergen in my house now. What might be causing this?

    Reply
    • Katie says

      March 13, 2022 at 1:28 pm

      Couch is going back. 8 days later and the smell is still strong and I don’t want it here anymore. Thoughts on Ethan Allen couch?

      Reply
      • Corinne says

        March 13, 2022 at 3:58 pm

        I haven’t looked at that one.

        Reply
  6. Valerie says

    February 28, 2022 at 6:58 pm

    Hi. Do you know if sitting a couch outside in the sun with the covers removed.. would this help to off gas the couch? Its one from Ikea where the covers are removable. its the poly or whatever the material is for the couch that smells.. the covers are fine after washing them multiple times. just curious if the sun helps to pull the smells out for Ikea type materials?

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      March 2, 2022 at 1:38 pm

      Yes heat and air help, UV breaks down foam so I wouldn’t leave it out too long but if you don’t have enough heat and air inside, outside might be a good idea.

      Reply
  7. Tammy says

    February 23, 2022 at 9:29 pm

    I’m curious about the eco Rowe sofas. They are hardwood frames with Crypton fabric and down. Are they a safe option?

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      February 24, 2022 at 1:25 pm

      They are conventional, but Crypton would be no PFAS.

      Reply
      • Judy Loring says

        February 26, 2022 at 10:10 am

        Hello. I am researching a non-toxic sectional sofa and thanks to this article, I have learned about several options. I am looking at the “Big Sur” sectional couch at Pottery Barn which is “certified non-toxic”. With regard to the fabric choices, the sales reps at PB are telling me that all of the fabrics offered for this sofa (over 60 fabrics) are certified non-toxic. I have had 3 reps tell me this but I cannot believe this is true. Are only the Crypton fabrics safe in your opinion? Very frustrating that I cannot get a straight answer from PB. Thanks in advance.

        Reply
        • Corinne says

          February 26, 2022 at 11:04 am

          Non-toxic is a term vague enough that companies can mean almost anything by that. I would want to know that it is free of PFAS.

          Reply
      • Tammy Wigington says

        February 27, 2022 at 9:18 pm

        What does conventional mean? Do you feel they are a safe option? Thank you!

        Reply
  8. Neobest mattress says

    February 19, 2022 at 10:42 pm

    Thank u for this beautiful information. We look forward for more information.

    Reply
  9. Maggie says

    February 17, 2022 at 4:17 am

    Do you know anything about joybird? This is what I received from them so I was wondering what you thought?

    Considering how much time we spend in our homes and on our furniture, your concerns are entirely understandable! I’d love to share a bit more information with you about our manufacturing process and the safety of our products.

    There are a couple of concerns that most folks have when considering the safety of the products in their home. The first concern is chemical flame retardants, which can be dangerous in some instances. The good news is, we do not use any chemical flame retardants in our foam or fabric at all. We conform with California’s TB 117-2013, which essentially states that foam does not need to have flame-retardant chemicals injected in them anymore.

    The second concern many people have is with VOCs or off-gassing. Most substances on the planet, except for some metals, will off-gas. The problem is with what they are off-gassing. While our furniture will off-gas, what they are off-gassing is non-toxic, low VOC, and formaldehyde-free. We strive to produce the healthiest furniture we possibly can at a price point affordable to most consumers looking for a new sofa, sectional, or chair.

    Also, our Safeguard Fabrics have a coating of acrylic spray; this makes them stain and fade-resistant. The remarkable thing is that they are GreenGuard Certified, meaning that an independent 3rd party company has tested them to be free of any harmful chemicals or carcinogens and that they are low VOC.
    You can read more about their testing guidelines here, http://industries.ul.com/environment/certificationvalidation-marks/greenguard-certification-program.

    And we do our very best to build “healthy” furniture – including using water-based glues and sustainable wood sources. You can read more about our commitment to sustainability here, https://joybird.com/giving-back/.

    I hope that this helps you with your search! Please don’t hesitate to let us know if you have any questions or concerns. We are here and happy to help!

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      February 17, 2022 at 11:21 am

      No one is using FR anymore. It sounds like regular polyurethane foam with no PFAs on the fabric.

      Reply
      • Maggie says

        February 17, 2022 at 11:29 am

        Would you consider this an ok option for someone trying to find a healthy couch on a budget?

        Reply
        • Corinne says

          February 19, 2022 at 2:52 pm

          Affter emailing them they have given a series of super unclear emails and they will not say the products are free of PFAS. I won’t be adding them to the list.

          Reply
  10. Taylor Nelson says

    February 11, 2022 at 7:49 pm

    Hi! I’ve been trying to detoxify my home and am wondering if my La-Z-Boy set purchased in 2020 is likely to be very toxic? I also have Mannington Heritage Buckskin floors (I think they’re a LVP??).. It does have a Floorscore certification.
    We just built our house in 2020 and everything is new. I wish so bad I was more aware on common household toxins before we built and did everything right from the beginning.

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      February 12, 2022 at 11:50 am

      With the sofa you can ask them about PFAS treatment. For the vinyl here is the post on vinylhttps://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2021/07/choosing-a-non-toxic-vinyl-plank-floor.html

      Reply
      • Taylor Nelson says

        March 1, 2022 at 12:17 pm

        Thank you. I have decided to buy a healthier sofa and was going to go with The Futon Shop because they have some that are supposedly in stock (emailing with the owner)… but I have read A LOT of bad reviews about them. Mainly just about their customer service, return policy and all of that. But people are questioning if they’re even being truthful about their products being chemical free, natural, organic… Do you happen to have any knowledge to know for sure that they are? Thank you so much.

        Reply
        • Corinne says

          March 2, 2022 at 1:38 pm

          I have heard those review in terms of not being happy with their service and returns are generally not feasible.
          Some people have had reactions which some have explained as possible reaction to the borax they use on the cotton or that they feel that they sensed mold.

          Reply
  11. Amanda says

    February 7, 2022 at 1:56 pm

    This is such a great post. Thank you. I was thinking of purchasing an R&B couch and have tried to get information on their use of PFAS before reading this post. No one there can answer my question, May I ask how you got it in writing?

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      February 7, 2022 at 8:09 pm

      Through a few emails with them. It’s also listed in an industry document but most tellingly is that their website lists them as not stain resistant.

      Reply
      • Amanda says

        February 9, 2022 at 7:41 am

        Yes, I do see that they’re listed as not stain resistant, however, I have a velvet fabric sample in front of me that I got a few weeks ago and it says, “Stain Repellent Finish: Yes”

        Reply
        • Corinne says

          February 9, 2022 at 8:06 pm

          Oh interesting. That does make me wonder.

          Reply
  12. Mel says

    January 14, 2022 at 9:23 pm

    Hi Corrine,

    thank you for your work.

    I have a question, if you have a regular couch, how can you go about protecting yourself from chemicals (cannot afford a non-toxic couch). For instance, for mattresses, organic toppers are recommended along with. regular cleaning and using a air purifier.

    Thank you in advance and have a good one.

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      January 14, 2022 at 11:25 pm

      I would check the year and if you can specifically find out if it has flame retardants that would be the thing you want to know.

      There is a post on minimizing exposure to flame retardants.

      Reply
  13. Pauline Rosenberg says

    December 20, 2021 at 10:35 am

    Do you know whether the organic fabrics at Cisco are GOTS certified? I did not find a GOTS certification for their organic furniture line.

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      December 20, 2021 at 2:17 pm

      It looks like it’s organic without that certification.

      Reply
  14. An otherwise nice person says

    December 14, 2021 at 5:46 pm

    Based on the advice of this article we ordered a sofa from Medley. I have MCAD and a parrot so we do our level best.

    We placed our order in the third week of July and as of today, 12/14, we still do not have a sofa. They have rescheduled our delivery 3 times now and we have no idea when we’ll get it. I checked around and discovered our experience isn’t unique over more than a year. This is a huge expense for us. I’m nervous to say the least.

    Please look into this yourself and update your information. If they never deliver I’m completely out of luck at this point.

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      December 15, 2021 at 10:15 am

      Oh no! that is a super long delay!! The pandemic has caused some crazy shortages of raw materials but that really sucks.

      Reply
      • An otherwise nice person says

        December 18, 2021 at 2:38 pm

        I have to tell you I felt a bit freaked out when the website told me *after purchase* that my sofa wouldn’t be delivered until mid Nov. when it was the beginning of July and that I had to pay in full up front. I guess paying a deposit for custom work and the rest when it’s ready isn’t a thing anymore? I’m so old now…

        I totally get the issues with supply chains (and the cost of wood for a while there! oof~) They offer updates on the site but they just don’t do them. Their customer service rep told me they aren’t set up for it. More frustrating was that the number they give you to call for updates on delivery is to sales who can’t help you at all.

        I finally got my sofa. The guys that finally brought it (yeah, everything had to go wrong with the delivery too) had to be asked to put masks on and I got a snarky ‘whatever – we’re vaccinated’. I’ve got a wheelbarrow full of chronic illness plus I have to take steroids. This is my home, put your mask on. SO much for white glove.

        There’s at least a dozen things they could have done to provide better service. Additionally I also noticed that they stopped responding to negative reviews on Trustpilot more than a year ago. One review there has me concerned, they reported fabric tearing at the seams. I’m keeping my fingers crossed.

        Now I just need to find some non-toxic throw pillows that won’t break my bank account 😉

        Reply
        • Cheryl says

          April 28, 2022 at 5:32 pm

          Hi,

          I hope that your sofa ended up being a good experience in the long-run. Personally, and I’m stating this for others reading this article, I’d never do business with Medley again. I have chemical sensitivity and am very ill. I felt I had no choice other than to order through them. It’s been a few years now. The first order, so pre-pandemic, was totally messed up and they delivered something I can’t even describe. They messed up in making it, and it looked so weird. The back was so tall, and sloped in a way that no one could sit on it. The second time I switched to a love seat. The pillows on the back are soft and unsupportive. The cushions, and I opted for Certipur-us, are hard on my body but also sort of unsupportive, a weird combo. I should have sent it back. Not sure if they allow the option any longer for customers, but if so, don’t keep it if it doesn’t work. I regret that choice everyday. Just sitting in my house. I have to try to sell it, and I’m back to the drawing board.

          One option I don’t see here is Luonto furniture. I know it’s not perfect, but it does appear to be a better option for those with issues or who just want a safer couch with regard to chemicals.

          With Medley, it’s a bad company. I don’t see where people like their stuff, not long-term.

          Reply
          • Corinne says

            April 30, 2022 at 2:01 pm

            There’s nothing unique about Luonto.

  15. Matt says

    November 26, 2021 at 10:29 am

    Thanks Corinne! Super helpful article. I know you haven’t reviewed these brands from reading the above but have you considered reviewing either of Burrow or Sabai? I often see these brands listed on sustainable/non-toxic listing and was a little surprised to see neither listed here (and perhaps for a good reason). Thanks!

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      November 26, 2021 at 3:53 pm

      I just added them both to the post!

      Reply
      • Adam says

        December 15, 2021 at 6:06 am

        Hi,
        What about non toxic metal furniture? I can’t find info on that. Thank you

        Reply
        • Corinne says

          December 15, 2021 at 10:12 am

          https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2021/09/non-toxic-furniture-for-the-bedroom-living-room-dining-room.html

          Reply
      • Tammy Wigington says

        April 4, 2022 at 1:02 pm

        Corinne, what are your thoughts on Maiden Home sofas?

        Reply
  16. T says

    November 12, 2021 at 12:49 pm

    I contacted Ashley Furniture regarding a recliner I saw on their website. They said they use a combination of hardwood and OSB in their recliners. They didn’t have any information about formaldehyde. They don’t use stain resistant chemicals because they use polyester fabrics on most of their recliners, and the polyester is naturally easy to clean, they said. So that seems like a positive. They don’t use fire retardant chemicals, they said. They weren’t aware of any other chemicals being used. So the main question seems to be formaldehyde (though do correct me if there are any other higher-priority chemicals of concern I should ask about). Does all OSB contain formaldehyde, and more importantly, does it always offgas? I read that the adhesives (where the formaldehyde is, right?) are heat cured. That made me wonder if they are cured in such a way that they are made inert. Or will they always offgas?

    Reply
  17. Liz says

    November 11, 2021 at 6:32 am

    Thank you for your article. I was going to buy a Room and Board Chair, but there is a California Prop 65 Warning on it for wood dust exposure. Do you know anything about this?

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      November 11, 2021 at 4:42 pm

      if you are not going to sand the wood on the chair it won’t be a risk (this is why i hate prop 65)

      Reply
  18. Valerie Warren says

    November 5, 2021 at 6:48 pm

    Thanks for the article. I have now returned 2 couches because I had health issues (Costco Gilman creek and city furniture sectional). They were both microfiber and I am hoping that is the reason for my issues, but now I am too paranoid to buy another couch. Currently looking at lazboy where you can choose your fabric. Is 100% polyester ok to use? They also have some blends containing cotton, linen, acrylic… any of these I should stay away from? The sales people were all but helpful in my questions about the foam and fabric. Thank you

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      November 5, 2021 at 10:30 pm

      You shoud get fabric swatches to see what it is you are reacting to. Consider a floor model as well.

      Reply
      • Valerie says

        November 6, 2021 at 8:55 am

        Thanks for the reply. I’m planning on getting the swatches but scared they won’t be big enough to have reaction. Do you happen to know if lazboy is on the same level as ikea when comparing the toxicity? I’m especially interested in the type of foam and whether it contains flame retardants.

        Reply
        • Corinne says

          November 8, 2021 at 2:23 pm

          I have not reviewed laziboy.

          Reply
        • Karen says

          April 29, 2022 at 3:46 am

          I have just made arrangements to send all my new La Z boy furniture back. I have had skin lesions, sore throat , chills and fevers, inflamed joints. I may have to rely on strong pain killers for the rest of my life because of this furniture. I had the furniture only one month.

          Reply
  19. Barbara says

    October 25, 2021 at 7:07 am

    Thank you for this informative article. I am trying to find a Love seat sofa bed free from all the harmful chemicals but I have not been successful because the descriptions are so vague.

    Reply
  20. Jaipur Maintenance says

    October 25, 2021 at 1:50 am

    Thanks for sharing this amazing article. It really helpful for me.

    Reply
  21. Valerie says

    October 17, 2021 at 9:58 am

    I Recently bought an ikea couch. The Uppland one. I have had to get rid of my things twice now because of mold so I didn’t want to spend a lot on a couch at the moment. Unfortunately I am reacting to the smell of the couch. I had a different new one last year that I don’t recall reacting to. Did they change their standards? I put it outside for a few days which helped but it’s still bothering me. I washed the covers and those are okay now. It’s the white foam that surrounds the couch and the cushions I think. Is this the poly I’m reacting to? Or maybe the wood underneath the poly. I’m not sure what to do. If it’s causing me harm I guess I’d rather just return it unless you have any solutions on how to get the smell out. I have carbon fabric blankets laying over certain areas but I’m not sure if this will actually get rid of it and is only blocking the smell. Do you have any suggestions?

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      October 17, 2021 at 4:44 pm

      It’s more likely that your sensitivities have changed but it is possible that the foam can be slightly different. Check out the post on how to offgas furniture.

      Reply
  22. cc says

    October 5, 2021 at 5:44 pm

    Thank you for this amazing article! I so appreciate your in depth and balanced advice. The Futon Shop is significantly cheaper than the other “top tier” options when avoiding polyurethane foam, so we wanted to order from them. But there are some quite bad reviews online and their return policy is limited, and you have to pay for returns. We would be shipping across the country and it’s already a stretch financially, so a little worried. Do you have any inside knowledge on the quality of the products and the store aside from their safety profiles? Or have any other commenters here ever ordered from them?

    Reply
    • Taylor Nelson says

      February 28, 2022 at 10:47 am

      Did you ever place your order through the Futon Shop?? If so, how did it go? I am currently now in the predicament!

      Reply
  23. Linda Cullen says

    September 12, 2021 at 10:02 am

    Hello Corinne,

    Thanks for giving your time and knowledge to help others. Some years ago I bought a cheap sofa with no thought to toxic components. When I recline my head against it, my scalp itches terribly. I am older and wiser now and TRY to only purchase non-toxic, made-in-USA products. I am ready to replace the sofa and have scoured your information. As a result, I am considering Medley and Cisco. I also see sofas from Serena and Lilly that seem non-toxic. Additionally, Maiden Home has similar options, however I am leery of the recycled metal for the springs that Maiden Home uses. Can you share any knowledge on Serena and Lilly and Maiden Home sofas?

    Thanks in advance,

    Linda

    Reply
  24. Jill says

    September 3, 2021 at 5:57 am

    I don’t see Arhaus listed in this post. I am looking at their Kipton sofa which has a choice of polyesters fibers or memory gel fibers for the cushion backs. From what I’m reading it looks like memory gel fibers might be polyester as well? Any information about either of these fillings?

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      September 3, 2021 at 2:14 pm

      I’m assuming they mean memory foam but it’s not clear. They also list polyurethane in a convoluted way the disguises what it is.

      Reply
  25. Resh says

    September 1, 2021 at 8:54 pm

    Amazing work. Thanks for doing this. Do you know is clear lacquer on rattan lowers it’s non-toxic score? Many stores like Serena and lily have natural rattan furniture but they all seem to have varnishes or lacquers thanks.

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      September 2, 2021 at 12:05 pm

      The clear finishes on rattan that I have seen don’t seem to have offgassing. You will want to check it out in person though to see how you feel.

      Reply
  26. A. D. says

    August 30, 2021 at 5:47 am

    I’m surprised you listed Room and Board as selling non toxic furniture. Most of them carry a prop 65 warning on their website, I think for formaldehyde. Did you know about this? I would like to know your thoughts…. Maybe it’s in a minuscule amount?

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      August 30, 2021 at 11:40 am

      I only mention them in the “next best” companies for couches because they do not have PFCs and also have solid wood inside. The prop 65 warning if for wood dust. I don’t think the frame of legs will spontaneously errupt into wood dust. I really don’t like the prop warnings and hope they attempt to make this useful in the future.

      Reply
      • A.D. says

        August 31, 2021 at 8:02 am

        So the prop 65 warnings on their bed frames and sofas are only for wood dust and not formaldehyde? If so, that’s great… I bought one of their bed frames and was worried about toxic chemicals being released into my bedroom.

        Reply
        • Corinne says

          August 31, 2021 at 12:17 pm

          On the sofa I first checked it only warned for wood dust. Just checked another one that did say formaldehyde. The formaldehyde would be very very minor since they are using solid wood. It might be in the wood glue or fabric treatment. It won’t stick around for long, it will completely offgas with a little bit of time.

          Reply
          • A.D. says

            August 31, 2021 at 3:29 pm

            May I ask how did you find out what prop 65 chemicals are in which sofa? I bought the Hartley bedframe in Destin fabric and I wanted to know which prop 65 chemicals are in it, but no one from the store knew and their website doesn’t tell me. Thanks!

          • Corinne says

            August 31, 2021 at 4:54 pm

            Go into the materials section on each listing, it’s at the bottom.

        • Valerie says

          September 2, 2021 at 6:49 pm

          Can you please help me with mold toxicity. This is the second time I’ve had to throw out my belongings. I’m afraid to buy anything at this point. Is leather mold resistant? Or any other ideas for a couch or sitting furniture? Another blog mentioned a blow up couch for awhile and I just can’t live like that. I don’t want to waste a bunch of money again tho. Maybe an ikea futon solid wood sealed frame would work? Then if anything happened I’d only need to replace the mattress part? I like wool a lot. I found futon mattresses that are 100% wool and organic cotton cover. I wonder if that’s safe in case mold ever happens again? If wool is mold resistant? I’m very very chronically sensitive as well so that’s the other issue for me. Do you know of any mold mattress protector/encasements? Sorry for so many questions. Your blog is by far the best thing I’ve found. Thank you for your work and time!

          Reply
          • Corinne says

            September 3, 2021 at 2:16 pm

            It depends on what is going on in this broader situation. This post started as furniture that was resistant to cross contamination and was cleanable so many of those options are still in the post. There is another post on mattress protectors.

  27. Sara says

    August 15, 2021 at 7:02 pm

    Thanks for the great post! We have been looking for outdoor furniture, and it has been a struggle. While stores such as Room & Board have eliminated PFAS from their indoor fabrics, it does not seem clear that they have done the same with outdoor fabrics (eg. Sunbrella.) We also worry that faux wicker might be treated with PFAS for waterproofing, and HDPE seems prone to containing PFAS from contamination before the recycling process. We have tried out non-upholstered teak, but it is not all that comfortable for long periods of time. Any tips in terms of brands and material? Thanks again for your great work!

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      August 16, 2021 at 3:50 pm

      Based on this article I would not expect plastic for outdoor furniture to be flourinated http://blogs.edf.org/health/2021/07/07/beyond-paper-pfas/

      Some stores have clearly stated they have eliminated PFAS from all fabrics and products like IKEA. Crypton would also be a good option. Subrella has not stated that they are free of PFAS as far as I know.

      Reply
  28. Dawn Peterson says

    August 2, 2021 at 4:07 pm

    I am looking for non toxic interiors such as sofas, beds, mattresses, carpets that discourage dust mites as I have an allergy, furniture. I am not finding it easy in Great Britain. I have chronic fatigue etc. So just need some help with these things.
    Kind Regards
    Dawn

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      August 2, 2021 at 8:22 pm

      I really like polyurethane PU faux leather for this purpose. Mattress encasements also help a lot, there’s a separate post on that.

      Reply
  29. Danielle says

    June 14, 2021 at 9:26 pm

    Will metal bed frames amplify EMFs? Any recommendations for people who are sensitive to everything, including EMFs? Starting to think I should just sleep on the ground!

    Reply
    • Anastasia says

      July 21, 2021 at 5:13 am

      EMF readers open box especially used /open box on Amazon can be very cheap… Test it out. Personally I’ve found that anything that is a barrier including metal objects is a barrier. Think about it, they wrap electrical boxes in metal to contain /make safer. But hey I’m no EMF expert- get meter 🙂

      Reply
  30. Yannick says

    June 6, 2021 at 7:34 pm

    Hello,

    I was wondering what you think of Noa sofas (https://www.noahome.com/ca-en/sofas/), and also of Kavuus sofas (https://www.kavuus.com/allsofas) for people suffering from MCS.

    Noa says that their frames are made from kiln-dried solid pine. Kavuus says that their frames are made from baltic birch hardwood.

    Do you have any knowledge of these two sofa companies? Have they been safe for MCS patients?

    I look forward to your input.

    Reply
  31. Aaron says

    June 5, 2021 at 11:55 pm

    What do you think about resin tables, like this one?

    https://www.homedepot.com/p/Lifetime-6-ft-Almond-Resin-Commercial-Folding-Table-2900/314973125

    And I assume something like this one below is not recommended, due to the plywood, right? What would you suggest as an alternative? I want a folding, heavy duty table for under $200. Thanks for your help.

    https://www.homedepot.com/p/72-in-Natural-Wood-Tabletop-Metal-Frame-Folding-Table-CGA-XF-118501-NA-HD/308688148

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      June 6, 2021 at 12:29 pm

      The first one will be fine for almost everyone. It’s HDPE.

      Reply
  32. Tammy says

    May 28, 2021 at 11:47 pm

    Hi Corinne! I have another question! Being extremely chemical sensitive, it makes it extra tricky to purchase safe furniture. Does Greengaurd Gold furniture that is finished with a water based paint have a smell/ off-gas? Thank you!

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      May 30, 2021 at 11:30 am

      Greenguard gold furniture can still offgas for sure, it can still contain MDF, HDF or particle board, regular glues and regular stains.

      Reply
  33. Tammy says

    May 28, 2021 at 11:36 pm

    Thank you for this amazing blog and information! I’m about to purchase a couch and I’m looking at Pottery Barn’s Certified Non-toxic furniture line. I have many chemical sensitivities and I know you recommended the Crypton line for the fabrics for Pottery Barn’s sofas. I have spent hours on the phone with customer service trying to get to the bottom of which fabrics are safe. Apparently, the materials in the sofa itself are Greenguard gold, but the fabrics are typically treated with chemicals that wouldn’t be non-toxic. They have a performance, no-stain line, and that is where the Crypton line is found. Wouldn’t this contain unwanted chemicals because the fabric would be treated with stain proof chemicals? Any insight you can share would be awesome, thank you in advance Corinne!

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      May 30, 2021 at 11:28 am

      Yes the Crypton is treated and is higher odor than the non performance fabrics but it one that we know does not have PFAs which is a priority chemical to avoid.

      Reply
      • Katherine says

        August 25, 2021 at 11:52 am

        HI Corine, I’m also about to buy an upholstered bed from pottery barn and you can buy a nonperformance fabric which is cheaper or a performance color. Do you recommend buying the performance fabric? Does it have less chemicals
        Thank you

        Reply
        • Corinne says

          August 25, 2021 at 12:20 pm

          I mention that in the post. Performance has more chemicals.

          Reply
  34. Debbie Jaworowski says

    May 16, 2021 at 12:11 pm

    We adopted a cat and even though we have multiple cat scratch posts, he still scratches the couch and living room chairs. I am struggling to find a clear covering for the couch and chairs as they are made from PVC. I thought my recent purchase was made from PET which I think is better, but it arrived and on the packaging it says it is PVC. Can you recommend a product or a website that offers a non toxic clear couch covering?

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      May 21, 2021 at 11:10 am

      I haven’t searched for that before. PVC is more durable so it might not come in PE. PE covers are thin and used for moving days. You could look for acrylic.

      Reply
    • Anastasia says

      July 21, 2021 at 5:37 am

      Try a Polyethylene mattress wrap. We used one before we could switch to an organic mattress … I think they make couch wrapps too. Some anti SIDS guidelines suggest thinkness should be least 125 microns, or 5 mil… But your not an infant so thickness probably doesn’t matter.

      Reply
      • Anastasia says

        July 21, 2021 at 5:42 am

        Oh and they also sell PE in garden centers ( to cover plants/make greenhouses). Not sure if that’s think enough but probably cheaper than the nitch market PE matress covers. Maybe worth a try?

        Reply
  35. Liz says

    May 8, 2021 at 7:18 am

    Does Lazboy treat sofas with perfluorinated chemicals?

    Reply
  36. Jill Hammersley says

    March 26, 2021 at 6:40 pm

    For many of us, this furniture is simply too expensive. Ikea would be a great alternative. They claim their particle board is “low formaldehyde.” Is that OK if we simply can’t afford to furnish our houses with more expensive furniture?

    Reply
  37. Christine says

    March 15, 2021 at 9:28 am

    Very helpful post, thank you! Do you have information on Crate & Barrel’s couches? Specifically the Axis II or the Lounge? It looks like they’re made with mostly non-toxic items but I don’t know what to make of these performance fabrics and if they might be toxic.

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      March 16, 2021 at 2:54 pm

      You would have to ask them about perfluorinated chemicals which are the main stain resistant coatings to avoid. I know Crypton fabric treatment looks like an acrylic and it’s not a PFOA (it’s not totally disclosed). They don’t always say what the treatment is and some of these are odorless so I can’t use my nose to tell which ones are treated.

      Reply
  38. orkkid says

    March 8, 2021 at 3:34 pm

    Thanks for this article, will be leaving a “coffee” afterwards! I am a bit torn about polyurethane foam, since it’s in so many of my favorite sofas and lounge chairs, but I saw in a NYT comment section that polyurethane foam becomes increasingly worse over time, because the foam breaks down into small particles and becomes the dust on the floor or in the air. What do you think?

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      March 8, 2021 at 8:38 pm

      If it has flame retardants then it definitely is a risk over time. If the foam is so old that it’s crumbling or there is a rip and it’s coming out in dust that is a problem too but that takes a long time.

      Reply
  39. Suzanne says

    December 9, 2020 at 4:58 am

    Hi Corinne! I’m looking for a more traditional looking sectional sofa. One that I can build into a u shape. And of course I want it as non-toxic as possible and even potentially with the tufted look. I’m more of a fan with the arms that look like rolls. Any suggestions for such a large customized piece of furniture that I could piece together? Thanks in advance! Suzanne

    Reply
  40. Amy says

    December 3, 2020 at 7:16 am

    What do you know about the “green” performance fabrics, e.g., Inside Out, Breathe by Milliken, Sustain Performance Fabrics, Revolution? Are these really sustainable choices and good for the chemically sensitive? Most claim to be greenguard gold certified, PFC and flame retardent free.

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      December 3, 2020 at 12:33 pm

      I’m not sure what the natural liquid repellency is. I would have to dig through the patents most likely to find that.

      Reply
      • Amy says

        December 3, 2020 at 7:13 pm

        Thanks. I think they are mostly polypropylenes and polyesters, so the fibers naturally can’t absorb liquids and dirt as well. I know there are environmental considerations around using those materials, but from a health and indoor air quality standpoint, would you have any concerns?

        Reply
        • Corinne says

          December 4, 2020 at 1:15 pm

          Generally no concerns with those.

          Reply
  41. Courtney says

    November 13, 2020 at 12:43 am

    Unfortunately a lot of metal furniture contains lead. Search for yourself at http://www.tamerarubin.com

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      November 13, 2020 at 1:02 pm

      Well, yes and no. Most metal furniture does not because it’s usually steel. Aluminum and chrome also can’t have lead. It’s really only brass that has lead, if we are talking about the metal components. I recommend the blog Natural Baby Momma for lead testing results.

      Reply
    • Leanna Reece says

      March 24, 2021 at 10:43 am

      Actually steel can contain lead. As more metal is fabricated from recycled materials, we will continue to see lead build up in steel products, increasing overall exposure to lead within the home. Recycling isn’t exactly what we have been led to believe, unfortunately.

      It is not uncommon for stainless steel products to test positive for lead via XRF testing.

      There have been lead-free aluminum alloys intentionally developed, but the above statement holds for aluminum as well, if one digs in to the industrial trade publications. 🙂

      Lead alloy anodes are also utilized when items are plated in hard chrome.

      Here’s one of many potential resources: https://www.productionmachining.com/blog/post/reduction-of-lead-in-aluminium-alloys

      Reply
  42. clippingpathlab says

    November 4, 2020 at 8:22 am

    Then on to simple inexpensive furniture made of safe materials like glass, hard plastic, metal, and seagrass.

    Reply
  43. Yvonne Osondu says

    July 20, 2020 at 4:59 am

    Is it possible to sanitize/disinfect environment friendly furnishings.

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      July 21, 2020 at 8:44 pm

      You may want to check the compatibility. It depends what you are using for sanitizing. I use hydrogen peroxide. I have also found that natural finishes like natural oil finishes on wood are in general more vulnerable to cleaning products so you have to check with the care instructions of what it is finished with. If it’s something with upholstery, it’s also possible that fabrics without stain resistant coating have less ability to hold up if you take something harsh to it.

      Reply
  44. Janice says

    May 20, 2020 at 3:46 pm

    What Medley sofa would you say is the best option? Looking for the safest sofa for my family. Also looking for a dining table and I’m lost?

    Reply
    • Elizabeth says

      April 30, 2021 at 8:55 am

      I need to find a dining table too! Did you ever come across one? Which sofa did you end up getting?

      Reply
  45. Daina Pearson says

    April 28, 2020 at 2:04 pm

    Do you find that the polyeurathane foam from soy in the Cisco Brothers’ line of couches is fine? I had thought polyeurathane was to be avoided.
    Thanks for posting this information!

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      April 29, 2020 at 3:56 pm

      I haven’t seen a sample of that company’s foam. I was happy with the Medley one (which is likely very similar). It depends on your level of sensitivity or how far you are going with toxin avoidance. It’s not 0 VOC.

      Reply
  46. Kirstin Pearson says

    April 27, 2020 at 9:25 pm

    This blog is a gem & extremely helpful! I’m on the hunt for a couch/sectional & prices for ‘safe’ furniture companies are high, which I’d anticipated. My main issues are chemicals & plastics/polys; fortunately, natural organic latex is safe; down concerns me a bit, as haven’t tested it out in ages. It’s not much lower than Medley, but why does Joybird not make the list (that & Pottery Barn are already on my high-end range of budget)? Is there something I should know? I like how they allow for 90-day returns…thanks for any input!

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      April 29, 2020 at 4:05 pm

      They are the same price as Medley but don’t boast as many “green” aspects. It’s very close though if you prefer that one. The only difference I see is they don’t make any claims about using fabrics that are not treated with chemicals. That could be minor for many people.

      Unless a company can beat that price point it probably won’t get added to the list though it’s not at all a bad option.

      Companies are moving towards this compromise though – solid wood inside, low VOC stains and glues, no flame retardant polyurethane. This has become much more common since this list started a few years ago!

      Reply
  47. Terry Herbig says

    February 29, 2020 at 10:03 am

    A lot of places say their furniture is made in the U.S.A. Which usually means it is assembled in the U.S.A. But the parts are probably from China and full of chemicals. I would love to find a non toxic recliner.

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      February 29, 2020 at 3:58 pm

      Yes good point Terry. Materials are sourced from all over the world and even the most conscientious companies don’t have control over all their suppliers.

      Reply
  48. Nina Wallin says

    February 27, 2020 at 12:32 pm

    Where or which brand do you suggest buying bathroom vanities and closets that are chemical free?

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      February 29, 2020 at 4:03 pm

      For closets and vanities it’s usually the kitchen cabinet companies that make these https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2019/10/non-toxic-kitchen-cabinets.html

      Reply
  49. steve says

    January 28, 2020 at 7:21 pm

    Any options for a safe recliner?

    Reply
    • Terry Herbig says

      February 29, 2020 at 10:00 am

      I would like to know this also. Bought some lazy boy recliners and there was so much off gassing of formaldehyde, made my eyes and nose burn real bad and made my nose bleed. Trying to find a non toxic recliner. If you find out, please let me know. [email protected]. Thanks

      Reply
    • Orien Kuang says

      March 6, 2020 at 11:18 pm

      I am looking for a non toxic, sectional recliner. Please share any leads if you know any. [email protected]

      Reply
    • Leanna Reece says

      March 24, 2021 at 10:45 am

      I would suggest contacting local upholstery shops to discuss a custom option. 🙂

      Reply
  50. Pamella says

    January 26, 2020 at 3:49 pm

    Hi, Love the site. Having a very hard time finding an home office chair. I have run out of places to look. Any ideas anyone? Help!

    Reply
    • Meg says

      June 11, 2020 at 2:36 pm

      I am having a hard time with this as well! Did you ever end up finding one, by chance?

      Reply
      • Ryan says

        August 11, 2020 at 7:05 pm

        Me too. Really need a good desk chair, fast!

        Reply
    • Leanna Reece says

      March 24, 2021 at 10:47 am

      You might consider a metal dining room chair. That is what we use; you can add a cushion to it.

      Otherwise, there are office chairs that are mostly metal (Staples has one that I saw), but the cushion is questionable, often comprised of natural rubber latex which is toxic.

      Reply
  51. Sandra says

    January 6, 2020 at 8:29 pm

    My current seven-year-old sofa has seat cushions with a foam core (which I’m sure is not eco) wrapped with a duvet-esque feather wrap. The seat cushions sink – not in a comfortable or visually appealing way – and need to be fluffed all the time. I want to create the sumptuous feeling of a sink-in cushion without having to re-fluff after every time I sit on it. I am hoping to avoid buying a new couch and wonder if you have suggestions on materials I can use to add more cushion to my sofa cushions. Thanks.

    Reply
  52. Christine Friedman says

    January 4, 2020 at 9:28 pm

    Thank you so much for all these suggestions, what do you think of the Pottery Barn Family of brands that have “Greenguard gold certification?”

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      January 5, 2020 at 12:42 pm

      I have a post on the certifications here https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2018/12/what-green-certifications-mean-for.html
      I would look at each individual item separately. Greenguard Gold is too broad for me.

      Reply
      • Lorraine M Ruppe says

        May 5, 2020 at 4:34 pm

        Its a shame many people disabled with Multiple Chemically Sensitivity live on disability income, or worse and we cannot afford any of these expensive items, that we would need , more so than others.

        Reply
  53. Harper Mia says

    October 18, 2019 at 9:17 am

    Thanks for sharing the best information and suggestions, I love your content, and they are very nice and very useful to us. If you are looking for the best Natural Latex Pillow then visit Eliterest. I appreciate the work you have put into this.

    Reply
  54. The Organic Mattress Store Inc. says

    October 10, 2019 at 5:25 am

    I will prefer this blog because it has much more informative stuff. Visit latex mattress for more related information and knowledge.

    Reply
  55. Animals Need Protection says

    June 20, 2019 at 2:30 pm

    Much of the world's leather comes from Asia where there a no animals protection laws. Animal abuse is rampant in the leather industry. How can you skin an animal humanely, even after it is killed (in some cases) for its skin? Please say no to leather. Sometimes the leather that you believe to be cow's leather is from dogs or cats. PETA VIDEO: https://www.peta.org/features/leather-industry/

    Reply
    • Carolyn says

      October 19, 2020 at 3:14 am

      Great article! Very good point here re: Leather. I agree. Say no to leather. Animals do not deserve to be killed so that their skin can be made into leather. There are so many alternatives.

      Reply
  56. Animals Need Protection says

    June 20, 2019 at 2:26 pm

    To the authors of this website, please do not recommend any animals based products. No to wool. No to down.

    Reply
  57. Animals Need Protection says

    June 20, 2019 at 2:23 pm

    I would avoid the down and wool or any animal based products. The animals bred for these types of products are systematically mistreated. The down is typically plucked for living animals that scream in agony as they are brutalized. If your furniture is from China, then the abuse is far worse since there are no animals protections laws there. Here is a PETA video: https://www.peta.org/features/down-investigation/ Here is another video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QnnkHgyqARQ PLEASE protect animals.

    Reply
  58. Corinne says

    April 15, 2019 at 2:28 am

    I do mention that option. It works for some but usually ha neither fragrance or mould contamination. Not everyone is that sensitive though.

    Reply
  59. Rachel Avery Harrison says

    April 14, 2019 at 12:41 pm

    I'm wondering why you don't discuss secondhand/vintage furniture? I have always assumed that in terms of outgassing, anything a few years old is better than most new things.

    Reply
  60. Parker Edward says

    January 18, 2019 at 10:19 am

    Incredible post.

    Reply
  61. Carol Budziszewski says

    January 27, 2018 at 8:16 pm

    Loved this article! I would add Quatrine Furniture to the list, as everything is made in the US without formaldehyde and other toxins. The foam is Certi-Pur US, and the sofas are covered in machine washable slipcovers. Prices are comparable to Cisco Brothers.

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      January 31, 2018 at 5:38 pm

      Those look like standard couches to me. The only green certification listed is certipur which is really just standard polyurethane which is not non toxic. It does off gas. Any polyurethane could reach that standard. I don't see any steps taken like with the brands listed here.

      Reply
  62. N Sims says

    November 27, 2017 at 3:18 pm

    Our bedroom furniture from americanecofurniture had a formaldehyde free finish and had no smell at all when it arrived. They are made in the US and they are the most beautiful pieces in all our house.

    Reply
  63. pisces says

    November 27, 2017 at 4:55 am

    Hi, I am trying to buy a dresser for bedroom. I am very concerned about the chemical smell / formaldehyde with the dresser / drawers. any brand can be recommended? thanks

    Reply
  64. mgyerman says

    June 25, 2017 at 8:45 pm

    Check out EcoSelect Furniture. They have great customer service and products with no toxins. I got a sleeper sofa. Locally sourced USA wood. Recycled coil springs. And they have great ratings on FaceBook!

    Reply
  65. Betsy says

    May 6, 2017 at 7:19 pm

    So sad… Ekla home closed it's doors. I love my couch from them!

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      June 10, 2017 at 6:06 pm

      Shoot! Thanks for the update

      Reply
  66. Alexis says

    April 24, 2017 at 11:59 pm

    What is the name of the cream 5-pillow sofa above the ciscobrothers.com?
    Great article and thank you!

    Reply
  67. StellaLuna says

    August 16, 2016 at 6:11 pm

    You should check out EcoBalanza as a green Sofa maker too!!! My friend just bought beautiful custom stuff from them, and I'm researching but they're not on your list!

    Reply
    • Corinne says

      August 16, 2016 at 8:32 pm

      Thanks for the tip. How much did she pay for hers?

      Reply
  68. Corinne says

    April 11, 2016 at 4:29 am

    Both are chrome so yes would consider both to be non-toxic. Wash metal with soap and water for those extremely sensitive.

    Reply
    • BreatheFree says

      December 28, 2021 at 11:13 pm

      Thanks for your informative post. Wondering if you have any recommendations for RECLINER chairs?

      We bought a Lazy Boy but the plywood or whatever it’s made of had such a toxic odor that we had to junk it soon after. Any alternatives would be greatly appreciated.

      Reply
      • Corinne says

        December 29, 2021 at 3:06 pm

        the only non-toxic recliner I have seen so far is the one in the post.

        Reply
  69. Thaddeus Owen says

    January 4, 2016 at 8:21 pm

    Hi – Nice article. It may also be worth noting that the wood finish makes a big difference in emissions. Ask for zero or low VOC wood finishes (many wood finishes can emit formaldehyde, even though solid wood is used). Polyurethane foam is usually OK, if you ensure it is flame retardant free. Also ask for non PFC coated textiles and textiles without antimony (which is a catalyst used in polyester textile).

    Reply
    • Be Here and Now Counseling says

      January 14, 2018 at 5:23 pm

      Thank you for this information. I anyhow don't want poliester in my life. But, I guess I need to be informed about wood. So much to worry about.

      Reply

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Hi, I’m Corinne, I am a Certified Building Biologist Practitioner with 7 years of experience helping people create healthy homes.

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