11 Most Toxic Chemicals In Furniture You Need To Avoid

Furniture should serve as a comforting addition to our homes, providing comfort, relaxation, and of course style.

But for the average furniture piece that style and comfort come with serious health risks.

Unfortunately, most people don’t know harmful chemicals are hiding in their favorite couches, chairs, mattresses, and tables.

Journey with us, as we dig deep into chemicals you need to avoid in your furniture and why.

TL;DR

The 11 Most Toxic Chemicals In Furniture Are:

Formaldehyde
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
Flame Retardants
Benzene
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Fiberglass
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
Phthalates
Methylene Chloride
Perfluorinated chemicals, or PFCs
Pesticides

A Breakdown Of The 11 Most Toxic Chemicals You Need To Avoid

1. Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas often used in building materials and household products, like pressed wood furniture, glues, and some fabrics.

Used in pressed wood products like particleboard, MDF (medium-density fiberboard), and plywood. It’s also used as an adhesive in certain glues and finishes.

Irritation: Breathing formaldehyde can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and direct contact can irritate the skin.
Respiratory Issues: Inhalation can lead to breathing difficulties and escalated asthma symptoms.
Cancer Risk: Formaldehyde is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the IARC, with links to nasopharyngeal cancer and leukemia from long-term high-level exposure.
Neurological Concerns: Potential links to symptoms like headaches, mood changes, and memory impairment exist, but more research is needed.
Reproductive Concerns: Some studies suggest a potential link between exposure and reproductive issues like miscarriage.
Sensitivity and Allergies: Repeated exposure can lead to increased sensitivity and allergic reactions in some individuals.

2. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)

Manufacturers use Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), a group of man-made chemicals, in various everyday products like non-stick cookware, water-repellent fabrics, and certain food packaging.

PFAS earn the nickname “forever chemicals” for their resistance to breaking down, allowing them to accumulate persistently in both the environment and the human body.

These are chemicals used to make fabrics and upholstery stain and water-resistant.

Here are some of the most common PFAS chemicals:

Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA)
Perfluorooctanesulfonic Acid (PFOS)
Perfluorohexanesulfonic Acid (PFHxS)
Perfluorononanoic Acid (PFNA)
Perfluorodecanoic Acid (PFDA)
Perfluoroheptanoic Acid (PFHpA)
Perfluorobutanesulfonic Acid (PFBS)

Cancer: Some PFAS have been associated with an increased risk of kidney and testicular cancers.
Liver Issues: PFAS can potentially interfere with liver function.
Reproductive Concerns: They might affect fertility and increase the risk of pregnancy complications.
Developmental Effects: High exposure can affect fetal development and may lead to low birth weight.
Immune System Impact: Some PFAS can reduce the immune system’s effectiveness.

3. Flame Retardants

Manufacturers add flame retardants to textiles, plastics, and electronics as a safety measure to slow down or prevent fire spread, thereby reducing fire-related hazards and injuries.

In response to health concerns, California’s Proposition 65 legislation was passed, requiring manufacturers to provide clear warnings if their products including flame retardants, chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

These chemicals were created to be added to furniture foam and fabrics to reduce flammability.

Here are some of the most common flame retardants:

Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)
Brominated Fire Retardants (BFRs)
Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD)
Tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCPP) and Tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP)
Antimony Trioxide
Melamine
Phosphorus-Based Flame Retardants
Decabromodiphenyl Ether (DecaBDE)

Endocrine Disruption: Some flame retardants can interfere with hormone function.
Developmental Issues: Exposure during pregnancy and childhood might affect brain development and lead to cognitive impairments.
Cancer: Certain flame retardants have been linked to an increased risk of specific cancers.
Reproductive Concerns: Some can potentially affect fertility or cause reproductive harm.
Thyroid Disruption: Impact on thyroid function, affecting metabolism and other bodily processes.

https://youtu.be/oo99vv3NrHI

4. Benzene

Benzene, a colorless and sweet-smelling chemical, is widely used in the manufacturing of plastics, synthetic fibers, dyes, and certain detergents.

However, it’s also a known carcinogen, meaning it can cause cancer, particularly with long-term exposure, and can be harmful if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.

Used in some glues, paints, and finishes.

Cancer: Linked to leukemia, particularly acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
Bone Marrow Harm: This can cause a decrease in red blood cells leading to anemia.
Immune System: Potential to impact the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections.
Reproductive Effects: Exposure might affect fertility in both men and women.

5. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) found in materials like furniture paints, finishes, and adhesives, can off-gas and be released into the air during manufacturing.

The good news is that you can actually speed up the off-gassing process before it enters your home for good which can lower your risk for VOC indoor air pollution.

Used in paints, finishes, adhesives, and upholstery treatments, to enhance product appearance, durability, and performance.

Here are some of the most common VOCs:

Benzene
Toluene
Ethylbenzene
Xylene
Formaldehyde
Methylene Chloride
Acetone
Styrene
1,4-Dioxane
Terpenes

Respiratory Issues: Irritation of the nose, throat, and lungs.
Neurological Effects: Headaches, dizziness, and memory problems.
Eye Irritation: Watery or burning eyes.
Skin Reactions: Redness, itching, and rashes.
Organ Damage: Prolonged exposure to certain VOCs can affect the liver, kidney, and central nervous system.

6. Fiberglass

Fiberglass is a type of material made from extremely fine fibers of glass. It is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to heat, fire, and water.

Fiberglass uses:

Insulation for homes and buildings to keep heat in or out.
Construction of boat hulls, swimming pools, water tanks, and roofing
Making car bodies and parts
Furniture such as desks, chairs, mattresses, and other common items
Manufacturing of pipes and ducts, especially for corrosive chemicals, because it resists corrosion.
Production of wind turbine blades

The tiny fibers can break off and become airborne, and if inhaled, they can irritate the skin, eyes, nose, throat, and lungs.

Long-term exposure to fiberglass fibers may lead to more serious respiratory conditions.

7. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVC is a popular plastic used for many items but can release harmful chemicals like phthalates and dioxins, especially when it’s manufactured or disposed of improperly, posing health and environmental risks.

Used in synthetic leathers and other materials.

Cancer: Potential carcinogen due to the presence of vinyl chloride.
Endocrine Disruption: Contains phthalates, which can disrupt hormone function.
Respiratory Issues: Inhalation of fumes from heated PVC can cause respiratory irritation.
Organ Toxicity: Potential harm to the liver, lungs, and reproductive system.

8. Phthalates

Manufacturers use phthalates to increase the flexibility and durability of plastics, commonly in products such as vinyl flooring, food packaging, and personal care items.

Used to soften PVC and can be found in some furniture, especially those with synthetic materials.

Here are some of the most common Phthalates:

Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP)
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)
Diethyl Phthalate (DEP)
Diisononyl Phthalate (DINP)
Di-n-Octyl Phthalate (DNOP)
Diisodecyl Phthalate (DIDP)
Butyl Benzyl Phthalate (BBP)
Dimethyl Phthalate (DMP)

Endocrine Disruption: Interference with hormone function.
Reproductive Harm: Potential to affect fertility and fetal development.
Developmental Issues: Concerns about effects on the brain and behavior in children.
Organ Toxicity: Risk to the liver, kidneys, and lungs.

9. Methylene Chloride

Methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane, is a volatile, powerful liquid solvent that is colorless and has a sweet aroma.

Used in some paint strippers and adhesives.

Central Nervous System: Can lead to symptoms like dizziness, headaches, and even unconsciousness.
Cancer: Potential carcinogen, with links to lung and liver cancer.
Respiratory: Inhalation can cause lung irritation and shortness of breath.
Cardiovascular: Rapid exposure can affect the heart, potentially causing heart attack in sensitive individuals.

10. Perfluorinated chemicals, or PFCs

Perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs) are artificial chemicals made by attaching fluorine to carbon. They’re good at keeping oil and water away, which is why they’re used in a lot of products as water or stain repellants.

PFCs are used in…

Non-stick cookware (like Teflon)
Stain-resistant fabrics and carpets
Water-repellent clothing
Some food packaging
Fire-fighting foams

Their water and grease-repellent qualities make them popular in many industries.

PFCs can be harmful to our health because they do not break down in the environment or the human body, leading to a condition known as bioaccumulation. This means they can accumulate over time.

Research has linked PFC exposure to several health issues, including:

Increased cholesterol levels.
Changes in liver enzymes.
Reduced immune function.
Reproductive problems, such as decreased fertility.
Developmental effects in infants, like low birth weight.
Increased risk of certain cancers, such as testicular and kidney cancer.

11. Pesticides

Last but not least, pesticides…

Manufacturers use pesticides in furniture, especially in imported wood and upholstered items, to prevent insect and mold damage during shipping and storage.

However, these chemicals can be harmful if they leach out into the air or come into direct contact with the skin, potentially causing health issues with prolonged exposure.

Uses: In industrial settings, they are used to protect wood, prevent bacterial growth, and manage pests in warehouses.

Respiratory Issues: Continuous inhalation can lead to asthma and allergies
Skin Irritation: Direct contact can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions
Neurological Effects: Pesticides can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or in severe cases, neurological disorders.
Hormonal Disruption: Some pesticides are known endocrine disruptors and potentially lead to reproductive health issues and developmental problems in children.
Carcinogenic Potential: Some pesticides may have carcinogenic properties, posing a risk of cancer with long-term exposure.

https://youtu.be/HuXAFc7uDwc

Pro Tip:

Look for certifications like Greenguard Gold Certified that indicate a product has tested to meet strict standards for low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

When shopping, actively looking for these labels can be a sure way to choose healthier furniture for your home.

For more information about non toxic certifications use the EcoLable Index.

Remember, no matter how cute the couch is or even how cheap the mattress is, it’s not worth your health.

11 Most Toxic Chemicals In Furniture You Need To Avoid