Furniture & Indoor Air Quality (Canada)
Healthier, Lower-Emission Alternatives
When selecting furniture, prioritize low-emission, durable materials and avoid products that rely heavily on glues, coatings, or chemical treatments.
Preferred options
- Metal furniture (steel or aluminum)
- Used or vintage furniture, ensuring paint or finishes are intact and not chipping
- Metal blinds instead of plastic polyvinyl chloride (PVC) blinds
- Formaldehyde-free panels or furniture, when solid materials are not feasible
⚠️ Important note on wood
While solid wood furniture contains less glue than composite products, many woods naturally emit terpenes (especially softwoods such as pine, cedar, fir, and spruce). Terpenes can be problematic for people with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) and other respiratory or neurological sensitivities.
If wood is used:
- Prefer low-odour hardwoods where tolerated
- Avoid aromatic woods (cedar, pine, eucalyptus)
- Ensure adequate off-gassing before indoor use
Materials to Use With Caution
- Composite woods (chipboard, particleboard, fibreboard/MDF)
These materials commonly contain formaldehyde-based glues.
If unavoidable:- Choose formaldehyde-free plywood or panels, now available in many Canadian hardware and renovation centres.
- Seal exposed edges and surfaces with low- or no-VOC, water-based finishes.
- New carpets
New carpeting has a high chemical load and can off-gas for extended periods. Carpets also trap dust and contaminants.- If carpeting is required, choose low-emission, washable options
- Vacuum frequently using a HEPA-equipped vacuum
- Allow extended off-gassing before occupancy
Canadian Examples (for reference only)
These examples are provided for informational purposes and do not constitute endorsements. Product formulations may change – always verify current materials and finishes.
- Obasan – is a Canadian company specializing in low-emission mattresses and bedding products designed to reduce exposure to chemical substances.
https://obasan.ca - Aluca – aluminum cabinetry and storage
https://www.aluca.ca/
Materials to Avoid When Possible
- Glues and adhesives
May contain solvents with toxic effects, including benzene, toluene, xylene, petroleum distillates, or chlorinated solvents. - Formaldehyde
A known carcinogen and respiratory irritant; also a respiratory sensitizer. - Plastics
May contain hydrocarbons, phthalates, or bisphenols, which are endocrine disruptors. - Composite wood products
Formaldehyde is commonly present in binding resins. - Synthetic dyes and treatments
May be carcinogenic, mutagenic, photosensitizing, or skin-sensitizing. - Fire-retardant or stain-proof upholstery
Often treated with persistent and toxic chemicals.
Practical Tips for Safer Furniture Use
- Solid materials generally require less glue than engineered products.
- Furniture using panels should be verified formaldehyde-free.
- Panels can be sealed with low- or no-VOC, water-based finishes (e.g., water-based sealers).
- For people with MCS:
- Perform sealing or finishing outdoors
- Allow extended off-gassing before bringing items indoors
- Avoid unnecessary treatments marketed as “stain-resistant,” “odor-resistant,” or “flame-retardant.”
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only. Product materials, formulations, and manufacturing practices may change over time. Inclusion of examples does not constitute endorsement. Individuals – particularly those living with multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) or other health conditions – may respond differently to materials and products. When possible, verify current product specifications, allow for off-gassing, and make choices based on individual tolerance and health needs.