Choosing furniture that is safe for both us and the environment, such as non-toxic sofas, is an important step towards creating a healthy home. However, finding a sofa that is both non-toxic and sustainable can be a challenge. Here are some things to consider when looking for a non-toxic and sustainable sofa:
What Makes a Sofa Sustainable and Non-Toxic?
It is not surprising that the same toxic chemicals that are harmful to our health are also detrimental to the environment. When shopping for a non-toxic sofa or sustainable couch, here are some key features to look for:
Non-toxic sofas should be free of flame retardant treatments.
Flame retardants, which are toxic chemicals, are often used to treat polyurethane foam in sofas and other furniture. However, many companies are now shifting away from using flame retardants due to their harmful effects. When shopping for a non-toxic sofa, make sure it is free of flame retardant treatments.
Sustainable sofas should be made with responsibly-sourced and safely treated wood.
When it comes to wood furniture, it is important to ensure that the wood was harvested from responsibly-managed forests. Look for furniture that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), as it is the most widely recognized certification for sustainable forestry management. Additionally, plywood should be avoided as it is typically made with formaldehyde, which is a known carcinogen. If plywood is necessary, look for formaldehyde-free options.
Eco-friendly sofas should have upholstery made with organic, recycled, or natural fabrics.
Many sofas are made with fabrics that are laden with harsh chemicals. Look for sofas that are upholstered with linen, organic cotton, or hemp fabrics. These fabrics are often safer and more sustainable alternatives. Additionally, consider sofas made with recycled synthetic materials if organic options are not widely available.
Non-toxic sofas should be made with natural and/or non-toxic foam.
Most foam used in sofas is petroleum-based and can emit harmful chemicals. Look for sofas that are made with natural fillers such as organic cotton, responsibly-sourced wool, or GOLS-certified organic latex. If natural options are not feasible, look for sofas with the CertiPUR-US® seal, which ensures that the foam is free of toxic chemicals.
What About Secondhand Sofas?
Investing in sustainably made furniture can be expensive. However, shopping for used furniture is a great way to find eco-friendly sofas at a lower cost. While many secondhand sofas may not be made with non-toxic materials, the off-gassing of harmful chemicals is usually less compared to new furniture. Consider checking out local furniture resale shops, consignment stores, estate sales, or online platforms such as Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or OfferUp for sustainable secondhand options.
Here are the top 11 sustainable and non-toxic sofa brands in 2023:
- Savvy Rest: Known for their sustainable organic sofas made with natural Talalay latex foam, organic hemp or organic cotton upholstery, and zero-VOC finishes. Price range: $3,799 – $4,099.
- Maiden Home: Woman-founded brand that crafts made-to-order furniture in North Carolina using responsibly-sourced solid hardwood, renewable soy-based foam, and recycled steel springs. Price range: $2,025 – $3,850.
- Sabai: Offers sustainable sofas made with FSC-certified wood, CertiPUR-US® certified foam, and recycled fiber filling. Price range: $1,095 – $1,395.
- Medley: Focuses on non-toxic sofas made with certified organic or non-toxic natural fabrics, organic latex or CertiPUR-US® certified foam cushions, FSC-certified wood, and water-based, VOC-free glue. Price range: $1,545 – $3,105.
- Natural Home by Futon Shop: Offers organic and non-toxic outdoor sofas made from natural safe materials like hemp and organic cotton. Price range: $1,500 – $5,395.
- Burrow: Specializes in modular eco-friendly sofas made with sustainably-sourced wood and CertiPUR-US® certified cushions. Price range: $795 – $3,995.
- Floyd: Known for their easy-to-disassemble and reassemble furniture, Floyd offers a sofa made with upcycled textiles from the fashion industry. Price range: $2075+ for sofa | $2060+ for sectional.
- LEE Industries on VivaTerra: Offers eco-friendly sofas made with recycled polyester, linen, soy-based fillings, and FSC-certified solid wood. Price range: $4,295 – $6,895.
- EcoBalanza: A boutique brand that creates luxury organic sofas with FSC-certified hardwood, GOLS-certified organic latex, non-toxic fabrics, and organic cotton or responsibly-sourced wool batting. Price range: $3,000 – $4,300; Couture Collection starts at $6,800.
- PURE Upholstery: Specializes in luxury non-toxic sofas made with organic and natural materials like certified organic or non-toxic fabrics and FSC-certified solid wood. Price range: $1,675 – $5,595.
- Loll Designs: Offers sustainable outdoor sofas made from recycled HDPE and USA-made aluminum inserts. Price range: $1,395 – $2,995.
When choosing a sustainable and non-toxic sofa, consider your budget, preferences, and needs. Each brand listed above has different materials, standards, and values, so do your own research to find the best brand for you!