Decor & Design

Home & Decor FAQs

• What chemicals are commonly found in conventional home decor?

  The most common are formaldehyde (in pressed wood furniture, wrinkle-resistant fabrics, and flooring adhesives), flame retardant chemicals like PBDEs and chlorinated tris (in upholstered furniture, mattresses, and rugs), VOCs from paints, finishes, and adhesives, PFAS in stain-resistant and water-resistant fabric treatments, and phthalates in vinyl and synthetic materials. These chemicals off-gas into indoor air over time — and since most people spend 90% of their time indoors, indoor air quality is a significant and underappreciated exposure route.

• What does VOC-free mean and why does it matter?

  VOCs — volatile organic compounds — are chemicals that evaporate at room temperature and accumulate in indoor air. They’re emitted by paints, varnishes, adhesives, pressed wood, synthetic carpets, and many cleaning products. Short-term exposure can cause headaches, dizziness, and eye irritation; long-term exposure to certain VOCs like formaldehyde and benzene is linked to more serious health effects. VOC-free or low-VOC products have been formulated to minimize these emissions. It matters most for paints, finishes, flooring, and new furniture — all of which can off-gas significantly in an enclosed space.

• Are flame retardants still in furniture?

  Yes — many products still contain them, though regulations have shifted. California’s TB 117-2013 standard no longer requires chemical flame retardants in upholstered furniture, but manufacturers can still use them. Without a label explicitly stating “no added flame retardants,” you can’t assume a product is free of them. Look for furniture that clearly states it meets flammability standards through barrier materials or naturally fire-resistant fibers (like wool) rather than chemical treatments. The same applies to mattresses, pillows, and children’s products.

• What's the safest type of rug for a healthy home?

  Natural fiber rugs — wool, cotton, jute, sisal, and hemp — are the safest options. Synthetic rugs (polyester, nylon, polypropylene) are made from petroleum-based plastics, often treated with stain-resistant PFAS coatings, and can off-gas VOCs for months after purchase. Wool is particularly good: it’s naturally flame-resistant, durable, and antimicrobial. Avoid rugs with latex backings (which may contain VOCs) and any rug that has a strong chemical smell out of the package — that’s off-gassing. If you need a rug pad, choose natural rubber or felt rather than synthetic foam.

• Are hemp bed sheets worth it?

  Hemp sheets are one of the best choices for non-toxic bedding. Hemp is naturally grown with minimal pesticides, requires no irrigation in most climates, and produces a fiber that is stronger and more durable than cotton. Hemp fabric is naturally antimicrobial, breathable, and gets softer with every wash. Unlike conventional cotton (one of the most pesticide-intensive crops in the world) or bamboo (which often uses harsh chemical processing), hemp is inherently clean to produce. For anyone sensitive to synthetic materials or looking for truly natural bedding, hemp is an excellent option.