When furnishing or remodeling your home, choosing the healthiest furniture material for each room can be overwhelming. With so many options to choose from, why only look for durability, when it's possible to also have healthy and non toxic furniture picks?
In this article, we’ll explain what is the healthiest material for furniture? And why you should stay away from cheaper, lesser quality options when it comes to your home interiors and your health. Let's jump right on in, with the two rooms where we spend a lot of time working and relaxing...
Have a particular room in mind? Skip ahead!
What is the Healthiest Material for Living Room Furniture?
The living room is the heart of the house, where we welcome guests and spend time bonding, playing and relaxing. As such, many great room pieces are also useful in a home office environment where we can tap into our productivity. It's important for these spaces to promote wellness, comfort and creativity. Finding the right furniture and accessories is an integral step to promoting positive vibes and creating a comfortable, inviting atmosphere in these spaces you'll be using often.
Our healthiest picks for table and desk materials:
PARAWOOD: These mature rubber wood trees are rescued from latex farms from around the world. This is because rubberwood trees, also known as Parawood, will eventually stop producing natural latex after a couple decades. The farmers usually cut down the trees and burn or discard the wood. However, our Parawood tables and desks are made from mature Parawood lumber that was given a second chance.
Rubberwood is excellent for coffee tables, desks and accent tables due to it's durability, minimal grain and ease of of painting and staining. We love Parawood though for its light and neutral wood color. If you dig the look of natural wood, simply apply a coat of nontoxic clear coat or leave the wood natural.
TEAK: Teak is another great option for furniture, for both indoor and outdoor tables. Teak is especially well-suited for wet areas like saunas and showers, and outdoor living areas with couches and seating. Its rich color and resistance to moisture and pests is hard to beat, thanks to it's natural teak oils. Teak wood furniture is perfect for those looking for elegance and longevity no matter the harsh environment.
METAL: Often times tables are a mix of materials, including wood and metal. From small accents like metal studs to beefy steel frames, metal makes for a useful table material. Metals like steel and iron are very strong and sturdy, and are often used for table frames and legs to offer support and aesthetics.
While table accents and hardware made from copper and brass are beautiful, keep in mind that they may sometimes contain an alloy with things like tin or lead. A console table or coffee table made with brass is perfectly fine. Just ensure these metallic elements are not in a spot where you'll rest your arms or touch for long periods of time, like a dining table surface or office desktop. This is because heavy metals are easily absorbed through the skin.
Which healthy couch and sofa upholstery materials should I look for?
Finding Natural Fabrics: For upholstery, natural fabrics like GOTS and OEKO-TEX certified fabrics are amazing. Natural fabrics like bamboo rayon, modal, and hemp are renewable and grown without the need for pesticides. We source these fabrics from responsible manufacturers because they’re soft, breathable, and free from harmful chemicals. PFAS (forever chemicals) top our no no list.
Sourcing Nontoxic Leather: Leather can be a great choice for furniture, office chairs, as well as accent pillows... especially when sourced responsibly. True leather is super durable and most are easy to clean, making it perfect for homes with pets and kids. Look for genuine leather that’s ethically sourced and free from harmful dyes and chemicals. We shy away from vegan leathers, sometimes labeled as PU leather. PU stands for polyurethane, a problematic and commonly used offgassing polymer.
Remember, when it comes to toxicity concerns, the tricky part about leather is the tanning process, the dyes, and the finishing process.
For example, a genuine cow leather pillow can be repurposed from sustainably managed pasture-centric farms, a by-product of the meat industry, eliminating unnecessary harm or waste.
We sit on our pillows, lay on them, prop our arms up with them. They're used more than most realize. This is why only safe metallic and acid dyes are used on our leathers, and ALL of our products (including leathers) are made without chemical fire-retardants or stain treatments.
It's important to us that leather comes from a sustainable production tannery with animal welfare top of mind. Oeko-Tex or Woolmark certified are good indicators for excellence in leather and wool, which means they're nontoxic and safe for people and pets.
Nubuck is a type of top grain leather that is super soft to the touch yet still strong and resilient. While it's a little pricier, leather furniture is an investment. Nubuck is normally matte and shouldn't have any heavy chemical or polyurethane finishes.
Aniline dyes are applied to soft leathers, which penetrate the leather. This way, scratches give the hide character rather than looking like an eye sore. You'll still need to ask about the dyes being used. Some are highly toxic and some are totally eco friendly and mineral-based... Then other leathers use vegetable dyes, which sound wonderful. But some may tend to rub off or transfer to clothing quite easily (yikes!)
Bottom line when it comes to healthy furniture materials, we've found trusting your nose is important, especially when leather shopping. Look for soft quality leathers with no waterproofing or stain treatments that won't easily transfer dye or leave a solvent odor behind... Now let's move on to the bedroom!
How to Choose Healthy Furniture Material for a Bedroom
Choosing the right materials not only gives us a healthier living environment but also creates a space that feels inviting and comfortable for rest and relaxation. Here’s how to choose healthy material for furniture in your bedroom to prioritize your well-being and happiness.
We spend a large part of our lives in our bedrooms (1/3 sleeping in bed). It's no surprise that it's super important to pay attention to what your bed, bedside tables, lamps, rugs, even flooring and artwork are made out of in your bedroom. Here, the furniture and finishes can make or break quality sleep, affecting your mood the next day and your health over time.
FUN FACT: Brain waves when you sleep are deeper if your bed is positioned in a North-South orientation, compared to a East-West.
The Healthiest Mattress Options
Remember we just mentioned that you'll spend about a third of your life sleeping, which is why investing in a good quality mattress is so important! Our top picks for mattresses would be natural latex or those made with wool, organic cotton or bamboo.
Natural latex is derived from rubber trees -- remember our conversation a second ago about the Parawood farms? These trees are a larger part of our life than we realize! They're closely related to Acacia trees, and both produce gums. Acacia makes gum arabic (used in foods) and rubberwood makes natural latex gum. Latex is made into mattress components that are free from synthetic chemicals and still provide a forgiving yet firm surface to sleep on. Natural rubber latex is durable and provides excellent organic mattress support. It both safe and sustainable, so long as no one in the family has latex allergies.
If you want a softer, moisture-wicking, and eco-friendly option, a bamboo mattress or wool mattress might be a better choice for you. On the other hand, if you need robust support, long-lasting durability, and excellent pressure relief, a latex mattress could be the better option for a healthy sleeping environment.
Mattresses made from memory foam or polyurethane foam will often off-gas volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and carcinogens like benzene and formaldehyde for years after they are produced. Look for CertiPUR-US foams, and opt for mattresses made from a blend that includes natural materials like cotton, wool, bamboo and natural latex.
And whatever you decide, avoid mattresses with chemical flame retardants, arsenic and added fragrances -- all of which are surprisingly common harmful additives found in conventional mattresses which can lead to negative health effects.
Types of Healthy Materials for Beds, Desks & Bedroom Storage
Wood: Solid woods bring strength, chi, and timeless beauty to your bedroom furniture. Look for natural hardwood heirloom pieces that add natural warmth, making your space feel cozy and inviting. Solid wood furniture is and should be a timeless and worthy investment, which promotes circularity... We avoid most engineered wood furniture and wood veneers. These are made with formaldehyde glues, such as MDF, particle board and OSB.
Rattan & Wicker: Lightweight and eco-friendly, woven rattan furniture and wicker are often handmade from sustainable vines that grow naturally in various parts of the world. Woven rattan furniture and natural artwork help to create a serene, natural look for a calming, sustainable bedroom vibe. (Tip... Select wall art that represent things you want to come into to your life.)
Metal: Modern and durable, metal bedroom furniture frames fit various decor styles, from industrial chic to minimalist elegance. We usually do not recommend metal for a bedframe or side table though, since it can amplify EMF in a bedroom.
In no room is it more important to let go of your stress than in the bedroom. This is because stress impairs sleep, which can lead to a cascade of mental and physical health issues. Clutter is a hindrance that can cause stress, so getting rid of things you don’t need and investing in stylish bedroom storage is a great way to get organized while improving air flow and chi (the movement of energy).
Bedroom Rugs
A great rug can transform your bedroom into a haven of comfort and style. Here are some fabulous choices to choose the healthiest material for rugs:
Cotton rugs should be woven from naturally grown cotton. Avoid rugs with glued backings. High quality cotton weave should be soft and slightly silky to the touch. Avoid rough cotton or cotton that makes your hands feel instantly dry or swollen. Oftentimes cotton that's laced with harmful chemical residues like pesticides or herbicides will have a skin drying effect... Cotton rugs should be breathable and easy to clean (psst - many of our cotton rugs are machine washable!)
Wool rugs are soft, wonderful insulators and naturally fire resistant (which means they likely don't have chemical fire retardants). Once upon a time, wool rugs used to require professional rug cleaning with chemicals. However, our wool rugs are the first machine washable wool rugs. It's important to source wool rugs that are made with non toxic dyes. A lot of times, dye isn't even necessary, since wools vary. The beauty of natural wool rugs shines through in the natural color variations from sheep in different regions.
OEKO-TEX viscose bamboo rugs are smooth eco-friendly, bamboo rugs which offer a natural aesthetic and silky feel. They're hypoallergenic and affordable, with the look and feel of high end luxury silk rugs. Check out the 100% OEKO-TEX Beautiful Bamboo Rug collection, our fav addition for an elegant bedroom with soft neutral colors. The super soft Bamboo Viscose Reiki Rug collection is another favorite stylish and healthy bedroom rug option.
DID YOU KNOW?
Natural wool varies in color depending on which country the sheep are from...
PRO TIP: Green certifications don't always mean healthy. In reality, most family shops simply don't have the funds for expensive certifications. Which is why we focus on handcrafted furniture made from natural materials, free from forever chemicals, made by skilled artisans from countries all over the world : )
What is the Healthiest Material for Dining Room Furniture?
We know the fondest memories are made when around the table, and we love a well-styled dining room to meet friends and family on the daily and celebrate special occasions. You can still make a stylish statement with your dining room while still incorporating non toxic and sustainable furniture that's made to last.
What to look for when sourcing non toxic dining room tables & chairs:
Natural solid wood dining tables are by far our favorite option when it comes to the healthiest dining table materials. Unlike other popular options like glass and MDF veneer, both which may scratch, solid wooden dining tables can last for generations when properly maintained. Perfect for everyday use, particularly in households with kids. Solid hardwood dining chairs and teak chairs that feature woven seats and/or backs are beautiful additions for a natural, organic, and beautiful dining room design. Plus, natural wood furniture is believed to bring energy balance into a home according to Feng Shui principles.
Metal, stone and glass dining tables are also an affordable option that still avoids formaldehyde-containing particleboard or MDF. These materials typically require minimal, if any, maintenance. Just be mindful to avoid sharp objects that may scratch the surface.
What is Healthy Material for Bathroom Furniture?
Bathrooms are often very humid and can easily develop mold and mildew. To keep your bathroom safe and healthy, make sure it's well-ventilated and that your wet areas are waterproofed correctly. Pick bath furniture and bathroom decor materials that are non-toxic, eco-friendly, and water-resistant. This way, you'll have a bathroom that promotes wellness and your sense of style!
Bathroom Mats
Wooden bath mats are definitely on the rise, and for a good reason! While they might not be as soft and cozy as fabric or natural cotton bath mats, hard bath mats made of woods like teak are super durable, dry quickly, and are naturally hygienic. We also love the feel of warm cozy organic cotton bath mats under bare feet. Just make sure your bathmats are machine washable and regularly tossed in the laundry. And if you're considering a non slip mat for inside the shower or bathtub, opt for a natural rubber anti-slip mat (aka natural latex) or silicone.
YOU MIGHT BE WONDERING: are hard bath mats slippery? The short answer is no. Wood and stone, when wet, have traction that prevents slipping.
Bathroom Stools & Benches
While stools and shower benches come in so many different materials, styles and colors, our top picks are teak and acacia wood.
For functional bath accessories like stools and benches, teak and acacia hardwoods resist moisture, making them perfect furniture for humid bathroom environments. Their natural oils make them resistant to water, and they're a sustainable eco-friendly option compared to plastic furniture. Plus, both acacia wood and teak feature rich, warm wood tones that add elegance and earthy texture to your bathroom oasis.
Indoor Plants
Finally, consider adding some green with faux plants like potted succulents, to your bathroom. Green stands for growth and is a nourishing color that brings a restful balance to the room. Adding some faux greenery to your bathroom can liven up the space where you spend valuable time getting ready to face the day. We don't recommend soil indoors, simply because it can introduce mold spores and microbes into the air.
What goes into your home is just as much an investment in comfort and wellness, as it is in beauty and lifestyle. Because every little bit counts, when it comes to nontoxic furniture. We'd love to know if there's something you'd like to see or learn more about!
We invite you to check out our collections of healthy furniture and all things fun and nontoxic for your very own unique home.
