Amara Naqvi
Healthier Living Space with Low or Non-Toxic, Sustainable Furniture Choices
Choosing the right furniture today is about more than style and functionality. Materials and finishes used in standard pieces often release harmful chemicals into your space, affecting indoor air quality and health. To create a truly healthy indoor environment, consider low- or non-toxic, eco-friendly furniture. These options can greatly improve air quality, minimize chemical exposure, and support long-term well-being. For a safer, healthier, and more sustainable living environment, there are plenty of low- or non-toxic and eco-friendly furnishings available.
Here’s how to make mindful decisions that benefit both your home and the environment. From solid wood frames to natural fabric upholstery, here’s how to make mindful furniture choices that align with a health-conscious lifestyle—and some standout brands that make it easy.
Each brand we share is carefully selected to support your journey toward healthier living spaces. Through our affiliate links, you can easily access products, allowing us to earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Why Non-Toxic Furniture Matters
Many conventional furniture items contain chemicals like VOCs (volatile organic compounds), formaldehyde, flame retardants, and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These compounds can off-gas in homes, work environments, and all indoor spaces, affecting air quality and potentially causing respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even long-term health concerns. By selecting non-toxic, sustainable furniture, you actively choose to limit your family’s exposure to these harmful elements.
Not only does this decision improve the air quality in your home, but it also supports brands committed to safer, eco-friendly practices.
Top Considerations for Choosing Non-Toxic Furniture
When choosing safer furniture, focus on these key materials and certifications to guide your selections:
Opt for Solid Wood: Solid wood, such as oak, walnut, or maple, is a healthier alternative to engineered woods like MDF and particleboard. Engineered woods often contain adhesives that release formaldehyde and VOCs, while solid wood provides durability without the harmful off-gassing.
Prioritize Certifications:
- GREENGUARD: Ensures low VOC emissions, contributing to better indoor air quality.
- CARB Phase 2: Complies with strict formaldehyde emission standards.
- OEKO-TEX: Verifies fabrics are free from harmful substances.
- CertiPUR-US: Confirms foam is made without flame retardants, heavy metals, and other harmful chemicals.
Natural Upholstery and Fillings: Upholstered pieces often contain synthetic materials and chemical treatments for flame resistance and stain repellency. Choosing natural upholstery materials like organic cotton, wool, or natural latex helps minimize chemical exposure. Look for “flame retardant-free” or “PFAS-free” labels to ensure safer options.
Eco-Friendly Finishes: Traditional varnishes and sealants often contain VOCs, which contribute to indoor air pollution. Opt for natural oils, such as linseed or beeswax, to protect wood without the harmful emissions. Natural finishes maintain the wood’s integrity and beauty while keeping your living space healthier.
Avoid Stain-Resistant Treatments: Many “stain-resistant” fabrics are treated with PFAS chemicals, which have been linked to long-term health risks. Opt for untreated or naturally stain-resistant fabrics, like wool or organic cotton, which are easier to clean without the chemical load.
3. Upholstery and Fillings
Opt for upholstery made from natural materials like organic cotton, wool, or natural latex. These materials naturally resist flame without chemical additives. Be cautious of stain-resistant treatments, as many are PFAS-based and contribute to indoor air pollution. Instead, choose untreated or vegetable-based stains for safer fabric options.
Brands Making a Difference in Low or Non-Toxic, Sustainable Furniture
To help you make informed decisions about your furniture purchases, we’ve carefully curated a list of brands that are leading the way in non-toxic and sustainable furniture production. These companies have demonstrated their commitment to health and environmental responsibility through their material choices, manufacturing processes, and transparent business practices.
Each brand we’ve featured has been evaluated based on their use of natural materials, third-party certifications, sustainable sourcing practices, and dedication to reducing harmful chemicals in their products. From solid wood craftsmen to innovative upholstery makers, these manufacturers offer beautiful, durable pieces that prioritize both your health and environmental stewardship.
Let’s explore these conscious companies and their standout products that can help you create healthier, more sustainable living spaces.
Labels & Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold, OEKO-TEX, FSC Certified, Climate Neutral Certified, Non-Toxic, Organic, Sustainable
Best For | Organic, eco-friendly mattresses and bedding
Products | Mattresses, mattress toppers, pillows, bedding, bed frames, furniture
Unique Features | Avocado Green Mattress stands out for its commitment to sustainability and transparency, offering eco-friendly mattresses and bedding crafted from certified organic materials. The Green Mattress, their standout product, is handcrafted in the USA using GOLS-certified organic latex, GOTS-certified organic wool, and GOTS-certified organic cotton. Furthermore, it is GREENGUARD Gold and MADE SAFE certified. For those seeking an animal-free option, the Vegan Mattress is a popular choice, PETA-approved, and excludes wool.
Price | Mid-range to Luxury
Labels & Certifications: FSC Certified, GREENGUARD Gold, Sustainable
Best For | Contemporary, eco-friendly furniture
Products | Sofas, chairs, tables, beds, lighting, storage solutions, accessories
Unique Features | Blu Dot is known for its modern, minimalist design and commitment to sustainability. The brand offers a wide range of contemporary furniture and home accessories that are both stylish and functional. Blu Dot takes pride in its use of FSC-certified wood and GREENGUARD Gold-certified materials, ensuring their products meet high environmental standards. Their Mono Sofa is a standout product, celebrated for its sleek design and comfort, making it a favorite among customers.
Price | Mid-range to Luxury
Labels & Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100, Non-Toxic, Eco-Friendly
Best For | Luxury, sustainable bedding and home textiles
Products | Bedding, throws, decorative pillows, table linens, furniture and more
Unique Features | Fig Linens & Home is dedicated to offering luxurious and eco-friendly textiles crafted from high-quality, sustainable materials. Their products are designed with both style and health in mind, ensuring that all items are free from harmful chemicals. The brand emphasizes natural fibers and organic materials, with standout offerings like their sumptuous organic cotton sheets and handwoven blankets. Fig Linens & Home focuses on creating beautiful living spaces that promote wellness, making it a top choice for those seeking elegance with an eco-conscious twist.
Price | Mid-range to Luxury
Labels & Certifications: GREENGUARD Gold, GreenGuard Indoor Air Quality Certified, Non-Toxic
Best For | Eco-friendly, non-toxic home building materials and furnishings
Products | Paints, stains, flooring, cabinetry, countertops, and home furnishings
Unique Features | Healthier Homes is dedicated to creating indoor spaces that prioritize wellness and sustainability. Specializing in non-toxic building materials and furnishings, their products are designed to improve indoor air quality and minimize exposure to harmful chemicals. With a focus on safe and sustainable choices, Healthier Homes offers everything from VOC-free paints and stains to responsibly sourced wood flooring and non-toxic furniture. The brand is ideal for those seeking to build or remodel with health-conscious materials, providing a wide range of products that support a cleaner, healthier home environment.
Price | Mid-range to Luxury
Labels & Certifications: FSC-Certified Wood, Eco-Friendly Packaging
Best For: Modern, stylish furniture with a focus on sustainability
Products: Sofas, chairs, tables, outdoor furniture, lighting, and decor
Unique Features: Article is known for its sleek, modern furniture designs that blend affordability with quality craftsmanship. Using sustainably sourced materials like FSC-certified wood, Article is committed to eco-friendly practices, including efficient packaging to reduce environmental impact. Standout items include minimalist sofas, stylish dining tables, and durable outdoor pieces. By focusing on a streamlined direct-to-consumer model, Article offers high-quality furniture at accessible prices, making it a popular choice for those looking to elevate their spaces with sustainable, stylish pieces.
Price: Mid-range
6. Savvy Rest
Labels & Certifications: GOTS-Certified Organic, GREENGUARD Gold, OEKO-TEX Standard 100
Best For | Organic, non-toxic mattresses and bedding with a focus on sustainability
Products | Mattresses, bedding, mattress toppers, and pillows
Unique Features | Savvy Rest is renowned for its organic and non-toxic mattresses and bedding, made with GOTS-certified organic materials and meeting GREENGUARD Gold and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 standards. They use natural latex, organic cotton, and wool in their products. The best-seller is the Organic Latex Mattress, celebrated for its customizable firmness options and eco-friendly materials. Savvy Rest’s dedication to transparency and sustainable manufacturing practices makes it a top choice for health-conscious consumers.
Price | Mid-range to Luxury
Labels & Certifications: Fair Trade, Non-Toxic, Eco-Friendly
Best For | Artisanal, ethically sourced home goods
Products | Furniture, textiles, rugs, and home decor
Unique Features | The Citizenry is committed to providing beautifully crafted home goods that celebrate global artisanship while prioritizing sustainability and ethical practices. Each product is made from natural, non-toxic materials and is thoughtfully designed to enhance any living space. The brand’s standout offerings include handcrafted furniture and textiles, which showcase unique cultural designs. By supporting artisans around the world, The Citizenry not only helps preserve traditional craftsmanship but also fosters fair trade practices, making it an excellent choice for those looking to create a stylish and socially responsible home.
Price | Mid-range to Luxury
Labels & Certifications: Fair Trade, Non-Toxic, Eco-Friendly
Best For | Handcrafted, sustainable furniture and home decor
Products | Furniture, lighting, and home accessories
Unique Features | Masaya Company specializes in handcrafted furniture and home decor made from sustainably sourced materials, celebrating the rich artisanal traditions of Nicaragua. Their products, which include unique pieces like beautifully crafted tables and vibrant lighting options, are designed to bring warmth and character to any space. Committed to fair trade practices, Masaya Company empowers local artisans by providing them with fair wages and sustainable employment opportunities. Each item is not only a testament to quality craftsmanship but also contributes to a positive social impact, making it an ideal choice for those seeking stylish, eco-friendly home furnishings.
Price | Mid-range to Luxury
Labels & Certifications: Fair Trade, FSC Certified, OEKO-TEX
Best For |Fair Trade, ethically and sustainably sourced home goods
Products | Furniture, rugs, home décor, textiles
Unique Features | Made Trade is renowned for its commitment to fair trade practices and sustainability. The brand offers a curated selection of ethically sourced furniture, rugs, and home décor, featuring FSC-certified materials and OEKO-TEX certified dyes. Their Fair Trade Certified Furniture is a standout, known for its craftsmanship and social responsibility. Notably, their Handcrafted Ethical Rugs are popular for their unique designs and support for artisans globally, setting Made Trade apart with exclusive, high-quality products that promote ethical consumption.
Price | Mid-range to Luxury
More Responsible Brands
Here are a few more brands that are genuinely committed to either low or non-toxic, eco-friendly, or sustainable practices:
- Boll & Branch
- Eco Balanza
- Crate & Barrel
- Firm Living (Rugs & Furniture)
- Loll Designs
- Lulu & Georgia
- Medley
- Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams
- Room & Board
- Urban Natural Home
- Urban Wood Goods
- Vermont Woods Studios
- Viesso
