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Are you ready to make your bedroom an eco-friendly sleep sanctuary?
Whether you're just starting to dip your toes into sustainable living or looking for more ways to create a healthier home environment…non-toxic bedroom furniture is the way to go!
This article will walk you through some of the best ways to leave hazardous materials behind and choose products made with sustainability and your health in mind.
From knowing which materials are safe to understanding where they come from, I'll soon have you confident in choosing sustainable furniture brands you can trust.
My family and I have tested a wide range of non-toxic furniture options in the following categories:
Nightstand | Dresser | Bookshelf | Wardrobe | Mirror | Bench | Mattress | Bed | Headboard
Read on to discover which pieces made the cut.
Also, later in this article, I'll discuss what you should look for (and what to avoid) when shopping for non-toxic bedroom furniture. But first, these are the pieces we highly recommend...
✔ SVLK Certified
✔ Fair Trade
✔ Handcrafted by Master Artisans
They Say: With light mindi wood, cane accents, and leather pull detail, this nightstand brings a polished look to any bedside. And because we're all about the details – we went the extra mile by designing left- and right-side cabinet door openings to work with both sides of your bed.
We Say: The Citizenry Kayan Nightstand is the perfect piece of furniture for creating a luxurious boudoir.
Crafted from quality materials, it's designed to last. The craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the hand-crafted cane weave and leather pull details to the two-day creation process by skilled Indonesian artisans.
I love that this nightstand is SVLK certified (giving you assurances that the wood used was sourced legally and sustainably).
This is my first time encountering mindi wood, and I hope it won't be my last. It looks similar to oak (with lovely natural colors and an understated grain).
You can buy both left-hand and right-hand opening versions. So you can have symmetrical bedside tables on each side of your bed if you wish.
You can shop at The Citizenry, safe in the knowledge that all their products are certified Fair Trade by the World Fair Trade Organization. This means all the workers crafting your furniture were paid fairly and looked after.
If you're looking for a bedside table that is stylish, reliable, and ethically made…this piece from The Citizenry should be your top choice.
✔ 100% Reclaimed Wood
✔ Handmade in the USA
✔ Climate Neutral Certified
They Say: We handcraft our Natural Wood Dresser in our FSC® C156318 certified Los Angeles woodshop from 100% reclaimed solid wood. Choose from a 3-drawer or 6-drawer design. Comes in a "rustic raw" finish and a zero-VOC sealant.
We Say: Avocado's Natural Wood Dresser is a beautiful and sustainable piece of furniture that will last for generations.
This heirloom-quality dresser is made from reclaimed solid wood, giving it character and making it unique.
It has no knobs or handles, giving it a clean look, and comes in a 3-drawer or 6-drawer design.
I love Avocado as a brand because its company ethics are as high quality as its products…and this dresser is no exception. It's Climate Neutral Certified, GREENGUARD Gold certified for low emissions, and Formaldehyde Free certified by UL Environment (making it a great choice to reduce your environmental footprint and indoor air quality).
Yes, it's a pricey piece of furniture. However, I feel it's worth every dollar. I have no doubt it will last a lifetime and be passed down for generations to come.
This dresser ships fully assembled, and the price includes free shipping and setup to addresses within the continental USA (unfortunately, Avocado doesn't currently ship to Alaska and Hawaii).
A ten-year warranty protects your investment, and 0% financing options are available.
✔ USA Grown Hardwood
✔ Natural Oil Finished
✔ Heavy Duty
They Say: All your hardwood needs. Only made from USA-grown Poplar hardwood. Local small business in Burkeville, Virginia, US.
We Say: The Consdan Industrial Bookshelf is an impressive combination of USA-grown hardwood and local craftsmanship.
It has a heavy-duty metal frame and can support 350 lbs per shelf.
It's finished with an all-natural vegetable oil and wax polish and adds a beautiful touch of industrial chic to any space.
Assembling the bookshelf was a breeze, with step-by-step instructions that were simple to follow.
There are two size options available:
With its versatile functions, modern styling, and handy adjustable legs (to get the bookshelf perfectly level), the Consdan Industrial Bookshelf is a great addition to any bedroom (or most other rooms!).
Free shipping is available on all orders to addresses in the 48 contiguous states within the US.
✔ 100% Solid Wood
✔ Family-Owned and Operated
✔ Non-Toxic Low-VOC Paint
They Say: Made of 100% solid pine wood, this customizable wardrobe features a sturdy construction that can last for years.
We Say: Wardrobe. Armoire. Closet. Whatever you call it (wardrobe for me), this is a stunning piece of bedroom furniture from Grain Wood Furniture.
Not only does it look great and will fit most bedroom decor, but it's made with durable materials that will last for years.
It's made of 100% solid pine wood (no hidden particle board or MDF) from sustainable and renewable forests.
The lovely sustainable wood is coated with non-toxic, low-VOC paint with solvents from renewable sources.
It's also as practical as it is eco-friendly. The adjustable shelves and drawers offer plenty of storage space, making it perfect for any bedroom.
Grain Wood Furniture is a family-owned business established in Virginia Beach, VA, in 2015 and still operates there.
Sustainable, non-toxic, and family-owned… what's not to love?
✔ Sustainable Organic Wood
✔ Rustic Look
✔ Charitable Giveback Program
They Say: This organic wood triple mirror will make waves on your wall. In a natural finish, this unique mirror is right at home in mid-century and boho-styled rooms.
We Say: This is a contentious choice in the Miller house. I loved it as soon as it arrived. Mrs. M is not so keen (she's more of a clean lines kind of gal…while I appreciate a bit of chaos!).
The rustic look of this mirror works really well, in my opinion.
The wood quality is excellent and doesn't show dust and dirt easily. When it does start to look a bit grubby, a simple wipe down with a dry cloth does the trick.
Viva Terra is a company that just loves giving back.
Its VIVAheart program supports a wide range of local and national charitable ventures, so you can be sure that every purchase you make from VivaTerra does good for someone somewhere in the US.
✔ Sustainable
✔ Durable
✔ Versatile
They Say: Add rich, rustic style and high function to any space with our Richland Indoor/Outdoor Reclaimed Wood Bench.
We Say: Mrs. M loves a bench…and this bench is her absolute favorite!
In fact, she likes it so much that she bought two for her parent's anniversary for use as coffee tables in their lounge and garden room.
My tastes often differ from hers. But with this piece, we're both on the same page. It's stunning!
The Richland Indoor/Outdoor Bench is an excellent addition to any space it graces. Its rustic charm and durable construction make it the perfect indoor and outdoor choice.
I love reclaimed wood furniture. It means you can feel good about the eco-credentials of your furniture while enjoying its unique character. So much better than engineered wood!
This bench is not just sustainable, though. It's also versatile and hard-wearing.
Our bench lives at the bottom of our bed and houses Mrs. M's EXTENSIVE collection of cushions, pillows, and blankets that need to be removed from our bed before we can get into it!
However, it would fit perfectly in a bathroom, living room, or even outside for cookouts and summer parties.
The powder-coated steel legs and chunky wooden construction mean this bench will last decades and could become an heirloom piece you pass down through generations.
Just like you, this bench is committed to sustainability and style. It's an eco-friendly choice for any room or outside space. With its unique character, versatile design, and durable materials…you can't go wrong!
I've tested a vast array of non-toxic mattresses (my dream job…literally! 😁) over the years and for me, the latex-free Puffy Mattress and the Plushbeds Botanical Bliss organic latex mattress are the two that stand out.
To get more of my recommendations and in-depth buyer's guides, check out the following articles:
The years I've spent getting paid to sleep also means that I've tested more than my fair share of bed frames, and I know they're equally important for getting a healthy sleep.
Again these are covered in detail in other articles. So if it's a non-toxic metal or solid wooden bed frame you're looking for, these are the guides you need:
Joining mattresses and bed frames for the sleepy trifecta are headboards. Often overlooked, but just as vital. If you want to find the ones that have zero VOC finishes and no toxic flame retardants, this is the guide you need:
VOCs (volatile organic compounds) contain carbon and are volatile, which means they tend to vaporize and quickly enter the atmosphere.
Some commonly occurring VOCs include formaldehyde, benzene, and acetone.
Formaldehyde is commonly found in pressed-wood products, such as furniture and cabinetry, and can also be found in carpeting and adhesives.
Benzene is used in producing plastics, resins, and synthetic fibers and can be found in products such as gasoline, paint, and cigarette smoke.
Acetone is often used in nail polish remover, paint thinner, and certain cleaners.
Sources of VOCs are vast and can be found both indoors and outdoors, and extended exposure to VOCs can negatively affect your health.
VOCs also play a significant role in environmental pollution. When released into the atmosphere, they can react with other pollutants and contribute to issues such as smog, acid rain, and climate change.
Reducing VOC exposure is essential to ensure good health and a healthy environment.
Creating a safe and comfortable bedroom is essential for a good night's sleep.
However, finding furniture made with non-toxic glues and materials can be quite a challenge. With so many options on the market, it's hard to know which ones are safe and durable.
Fortunately, by bearing in mind the following considerations, you can ensure that your bedroom is not only aesthetically pleasing but also free of toxic chemicals.
The first step in finding chemical-free furniture for your bedroom is learning about different safety standards and green certifications.
Some of the best include:
These certifications ensure that the furniture is made to strict safety and ethical standards and will be free from harmful chemicals.
The materials used to construct furniture can also impact the air quality in your bedroom.
Avoid synthetic materials such as PVC, MDF, and particleboard because they can release VOCs for the glue used to hold the layers of wood together.
Instead, opt for natural materials such as bamboo or solid wood furniture.
When buying non-toxic furniture, you should make sure to find out about how it's made.
Choose pieces manufactured without harmful glues or finishes.
Additionally, ensure you research the manufacturer's sustainability practices. It's essential to buy from brands committed to reducing their environmental impact.
Non-toxic bedroom furniture can be more expensive than traditional mass-produced furniture, so be prepared to pay a little extra for safer alternatives.
Remember, investing in quality furniture prevents the need to replace it sooner, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
Always make sure to off-gas your new bedroom furniture outside (or in a garage or outhouse if the weather is bad) before bringing it into your bedroom.
Off-gassing is the process of allowing a new product to release any trapped VOCs.
You can read more on this topic in my furniture off-gassing article.
Chemical flame retardants like polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) and tris (1,3 -dichloroisopropyl) phosphate (TDCPP) can be toxic if inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
Look for furniture made with non-toxic alternatives, such as wool, which is naturally flame-retardant.
Chemical water and stain repellents often contain perfluorochemicals (PFCs) that can also harm your health.
Instead, opt for furniture treated with natural oils or waxes, which are much safer and less toxic.
Vinyl and PVC (found in some upholstery and soft furnishings) can contain high levels of phthalates.
Phthalates are a group of chemicals linked to numerous health risks and are prohibited by law in certain products in the USA.
Therefore, it's essential to choose natural and sustainable fabrics instead. Organic cotton, hemp, and linen are all great options for upholstery and soft furnishings.
As well as ensuring your furniture is non-toxic, you can also take further steps to reduce chemical exposure in your bedroom, such as:
I recommend avoiding softwoods such as pine, which can easily dent and scratch, as well as engineered wood like MDF and particleboard, which are prone to sagging and warping over time.
Engineered wood products can also contain adhesives and resins that may contain formaldehyde. They might also emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which have been linked to health effects such as headaches, nausea, and respiratory problems.
These composite woods are covered by the EPA Formaldehyde Emission Standards for Composite Wood Products Act developed in conjunction with the California Air Resources Board (CARB). However, many consumers are still wary that the regulations do not go far enough, and prefer wooden products with non-toxic finishes.
Formaldehyde is sometimes used in the manufacturing process of wooden furniture as an adhesive to bind wood particles together. Although formaldehyde is a component of many household products, it can pose a danger to human health if exposure exceeds safe limits.
According to the World Health Organization, formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen, with long-term exposure linked to respiratory issues, as well as nasopharyngeal cancer.
Exposure to formaldehyde can occur through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion, which is why it is important to purchase furniture that is certified as formaldehyde-free.
GreenGuard Gold certification is a designation given to products that meet rigorous standards for indoor air pollution. It is designed to prove that products are safe for use in environments such as bedrooms, where air quality is of the highest importance.
The GreenGuard Gold certification process, when applied to the furniture industry, involves intense and thorough tests for over 10,000 VOCs and chemicals that are known to pollute the air in your home.
The strict air quality limits for GreenGuard Gold include:
This label is particularly important if you are shopping for products such as furniture, flooring, and building materials, and many of the best organic bedroom furniture brands have achieved (or are working towards) certification
Secondhand wooden furniture is usually non-toxic but this depends on what it is made from and how long it has been owned previously.
It has the potential to be an excellent option for eco-friendly consumers as most of the VOC off-gassing should have already occurred.
However, it's important to examine the furniture closely, especially if it has been stored in an attic or basement, which could expose it to moisture, mold, and pests.
Yes, genuine rattan furniture is a great non-toxic option as it's made from natural materials and contains no synthetic chemicals.
Rattan is also very durable and stylish, making it perfect if you're looking to add charm to your bedroom.
Yes, provided you buy well-made metal furniture with no toxic coatings, it can be considered non-toxic.
However, I prefer real wood bedroom furniture. I discuss metal vs. wood in terms of bed frames in this article, and some of the points raised also apply to furniture in general.
I've not tested any West Elm furniture, so I can't comment fully on their eco-credentials. However, they have pledged to plant 6 million trees, which is a positive sign.
Non-toxic furniture is essential for creating a healthy and sustainable sleep sanctuary.
When shopping for bedroom furniture, look for safety certifications, materials, and zero-VOC finishes that won't release harmful chemicals into your home.
Additionally, keep the manufacturing process in mind and always buy from sustainable brands that pay a living wage and treat their workers ethically.
By being mindful of these considerations and doing your homework (or letting me do it for you), you can ensure that your bedroom is free from toxins and will be a healthy place for sleep and relaxation.
What are your favorite sustainable furniture manufacturers? Do you prefer the warmth of wooden furniture? Or is the industrial look of metal furniture more your thing?
Have I missed any of your favorite non-toxic furniture brands that use natural oil or organic natural glues? Drop me a line and let me know.
Our core values mean we always prioritize sustainability over profit. We carefully evaluate and personally test every product to ensure they meet our high standards. All products recommended in this article were tested in accordance with our Review Methodology.
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