Current Trends in Non-Toxic Consumer Advocacy

In the last few years, consumer pressure has really changed the furniture and household goods industry. With consumers demanding that companies are more transparent, that they eliminate toxic additives, and provide less toxic alternatives, things have shifted a lot. These are a few key areas of change:

1. Flame retardants

It was only a few years ago that toxic flame retardants were the norm in all polyurethane foam which is used in almost all sofas and beds.

There generally isn't any added flame retardant in foam now. You might see borates from time to time or a layer of fabric that provides some flame resistance, but the toxic chemicals in foam are a thing of the past (at least in North America).

This was a win that has already been achieved.

2. Stain Guard Chemicals

PFAS (polyfluorinated substances) the so-called "forever chemicals" are the most concerning of stain guard chemicals. This is the current edge of the movement towards non-toxic homes. PFAS are still the norm in carpet, rugs, and on upholstered furniture. I list out the select brands that do not use PFAS in my posts on sofas, carpets, and rugs.

This will be the frontier of the movement over the next few years. There are non-toxic alternatives like silicone-based stain guard treatments.

3. Antimicrobials

There has been a shift lately towards nano-silver antimicrobials from the chemical antimicrobials which were the norm before. These can be found in countertop sealers, in some countertops themselves, on clothing, in grout, etc. I do think nano-silver is less toxic than chemical antimicrobials for the most part, however, these aren't necessary in most cases.

In some types of household products, antimicrobials function as a preservative. Paint for example, if it's liquid and comes in a can, contains a preservative. We can make moves towards non-red list chemicals here, but we still need a preservative.

4. Pesticides

Pesticides are found mostly in wool rugs and wool carpets. Permethrin specifically is a pesticide that inhibits moths that is added to the vast majority of carpets and rugs.

I do think we should continue to push for safer pesticides, or none at all in some cases, in rugs and carpets. There are natural safe alternatives to permethrin like neem which is a far better option.

Conclusion:

These are the most concerning chemicals currently found in furnishings and where I think we should focus our effects as consumers and consumer advocates. Things are getting better because of us and will continue to do so.

Corinne Segura is a Buiding Biologist who helps folks create healthy homes at www.mychemicalfreehouse.net