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Furnishing Your Home Sustainably: A Guide to Healthier Living

Writer's picture: Katy BolanKaty Bolan

When it comes to our homes, embracing sustainable practices can significantly impact our health and well-being.

Image generated by Wix AI Image Creator
Image generated by Wix AI Image Creator

Why Sustainable Furniture Matters for Your Health

Reduced Exposure to Toxins: Many conventional furniture pieces are manufactured with harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and flame retardants. These chemicals can off-gas into the air, leading to respiratory issues, headaches, and even more serious health problems. Sustainable furniture, on the other hand, is often made from natural, non-toxic materials like organic cotton, reclaimed wood, and bamboo.


Improved Air Quality: Natural materials tend to have better air-purifying qualities, helping to create a healthier indoor environment.


Reduced Environmental Impact: Sustainable furniture minimizes its environmental footprint by using renewable resources, reducing waste, and supporting ethical labor practices. This not only benefits the planet but also promotes a sense of peace and well-being knowing you're making conscious choices.


4 Stores in the U.S. Selling Sustainable Furniture

Below are just a few examples of stores that provide a variety of options, enabling you to make more sustainable choices.


West Elm

Offers a wide range of stylish and sustainable options, including organic cotton rugs, Fair Trade certified furniture, and recycled wood pieces.


Emmerson® Reclaimed Solid Wood Rectangle Coffee Table: Made from unfinished reclaimed pine wood, this piece shows off knots and natural imperfections but is streamlined in shape, so it easily complements.
Emmerson® Reclaimed Solid Wood Rectangle Coffee Table: Made from unfinished reclaimed pine wood, this piece shows off knots and natural imperfections but is streamlined in shape, so it easily complements.

The Citizenry

According to their website, The Citizenry partners with master artisans in each country to blend modern style with time-tested techniques. By working directly with artisans, The Citizenry is able to offer handmade goods crafted with the highest quality materials, at more reasonable prices than traditional luxury boutiques. "The company is committed to fair wages, happy working environments, and sustaining grants for its artisan partners. Their handcrafted products not only leverage all-natural materials but these age-old, small batch craft techniques have low carbon emissions and zero waste. % of wood products are sourced with responsible forestry methods, some being certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or SVLK. Wool and leather materials are ethically sourced, protecting the welfare of animals in every step of process."


Laurel Bed with Low Footboard: "Elevate your bedroom with this heirloom bed, handcrafted with the finest materials made to stand the test of time. by a team of master frame builders and upholsterers in Hickory, North Carolina, each piece celebrates timeless design and American craftsmanship. All made start-to-finish in a fair trade environment with FSC-certified wood."
Laurel Bed with Low Footboard: "Elevate your bedroom with this heirloom bed, handcrafted with the finest materials made to stand the test of time. by a team of master frame builders and upholsterers in Hickory, North Carolina, each piece celebrates timeless design and American craftsmanship. All made start-to-finish in a fair trade environment with FSC-certified wood."

1stDibs or Etsy

A vast online marketplaces for unique and handcrafted items, including a wide array of sustainable furniture and decor made by independent artisans, and vintage pre-loved furnishings. Reusing whenever you can helps reduce the need for new virgin materials.



1stDibs: 1970's Hollywood Regency style Tall Bed Side Cabinets/ Night Stands
1stDibs: 1970's Hollywood Regency style Tall Bed Side Cabinets/ Night Stands
Etsy: Vintage 9-Drawer French Provincial Hollywood Thomasville Dresser
Etsy: Vintage 9-Drawer French Provincial Hollywood Thomasville Dresser

Tips for Choosing Sustainable Furniture

  • Look for certifications: Seek out furniture with certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), and Fair Trade.

  • Prioritize natural materials: Opt for pieces made from sustainable materials like bamboo, reclaimed wood, organic cotton, and natural fibers.

  • Support local artisans: Whenever possible, choose furniture made by local artisans who use sustainable practices.






  • Consider secondhand options: Explore thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces for pre-loved furniture.

  • Invest in quality: High-quality, well-made furniture will last longer, reducing waste and minimizing the need for frequent replacements.






By making conscious choices about the furniture and decor we bring into our homes, we can create healthier living spaces for ourselves and the planet.


I hope this blog post provides you with valuable insights into the world of sustainable furniture and decor!


Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

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