How can I reduce my exposure to Proposition 65-listed chemicals from furniture products?
When choosing furniture products, look for items:
- Made with materials that are not treated with flame retardants. Note that polyurethane foam is especially likely to contain flame retardants.
- Made with solid wood, stainless steel, or formaldehyde-free composite wood.
- That do not have polyvinyl chloride (PVC) materials, which may contain phthalates.
Certain labels on furniture products can help you minimize your exposure to flame retardants and formaldehyde:
- For upholstered products:
- Look for the TB 117-2013 label required by California law. If the label says “contain[s] NO added flame retardant chemicals,” the product does not contain significant levels of flame retardants.
- If you do not see a TB 117-2013 label, ask if flame retardants have been added to the product.
- Also look for the federal Consumer Product Safety Commission label that states “Complies with U.S. CPSC requirements for upholstered furniture flammability.” This indicates compliance with California’s existing TB117-2013 flammability requirements.
- Look for furniture products with low formaldehyde gas emission labels with the following language:
- TSCA Title VI Compliant and California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase 2 Compliant.
- No-added formaldehyde (NAF).
- Ultra-low-emitting formaldehyde (ULEF).
Other ways to protect yourself:
- Air out new furniture products made from composite wood that may release formaldehyde, where possible. At first, leave them in a well-ventilated area to allow any formaldehyde to dissipate.
- Maintain low humidity and temperatures indoors. More formaldehyde is released in hot and damp environments.
- Replace or reupholster furniture products that have exposed or crumbling foam.
- Minimize your exposure to dust, which can contain Proposition 65-listed chemicals.
- Wash your hands and your child’s hands frequently, especially before preparing food and before eating.
- Clean your floors regularly, using a wet mop or a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, if possible.
- Dust regularly, using a damp cloth
