The furniture industry in the United States is regulated by a combination of federal, state, and local entities.
Critics argue that the current regulations may not cover all potential risks associated with furniture. Regulations might not adequately address emerging materials, chemicals, or manufacturing practices that could pose health or environmental hazards.
There are concerns about enforcing furniture regulations. If regulations are not enforced properly or applied inconsistently, it can allow non-compliant products to enter the market, potentially harming the consumers.
Did you know that the average American spends 93% of their life indoors, where the concentration of pollutants can be up to 5 times higher than outdoors. We eat, sleep, and breathe in our homes, and most of our interactions occur within this environment that has been created for us.
Choosing certified products help us to avoid the health implications of carcinogens and other toxic materials that might be present in interior furnishings,materials and furniture items.
In today's world, we're always looking for convenience and instant gratification. It's so easy to order furniture from places like Amazon, Wayfair, Ikea, or Target. But often, this furniture is mass-produced using cheap materials. It's convenient, but it has a big impact on the environment.
Recently, the EPA found that 12 million tons of furniture went to the landfill in the United States in a single year. Only 60 years ago, this was less than 2.2 million tons.
Not only is buying quality and durable furniture friendly for the environment, it's also friendly on the pocket in the longer run, as you don't have to keep replacing or maintaining your furniture.
Sustainable certifications act as verifiable proof that a product meets rigorous environmental and ethical standards. They provide consumers with the assurance that their purchase aligns with their values and contributes to a more sustainable future.
When it comes to purchasing items for your home, it's crucial to consider how they are made, who made them, what they are made of, and the materials used. Every detail matters when it comes to creating a sustainable home.
Sustainable certifications help you understand these details. They show the items are made of high-quality materials, made to last for a very long time, not harmful to you or the environment, and made using fair trade practices.
And when you’re done with them, you can pass them on to someone and make the product circular instead of just dumping it.
As the demand for furniture, housing, and agricultural land continues to rise, forests across the globe are rapidly disappearing. It is estimated that we lose approximately 18.7 million acres of forests each year, along with the diverse biodiversity they sustain. Statistics reveal the alarming reality of this industry's ecological footprint. According to research, the furniture sector accounts for approximately 9% of global carbon emissions, with deforestation associated with timber production contributing to 15% of total greenhouse gas emissions.
By using sustainable practices and materials, certified products reduce their impact on the environment. They minimize carbon emissions, create less waste, and conserve valuable resources. In short, these certifications ensure that furniture and home decor items are made in a way that is better for the planet.
When we choose certified sustainable furniture and decor, we are supporting companies that care about the planet and are working towards a greener future. It's not just about saving the environment, but also about creating spaces that make us happy and healthy. By prioritizing sustainable choices, we can live in harmony with nature and enjoy a better quality of life.
Now that you know why certifications are important, it's time to dive into some popular certifications and understand what they stand for
Importantly, keep an eye out for the logos. Most certified products or brands will display only the logo of these certifications, which you will have to learn to identify.
In fact, you might have come across the logos of some of these certifications but did not get a chance to recognize them or learn more about them. And this is our attempt to do just that, in giving you a comprehensive look into these certifications, and a guide towards creating a sustainable home.
What is the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)?
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a global non-profit organization founded in 1993. FSC ensures the sustainable use of forest resources and promotes responsible forest management. Its importance lies in providing a credible and trusted certification system that verifies products made from responsibly sourced timber and paper.
FSC works to combat deforestation, protect biodiversity, and support the rights of local communities and workers in forested areas. It sets strict environmental and social standards that forest managers and companies must adhere to, in order to obtain FSC certification. This includes practices such as avoiding illegal logging, protecting endangered species, and respecting the rights of indigenous communities.
What products does the FSC certify?
FSC certification applies to a wide range of forest-based products, including wood and paper products, such as lumber, plywood, furniture, flooring, and packaging materials. It also extends to non-timber forest products like medicinal plants, resins, and fibers such as cellulose fibers (e.g., viscose, modal, lyocell) derived from trees.
The FSC has certified 160 million hectares of forest worldwide. Over 40,000 companies are certified to deal in FSC products. Those products, from books to tissues to beds, can either come from FSC-only material (FSC 100%), from a variety of sources but with at least 50% FSC-certified content (FSC Mixed Sources) or recycled (FSC 100% Recycled).
How do companies get FSC certified?
FSC is responsible for developing sustainable forestry standards and working with stakeholders to implement them. They do not issue certificates themselves but rely on independent certification bodies to issue them. The company seeking certification submits an application to an FSC-accredited certification body, providing information about its products, supply chain, and management practices.
The certification body conducts an evaluation to determine if the company meets the FSC standards. This includes reviewing documents, conducting interviews, and potentially visiting the company's facilities and supply chain partners. An on-site audit is conducted to verify compliance with FSC requirements. This involves examining records, conducting interviews, and assessing the company's practices and procedures related to forest management, chain of custody, and environmental and social criteria.
If the company meets all the requirements, they are issued an FSC certificate. Once certified, the company undergoes regular monitoring and audits by the certification body to ensure ongoing compliance with FSC standards. This includes periodic site visits, document reviews, and stakeholder consultations. The company also needs to establish a chain of custody system to track the flow of FSC-certified materials from the forest to the final product.
Things to know about the FSC certification
What is Cradle to Cradle (C2C)?
Cradle to Cradle (C2C) is an innovative design framework that seeks to develop products and systems with a positive environmental and human health impact. It was first introduced in William McDonough and Michael Braungart’s 2002 book, “Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things.”The concept is based on the idea that materials used in products should be viewed as nutrients that can be continuously cycled and reused, rather than ending up as waste.
The importance of Cradle to Cradle lies in its holistic approach to sustainability. It goes beyond just reducing negative impacts and focuses on creating positive benefits. The framework encourages the use of safe and healthy materials, promotes renewable energy, and advocates for social responsibility throughout the supply chain. The cradle-to-cradle approach entails designing products in a way that allows their materials and components to be continuously repurposed or recycled. This "circular" approach ensures that old products are not wasted, reducing their environmental impacts.
C2C encourages manufacturers to design products with materials that can be easily disassembled and recycled. By embracing this approach, furniture companies can minimize waste, conserve resources, and reduce the environmental footprint of their products. C2C helps companies develop sustainable strategies and create future-oriented products. It provides guidelines for designing circular products and establishing responsible supply chains. It also emphasizes material health and cooperation throughout the value cycle chain. It aims to design products that are environmentally and socially responsible, focusing on health and safety, waste elimination through restoration and upcycling, clean energy use, water conservation, and respect for human and natural systems.
What products does the Cradle to Cradle certify?
C2C certifies home decor, furniture, textiles, building materials, cleaning products, clothing + accessories, and personal care items. Across various categories, over 34,000 products have received Cradle to Cradle Certification® to date.
How do companies get Cradle to Cradle certified?
Cradle to Cradle products are certified by a qualified independent assessment body. The Products Program evaluates products across five categories: Material Health, Material Reutilization, Renewable Energy Use, Water Stewardship, and Social Responsibility. The certification program provides five levels of certification: Basic, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Each level has progressively stricter criteria and requirements. To achieve certification at a specific level, the assessed product and manufacturing processes must meet the criteria set for that level in all five categories. This rigorous evaluation ensures that certified products meet high standards of health and sustainability, promoting a circular and responsible approach to product design and production.
The independent body conducts an initial evaluation to determine if the product is within the scope of certification. It is cross-referenced with the Banned chemical list.
The company needs to submit an application for certification along with any necessary proprietary information. The independent body will review your submission and provide a time and cost estimate. The company will have to collaborate with them to collect all the required data for certification. This may involve an on-site audit at the manufacturing facility. After all the required information and the necessary documents are collected, the completed certification packet is submitted to the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute (C2CPII) for review. The C2CPII reviews the certification packet and supporting documentation to ensure completeness and accuracy. If approved, they issue a certificate allowing the use of the Cradle to Cradle Certified® mark. Certification remains valid for a period of two years and must be renewed every two years to maintain its validity.
Things to know about the Cradle to Cradle certification
What is the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)?
GOTS, short for Global Organic Textile Standard, is a widely recognized certification for textiles produced from organic fibers. It was established in 2006 by four leading organizations in the organic textile industry. GOTS certification ensures that products, from fibers to finished textiles, meet strict environmental and social criteria. GOTS-certified products use approved dyes and chemicals, avoid harmful substances, and manage wastewater properly. Social criteria include fair employment practices, no child labor, and respect for workers' rights.
It applies to a range of organic fibers, including cotton, wool, flax (linen), silk, and hemp fabric. Products that contain a minimum of 70% certified fibers can carry the GOTS label, while those with at least 95% certified organic fibers can be considered fully GOTS organic. Additionally, the label grade "organic in conversion" is allowed for agricultural practices that are in the process of transitioning towards organic within a 3-year conversion period.
What products does the GOTS certify?
GOTS certification covers the entire textile supply chain, including the processing and manufacturing of fibers, yarns, fabrics, and finished textile products. Some examples of products that can be GOTS-certified include organic cotton garments, bedding and linens, towels, socks, baby clothing, sportswear, and accessories like hats and bags.
How do companies get GOTS certified?
The criteria to be GOTS certified covers every stage of the textile supply chain, from the sourcing of raw materials to the final product.
The certification process begins with the applicant, typically a textile manufacturer or brand, submitting an application to a GOTS-approved certification body(third party). The certification body conducts an initial evaluation of the applicant's compliance with GOTS criteria. This evaluation includes an inspection of the production facilities and a review of documentation related to organic fiber sourcing, chemical use, waste management, and social criteria. These inspections also cover aspects of the supply chain, including fiber production, spinning, weaving, dyeing, printing, and final manufacturing. Additionally, periodic residue testing of products is performed to verify the absence of harmful substances. If the applicant meets the GOTS criteria, they are granted a GOTS certification.
Things to know about the GOTS certification
What is Greenguard?
The Greenguard certification is an independent and rigorous certification program that verifies low chemical emissions in products to promote healthier indoor environments. It was established by UL (Underwriters Laboratories) in 2005. It ensures that the products have low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful emissions, making them safer for use in indoor spaces. Underwriters Laboratory issues this certification after testing products for more than 360 different VOCs.
Interior products have a significant impact on indoor air quality, emitting numerous chemicals into the air. Greenguard Certification ensures that products are low-emitting and promote healthier interiors. By choosing Greenguard-certified products, consumers can reduce their exposure to potentially harmful chemicals and improve the air quality in their homes and workplaces. It also encourages manufacturers to adopt cleaner and more sustainable production practices. It ensures that furniture products, such as sofas, chairs, and tables, have undergone rigorous testing for emissions and meet strict air quality standards. This certification is essential for those concerned about indoor air pollution and seeking healthier options for their homes.
What products does Greenguard certify?
Greenguard certification covers a wide range of products, including furniture, mattresses, building materials, electronics, cleaning products, window treatments, cabinets, children's products, etc. To date, more than 900 manufacturers have volunteered to participate in Greenguard Certification, with a total of more than 50,000 certified products.
How do companies get Greenguard certified?
Greenguard offers two certifications for products, Greenguard and Greenguard Gold. The main difference between the two of them is the level of stringency in their certification criteria. While both certifications focus on low-emitting products that contribute to better indoor air quality, GREENGUARD Gold has stricter standards and allows for even lower levels of chemical emissions. It sets more stringent limits for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and includes additional requirements for formaldehyde and phthalates.
The certification process involves extensive testing of product samples in independent laboratories. Products are tested for their emissions of various VOCs and other pollutants. To obtain certification, products must meet the stringent emission limits set by Greenguard.
The certification process begins with the product manufacturer submitting detailed information about the product, including its composition, materials used, and manufacturing processes. This information is reviewed by Greenguard to determine if it meets its stringent requirements. If the product meets the initial criteria, it then undergoes extensive testing in an independent laboratory. The testing evaluates the product for the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals. The product must meet the specified emission limits set by Greenguard for various chemicals and pollutants.
In addition to laboratory testing, the certification also includes an assessment of the product's manufacturing processes and quality control measures. This evaluation ensures that the product is consistently produced to meet the required standards. Once the testing and evaluation are completed successfully, the product is awarded the GREENGUARD Gold certification. This certification indicates that the product has low chemical emissions and is safe for use in indoor environments, including schools, healthcare facilities, and other sensitive spaces.
Things to know about the Greenguard certification
What is B Corp?
B Corp, or Benefit Corporation, is a certification that shows a company is committed to doing good for people and the planet. It was started in 2006 by a nonprofit organization called B Lab. B Corporation is a unique certification that goes beyond fair trade practices and emphasizes a balanced approach between purpose and profit for businesses. These companies prioritize the well-being of their workers, customers, suppliers, and the environment.
What products does the B Corp certify?
B Corp certification applies to the overall business and not specific products, it signifies that the company as a whole operates in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. At present, there are over 6,000 Certified B Corporations operating in over 80 countries across a wide range of industries, spanning more than 150 sectors.
How do companies get B corp certified?
Companies begin by completing an online eligibility assessment to determine if they meet the basic requirements for B Corp certification. If a company qualifies, it must complete the B Impact Assessment, which evaluates its performance across various impact areas, such as governance, workers, community, environment, and customers. The assessment measures the company's overall social and environmental impact. A company must achieve a minimum score of 80 out of 200 points to become certified. Then they are required to provide supporting documentation and evidence to verify the information provided in the impact assessment.
B Lab, the nonprofit organization that administers B Corp certification, reviews the impact assessment, supporting documentation, and disclosure materials. They may also conduct additional interviews or site visits as part of the verification process. Site Reviews may be conducted virtually (via video call) or onsite (in-person) depending on the company size, location, and other standards-related factors.
If any areas for improvement are identified during the assessment, companies are given the opportunity to make changes. After completing the assessment and verification process, B Lab makes the final decision on whether a company qualifies for B Corp certification. If approved, the company becomes a certified B Corp and can use the B Corp logo and branding. B Corp certification sets a higher standard by making the evaluation process more standardized and accountable.
Things to know about the B corp certification
What is Fairtrade?
Fairtrade is an international certification system that aims to improve the livelihoods of farmers and workers in developing countries. It was established in 1988 as a response to unfair trade practices.
Fairtrade operates through partnerships between brands, manufacturers, and farmers or cooperatives in developing countries
Fairtrade certification ensures that products are produced under ethical and sustainable conditions, with a focus on empowering workers and protecting the environment. It guarantees fair wages, and safe working conditions, and prohibits the use of child and slave labor. Additionally, Fair Trade-certified factories are committed to environmental sustainability through measures like water efficiency, waste reduction, and reduced chemical usage.
What products does the Fairtrade certify?
Fairtrade certification covers various products, including agricultural commodities like coffee, cocoa, tea, bananas, and sugar, as well as non-agricultural products like cotton and gold. It also covers clothing, ethical jewelry, and home decor products, particularly those that involve artisan craftsmanship or sustainable sourcing practices. The Fairtrade Mark is displayed on over 37,000 products globally.
How do companies get Fairtrade certified?
A company interested in Fairtrade certification contacts the Fairtrade team. The team understands the business and its specific supply chain and devises a plan to get them certified. This includes how the company can meet the Fairtrade Standards, which cover social, economic, and environmental criteria. These standards aim to ensure fair and sustainable production practices, fair prices for producers, safe working conditions, and environmental protection. The company must implement these standards in its operations.
After implementing the Fairtrade Standards, an independent third-party certification body FLOCERT conducts an audit of the company’s supply chain compliance with the standards. This assessment verifies that the required criteria are being met, including fair wages, fair trade practices, and adherence to environmental guidelines. Brands that seek Fairtrade certification commit to sourcing their raw materials, such as cotton or other fibers, from Fairtrade-certified producers. The certification process involves a comprehensive assessment of the entire supply chain, from production to packaging. If the company meets all the requirements, they are granted Fairtrade certification. Periodic audits and reviews are conducted to ensure ongoing compliance with the Fairtrade Standards. This helps maintain the integrity of the certification and ensures continuous improvement in fair and sustainable practices.
Things to know about the Fairtrade certification
What is the Eco-Institut?
The Eco-Institut is a highly regarded organization specializing in testing products for pollutants and emissions. It was established in 1988 in Germany and has since gained recognition worldwide for its expertise in assessing the environmental and health impacts of various products.
Eco-Institut certification contributes to healthier indoor environments and sustainable consumption. By certifying products with low emissions, the organization helps consumers make informed choices and select items that have a reduced impact on air quality and human health. It assures furniture you purchase has undergone thorough testing for harmful emissions. This certification is particularly relevant for those who are sensitive to chemicals or concerned about indoor air pollution.
What products does the Eco-Institut certify?
They conduct thorough assessments on a wide range of items, including building materials, flooring, mattresses, furniture, automotive interior equipment, and everyday consumer goods like toys and electronics. Currently, over 100 manufacturers place their trust in the eco-INSTITUT label.
How do companies get Eco-Institut certified?
Eco-Institut certification involves rigorous testing to ensure that products meet strict criteria for low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful substances. The organization also assesses products for factors such as pollutant content, odor emissions, and compliance with relevant legal requirements. The certification process begins with companies sending product samples along with a list of materials to see if products qualify for approval. Initial tests on the material are conducted by independent third parties. Once it passes, the Eco-Institute conducts its own tests inside its laboratories. Products that pass this test are issued labels for certification. Other products are sent back for changes and advice before being tested again.
Things to know about the Eco-Institut certification
What is Made Safe?
Made Safe is a non-profit organization that focuses on certifying and promoting safe and non-toxic products. It was established in 2011 to address the widespread use of harmful chemicals in everyday products and raise awareness about their potential health and environmental impacts.
The founder Amy Ziff is a journalist and a mother. She started researching why her twin babies were always getting sick, and she couldn't figure out why. She learned what goes into everyday products and realized it was because of the toxic chemicals. She thought there had to be a better way, that we needed to take real steps to fundamentally change this system because our lives depend on it. And that marked the beginning of Made Safe.
Made Safe is the first non-toxic certification in the United States, ensuring that finished products are made from materials, components, and ingredients that are not known to be harmful to human health or the environment. Unlike most specific-category seals, Made Safe evaluates a broad range of categories, making it applicable to everyday items people use.
What products does Made Safe certify?
Made Safe evaluates a wide range of consumer products, including personal care items, household cleaners, baby products, and apparel and decor items like pillows, throws, mattresses, sheets, cribs, etc. There are no 601 products that are certified by Made Safe.
How do companies get Made Safe certified?
The certification process for the Made Safe seal is rigorous, scientific, and independent. Products seeking the certification undergo screening to ensure they avoid or restrict over 6,500 harmful substances. This screening process is part of the Ecosystem Approach, which aims to protect people and resources. In addition to ingredient list reviews, companies must provide detailed information about their manufacturing processes and ingredients.
The approach to certification involves complete transparency in manufacturing and disclosing all ingredients used in formulations. They thoroughly analyze potential sources of pollution and harmful impacts on various aspects, including soil, water, air, and living organisms. They also screen for a wide range of harmful substances such as carcinogens, endocrine disruptors, toxins, flame retardants, pesticides, solvents, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
They conduct a stringent 360-degree assessment, considering how each substance will be used and evaluating its safety. Only products that pass the entire screening process are granted the Made Safe seal.
Things to know about the Made Safe certification
What is the Downpass?
Down Pass is a certification program established to ensure the responsible sourcing and production of down and feathers used in various products. It was founded in 2011 by the Association of the European Bed Feather and Bedding Industries (Eurodow) to address concerns regarding animal welfare and traceability in the down industry.
Downpass certification prohibits the use of down from live-plucked or force-fed birds. Farms must adhere to a set of animal welfare requirements that undergo independent audits.
What products does the Downpass certify?
It covers a range of products, including bedding, clothing, and furniture that contain down or feathers. The certification guarantees that the down and feathers used in these products come from ethically and sustainably sourced suppliers, ensuring that no live-plucking or force-feeding of birds occurs.
Downpass certification is particularly relevant for products such as pillows, cushions, and upholstered furniture that incorporate down or feathers. It allows manufacturers to demonstrate their commitment to responsible sourcing and production practices, addressing growing consumer concerns about animal welfare and sustainability.
How do companies get Downpass certified?
Downpass collaborates with multiple accredited testing and auditing organizations, including four auditing organizations and three testing institutes. These organizations have a presence in Asia, Europe, and North America, allowing for both scheduled and surprise inspections to be conducted promptly. This ensures thorough monitoring and evaluation of the supply chain to uphold the standards of the Downpass certification.
Firstly, the company seeking certification submits an application to these organizations, providing detailed information about their supply chain and production practices. This includes information about the sources of down and feathers, such as farms and slaughterhouses. Once the application is received, the auditing organization conducts an initial assessment, which may include document reviews and on-site audits.
The auditors verify compliance with Downpass' strict criteria, which cover aspects such as animal welfare, traceability, and quality control. During the on-site audits, auditors inspect the facilities and processes involved in the handling and processing of down and feathers. The certification process involves comprehensive audits and inspections of the supply chain, including the farms, processing facilities, and manufacturers. They assess factors like hygiene, storage, transportation, and separation of certified and non-certified materials. If the company meets all the requirements, they are granted the Downpass certification, allowing them to use the Downpass label on their products. The certification is subject to regular audits and inspections to ensure ongoing compliance.
Things to know about the Downpass Certification
What is Certi-Pur?
The CertiPUR-US is a certification program established in 2008 to ensure the safety and environmental responsibility of polyurethane foam used in various products. It was developed by members of the foam industry in response to growing concerns about harmful chemicals and emissions associated with foam materials. The program guarantees that the foam utilized in CertiPUR-US mattresses and other furniture is free from toxic substances.
It ensures that the foam is made without ozone depleters, harmful flame retardants, heavy metals, formaldehyde, and other harmful substances. The certification also requires low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions for improved indoor air quality.
What products does the Certi-Pur certify?
CertiPUR-US certifies the foam used in mattresses, pillows, upholstered furniture, even your dog’s bed, and other related products.
How do companies get Certi-Pur certified?
The manufacturer first applies CertiPUR-US, providing detailed information about the foam product they want to certify. CertiPUR-US evaluates the foam's composition, including its raw materials and additives, to ensure compliance with the certification criteria. This assessment focuses on the absence of harmful substances. Samples of the foam product are sent to an independent laboratory for testing. After that, the foam is examined for various factors, including emissions, durability, and physical performance. Testing is conducted following specific protocols and standards. The test results are thoroughly reviewed and analyzed by CertiPUR-US experts. They assess whether the foam meets the certification requirements for emissions, content, and durability. Based on the evaluation, CertiPUR-US makes a certification decision. If the foam product meets all the criteria, it is granted the CertiPUR-US certification. Certified manufacturers are subject to regular audits and product testing to ensure ongoing compliance with the certification standards.
Things to know about the Certi-Pur certification
What is Oeko-Tex-100?
The Oeko-Tex is a globally recognized certification system for textiles and leather. It was established in 1992 and is a code for the International Association for Research and Testing in the Field of Textile Ecology (Oeko-Tex) to ensure that textile products are free from harmful substances.
Oeko-Tex® STANDARD 100 is the standard offered by Oeko-Tex®. It ensures that every component of a product, including buttons, linings, threads, trims, and zips, has been tested for harmful substances and deemed safe for human health. The testing process includes an assessment of more than 100 substances, including azo dyes, formaldehyde, heavy metals, pesticides, and PVC, among others. The list is regularly updated to reflect new scientific findings and regulations. Products are categorized into four classes, depending on their usage and contact with the skin.
What products does Oeko-Tex 100 certify?
The Oeko-Tex Standard 100 applies to various types of textile products, including raw materials, yarns, fabrics, clothing, accessories, home textiles, leather, bedding, towels, upholstery, and more.
Currently, Oeko-Tex Standard 100 product certification has attracted the participation of around 10,000 companies from over 90 countries, spanning all stages of the value-creation chain.
It classifies the products into four classes.
Class I: Textiles for Toddlers & Kids
Class II: Textiles intended for direct contact with the skin. This includes garments, underwear, bedding, and other clothing items.
Class III: Textiles that do not have direct contact with the skin. This category includes outerwear, accessories, and home textiles.
Class IV: Textiles used for decorative purposes such as curtains, upholstery, and other non-wearable textiles.
How do companies get Oeko-Tex 100 certified?
The Oeko-Tex-100 standard’s criteria cover national and international statutory requirements, including regulations on harmful substances like azo dyes, formaldehyde, and nickel. They also test chemicals not yet regulated by law and comply with REACH Directive and ECHA-SVHC Candidate List requirements
Oeko-Tex® relies on independent certification bodies to test products based on their criteria. The certification process begins with the submission of an application form by the manufacturer or brand. The application is then reviewed by the selected Oeko-Tex® institute, which defines the scope of the audit and success parameters based on the provided documents. The products undergo extensive laboratory testing according to the STANDARD 100, which covers various test parameters and considers the intended use of the textiles. If the products pass the laboratory test, the manufacturer receives the STANDARD 100 certificate along with a detailed test report from the Oeko-Tex® institute. Additionally, an Oeko-Tex® expert may visit the manufacturer's site to verify the details either before or shortly after the certification process. Certification is valid for one year, requiring annual retesting.
To ensure quality assurance, the independent auditing institutes undergo audits by Oeko-Tex® every three years. Oeko-Tex® publishes an annual report and uses an impact calculator for transparency. These checks and balances maintain an impartial standard in the market.
Things to know about the Oeko-Tex 100 certification
1. While Oeko-Tex certification is reliable for ensuring product safety and the absence of harmful substances, it is not an organic certification and allows GMO crops, synthetic pesticides, and fertilizers.
2. It also lacks standards for treating water waste and does not address worker safety or fair trade practices.
3. Oeko-Tex is owned by The Hohenstein Institute, an organization focused on synthetic textile research, so it may have a bias towards synthetic fibers, making it less reliable for natural fibers like cotton.
4. While it guarantees product safety, it falls short of a comprehensive sustainable and ethical certification, as it does not consider the entire production chain, environmental impacts, and worker conditions. It majorly focuses only on chemical safety.
No doubt these certifications make life better for consumers. Yet, that’s still quite some research to keep track of.
Which is why, we’ve already done the research for you in identifying the best authentic and green Home Decor & Furniture brands to choose from.
Safety First
As you’ve read, there are numerous certifications, each of them with their own standards and values.
The most important aspect is for products to be safe to use.
Yes, these certified and green products can be a bit more expensive than conventional products. But this is largely because they need to have different processes which are safer and more responsible towards people and the planet.
In fact, conventional products are cheaper because they have gone on to use ingredients beyond what is safe or good for use, to save on cost.
Aligning with values and choosing imperfect products
Beyond safety for yourself, is alignment of the product with your values.
Perhaps you value products which are cruelty-free and have good labor practices. Or perhaps being sustainable for the planet is on your priority.
There could be products which are cruelty-free, but perhaps their packaging is not sustainable. And as we saw, there are products which have varying percentages of organic ingredients.
One thing to keep in mind is most products are not going to be perfect in every way for people and the planet.
The important thing is, for products to be authentic about their sustainability practices, and not have misleading claims and look to manipulate customers.
Yes some brands may not be perfectly green, but likely far better than the industry standard, and are constantly improving their sustainability practices. Their intention is good.
Remember, every little choice you make can have a big impact on your baby's well-being and the world they will grow up in.
Going beyond product labels
A study suggests, if a product carries a third party label, it is the first thing 59% of consumers use for guidance, whereas 8% judge a product by a company's label.
These certifications and labels play an important role in providing transparency, accountability, and assurance to consumers.
They go beyond traditional product labels by a company and basic laws, and showcase enhanced social, environmental and ethical considerations.
Ultimately, such labels stand for increased transparency, accountability, and assurance to consumers.
However, it is important to remain critical and informed, as no certification system is perfect. There may be limitations, or areas for improvement in each.
And of course, obtaining certifications sometimes comes at a cost. It is possible for businesses to be sustainable even without having these certifications.
Influencing brands to improve accountability
Our choice of product is powerful.
As more consumers become aware of such certifications, understand them, and choose certified and sustainable products, brands will take note.
Brands will have to start adhering to certifications and enhance their disclosures and sustainability practices to win consumers.
And ultimately, there’d be more and better green brands for consumers to choose from, economies of scale would kick into the green consumer ecosystem, and green products would also become more affordable.
As we reach the end of this guide for sustainable home decor and furniture certifications, it's clear that making conscious choices can have a profound impact on our planet and well-being.
These certifications ensure that our furniture and decor items are sourced responsibly, minimize environmental impact, promote circular economy principles, prioritize worker welfare, and contribute to healthier indoor environments. By supporting brands and products that bear these certifications, we become catalysts for change, driving the shift towards a more eco-friendly and ethical industry.
So, let's choose furniture that tells a story of sustainability, textiles that embrace organic purity, and decor that sparks joy without compromising our values. Together, we can create homes that not only reflect our personal style but also homes which are safer, and play a part in preserving our planet for generations to come. Let's embark on this sustainable revolution, one certified piece at a time.
