10 Best Non-Toxic Dressers | Zero-VOC & Formaldehyde Free

What is a non-toxic dresser?

Non-toxic dressers are made with materials and finishes that do not contain harmful chemicals, like formaldehyde or methanol.

These dressers are usually constructed from solid hardwoods, like maple or birch, instead of manufactured pressed woods. They also include wood finishes with low or no VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds).

VOCs are chemicals that can easily evaporate into the air, in a process known as off-gassing. When you choose a non-toxic dresser made with safer materials and finishes, there is a lower risk of these dangerous chemicals being released into your home’s air.

This means you and your family are less likely to breathe in these harmful substances, which can negatively affect your health. 

What materials should I avoid when looking for a non-toxic dresser?

• Flame Retardants

Flame retardants are added to furniture to slow the spread of fire, potentially providing valuable seconds in a fire emergency.

Toxic flame retardant chemicals can bioaccumulate in the body over time disrupting your endocrine system, impacting hormonal and metabolic function, and are linked to certain cancers with long-term exposure.

While it may not be possible to avoid flame retardants altogether in manufactured furniture due to safety restrictions, opting for non-toxic dressers made of hardwood is your safest bet since they are naturally fire resistant and require less powerful flame retardants. 

• PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances):

In some cases, PFAS may be used on dresser surfaces to make them more water resistant. PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down easily in the environment or human body and they have been linked to developmental problems in children, immune system suppression, and certain cancers. 

• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC):

Rarely, but in some cases, PVC may be used for backing panels or drawer bottoms in dressers since it’s moisture resistant. However, you’ll want to steer clear since PVC contains phthalates, which can cause hormone disruptions and it contains toxic heavy metals like lead. 

What are VOC emissions and why are they dangerous?

When we bring new furniture home, we often notice a distinct “new furniture smell.” This odor is primarily caused by VOCs. VOCs are chemical compounds that easily turn into vapors or gases. They are found in pressed woods, particle boards, furniture finishes, and adhesives. As these materials dry and cure, they release VOCs.

The presence of VOCs in our homes is concerning because they can become trapped indoors, and we may inhale them over time. Prolonged exposure to these VOCs can lead to:

• Respiratory problems: VOCs can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and cause respiratory symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing, especially if you have existing lung conditions like asthma or COPD.

• Neurological effects: Short-term exposure to VOCs can cause headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Prolonged exposure may affect the nervous system and lead to more serious neurological issues.

• Allergic reactions: VOCs can contribute to the development of allergies and chemcial sensitivities, particularly in children.

• Cancer risk: Some VOCs, like formaldehyde and benzene, are known carcinogens and can increase the risk of cancer with long-term exposure.

• Organ damage: Breathing in certain VOCs has been linked to liver and kidney damage.

When it comes to furniture, the main toxic compounds to watch out for are:

• Toluene and xylenes: Used to create smooth finishes
• Methanol: A toxic by-product of shellac
• N-hexane: Found in some oil-based finishes