Formaldehyde is a topic of increasing interest when discussing the safety and sustainability of furniture. It plays a vital role in modern manufacturing but also raises concerns about health and indoor air quality. In this blog, we’ll explore what formaldehyde is, how we are exposed to it, its adverse impacts, why it is used in the furniture industry, and the benefits of opting for solid wood furniture.
What Is Formaldehyde?
Formaldehyde is a common, colourless, and strong-smelling chemical that exists as a gas at room temperature. Composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, it is a naturally occurring substance found in the environment, in some foods, and even in our bodies.
Humans and most living organisms produce small amounts of formaldehyde as part of normal metabolic processes. For instance, the human body generates about 1.5 ounces of formaldehyde daily as part of natural metabolism. Additionally, trace amounts of formaldehyde are present in certain fruits and foods, added as a preservative in some cases, and produced during cooking and smoking processes.
Discovered in 1859, formaldehyde has become an essential ingredient in the development of numerous everyday items. It is commonly found in household products, including:
- Press-wood products (e.g., particle board, plywood, and fibreboard)
- Glues and adhesives
- Paper product coatings
How We Get Exposure to Formaldehyde?
Exposure to formaldehyde can occur through inhalation, skin absorption, or ingestion of food and drinks containing the chemical. However, our bodies are equipped with enzymes that break formaldehyde down into formate, which is further processed into carbon dioxide and expelled.
When inhaled, most formaldehyde is broken down by cells lining the mouth, nose, throat, and airways, limiting how much enters the bloodstream. This rapid breakdown helps reduce the potential for adverse health effects under normal exposure conditions.
Adverse Impacts of Formaldehyde
While formaldehyde exposure is typically well-managed by the body, prolonged or excessive exposure can pose health risks.
- Short-term effects: Exposure to high levels of formaldehyde can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat.
- Long-term effects: Prolonged exposure to levels above the 0.08 ppm threshold set by the World Health Organisation (WHO) is considered carcinogenic to humans and can lead to health issues such as leukaemia.
It is important to note that formaldehyde concentrations in typical household environments are generally well below harmful levels. As the WHO states, exposure levels that do not cause sensory irritation are unlikely to lead to significant adverse effects.
Why Does the Furniture Industry Use Formaldehyde?
Formaldehyde plays a key role in the furniture industry due to its chemical versatility. It reacts with other molecules to create strong, durable structures, making it a critical building block for manufacturing.
In the wood-based panel industry, formaldehyde-based resins are essential for creating composite wood products like particle boards and fibreboards. Few compounds can replicate formaldehyde’s ability to produce high-quality resins that reliably bond these materials.
Formaldehyde Content in Composite Woods
Composite woods differ in their formaldehyde emissions. From highest to lowest, emissions are ranked as follows:
- High-density fibreboard (HDF)
- Medium-density fibreboard (MDF)
- Particle board
- Plywood
Emissions are classified by standards such as:
- E1: Emits no more than 0.1 ppm
- E2: Emits a maximum of 1.0 ppm
- E3: Emits no more than 1.4 ppm
Even E1-rated materials emit slightly above the WHO threshold of 0.08 ppm. To minimise exposure, homeowners are advised to air out rooms with new composite wood furniture for at least a month before moving in.
Solid Wood Furniture for Better Peace of Mind
For those concerned about formaldehyde exposure, solid wood furniture is an excellent choice. Here’s why:
- Reduced emissions: Solid wood uses less or no glue, significantly lowering the likelihood of formaldehyde emissions above the WHO-recommended threshold.
- Durability: Solid wood furniture is more durable and can be used immediately without concerns over off-gassing.
Opting for solid wood ensures a safer, more natural living environment, offering peace of mind without compromising on quality or style.
Conclusion
Formaldehyde is a versatile chemical essential to many aspects of modern manufacturing, including furniture production. While normal exposure levels are generally safe, prolonged exposure to higher concentrations can pose health risks. For those looking to minimise exposure, solid wood furniture provides a reliable, low-emission alternative. Whether you’re furnishing a new home or upgrading your current space, understanding the role of formaldehyde in furniture helps you make informed decisions for a healthier living environment.
Published: 10th Feb 2025