Do couch cushions contain flame retardants that affect your health?

Most conventional sofa cushions are made from polyurethane foam treated with chemical flame retardants to meet furniture flammability standards. Common flame retardant chemicals found in couch cushions include chlorinated tris, TDCIPP, and organophosphate compounds. These chemicals do not stay locked in the foam. They migrate out through the fabric covering, accumulate in household dust, and are inhaled or ingested by everyone in the home.

Studies have consistently found flame retardant chemicals in dust from living rooms at levels associated with health effects. These compounds have been linked to endocrine disruption, reduced fertility, thyroid dysfunction, and neurodevelopmental effects in children. Children who play on or near sofas and spend time on the floor face particularly high exposure through dust ingestion.

Since 2014, updated flammability standards (like California's TB 117-2013) no longer require chemical flame retardants in furniture. When buying new furniture, look for labels stating that no flame retardant chemicals have been added. For existing furniture, using tightly woven natural-fiber slipcovers can create a barrier between the foam and your living space. ONDU's philosophy of reducing chemical exposure extends beyond clothing to all textiles that affect your daily health.