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Buying second-hand, thrift, antique, and otherwise used furniture is a great way to go green in your home. By picking up something that's new to you, but doesn't require any more new materials to be used, is one of the best ways to green your home's interior (and, perhaps with the exception of some antiques, it's a lot cheaper, too!). But, while you can't always tell where it's been, we recommend you follow these tips to help determine the durability and health of your potential new piece.
Look for solid wood. Furniture made from solid woods, and not plywood or fiberboard, is likely to be very sturdy and durable, and much less likely to be hiding formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds often used in the glues that hold the particle-based wood products together. And, with solid wood, a green guarantee is only one refinishing job away; check out our tips on restoring furniture for more info on that.
Have an eye for durability. Along the same lines as above, give your new dining table a shake, or have a seat (or two) in that high-backed chair; if it creaks, groans, shimmies or wobbles, it may not be long for this world (and it doesn't do anyone any good to get new furniture home and then have to replace it two weeks later). Check the joinery; if it's glued, nailed, or screwed with solid connections that don't budge under a little stress, it's more likely to serve you well for years (instead of days) to come.
Be wary of old cushions and upholstery. The majority of our furniture's cushions are made with formaldehyde foam -- yep, there's the "f" word again -- which is not a good thing for your indoor air quality. While some good alternatives are becoming more available, older and antique furniture is almost certain to use the foam, and we recommend staying away from it. If you fall in love with a chair or sofa that has foam cushions, consider reupholstering your new find, or having a service do it for you.
The same goes for upholstery, and aging fabrics are more likely to harbor dust mites, molds, mildews, and other allergens, so replacing it with some fabulous Mod Green Pod or Q Collection textiles will insure that your new furniture is clean and green.
Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
More furniture-related reading in Planet Green and TreeHugger
Get the Scoop on Green Wood Furniture
Learn How to Find Eco-Friendly Wood Furniture
How to Go Green: Your Furniture
Find, Design Your Own Refurbished Furniture
Restore Thrift Store, Second-Hand Furniture
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