Norwalk Furniture: Creating Healthier Homes with Chemical-Free Products

NORWALK, OH, April 16, 2014 (Press-News.org) As of June 1, Norwalk Furniture upholstery will be free of toxic flame-retardant chemicals and carry the CertiPUR-US seal guaranteeing that foams are free of harmful additives.

"We are always looking for ways to make homes more beautiful, comfortable and healthier. That's why we are at the forefront in offering upholstered furniture that is free of toxic chemicals," says Mike Kenney, president of Norwalk Custom Order Furniture. "Because our products are made in the USA with a focus on using American suppliers and local artisans, consumers can be confident that all Norwalk products use only the best construction methods and materials available. We know our suppliers and how materials are produced."

Norwalk's use of foams that are free of the toxic flame-retardant chemicals comes seven months prior to the compliance required in the state of California under the new law TB 117-2013. The requirement takes effect January 1, 2015. Norwalk upholstery also meets the new California flame smolder test, which will result in improved fire safety without toxic chemicals.

A study published last year by Duke University and the University of California-Berkeley in Environmental Science & Technology found that 85 percent of tested products, including furniture, contain chemical flame retardants, which are toxic or lack adequate testing. The study links these chemicals to hormone disruption, neurological and reproductive issues, and cancer in animals and humans. It also said that of the furniture tested, flame retardant chemicals were found in 94 percent of upholstery purchased after 2005.

As a result of the law, passed in October 2013, upholstered chairs, sofas and other household products sold in California are required to bear a permanently attached uniform law label on packaging and in retail store displays to warn individuals prior to exposure to harmful chemicals.

"At Norwalk, we take great pride in each product we manufacture, so our customers can have great design and healthier homes," says Kenney. "Because we are a domestic manufacturer, we can work closely with all of our suppliers to make important changes like this quickly."

What you can do now

Researchers believe the chemicals are carried in dust. Consumers are advised to take the following actions with the upholstery in homes.

• Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter or dust frequently with a damp cloth.

• Wash your hands before eating, and especially be certain to wash the hands of children.

• Discard exposed, ripped or misshapen foam in your furniture.

• Replace discarded foam with foam certified to be free of flame retardant chemicals.

• When purchasing new furniture, look for flexible polyurethane foam that bears the CertiPUR-US seal or choose upholstery with down, wool stuffing or polyester fiberfill.

Norwalk Furniture offers something other companies don't, but that consumers and interior designers want: great design, customizable options, high quality, competitive pricing and quick delivery. Upholstered products are certified by CertiPUR-US to be free of toxic flame retardant chemicals. With more than 800 fabrics and 125 leathers for dozens of sofas, chairs, ottomans and benches, special programs include Variations, offering five basic styles and dozens of design options; The Best of Norwalk, featuring longtime best-selling designs; and UrbanStudio, scaled, styled and constructed for the price conscious consumer. The privately-held Norwalk, Ohio company manufactures upholstered seating in its 440,000 sq. ft. facility, delivered consistently within 35 days. For more information, visit http://www.norwalkfurniture.com.