Natural materials and finishes: the importance of formaldehyde-free oils and waxes

Choose health and sustainability: natural finishes for your furniture

The home is where we spend most of our lives and it should always be a safe haven. However, the presence of formaldehyde in furniture puts human health at risk, as this substance is classified as a carcinogen.

In this article, we will explore how choosing natural materials and finishes, such as formaldehyde-free oils and waxes, can transform our home into an environment that is not only healthier and safer, but also aesthetically pleasing and in harmony with the surrounding ecosystem.
 

Formaldehyde: what it is and its health effects

Formaldehyde is an organic compound known for its pungent odor; it is found in many homes due to urea-formaldehyde resins used in insulation and furniture materials. Its presence can be attributed to a variety of sources, including tobacco smoke, resins used in particle board and plywood, upholstery, carpeting, draperies and other textiles that have been treated to prevent wrinkles and furniture materials.

The adverse effects of formaldehyde exposure are well documented. In fact, it can cause a variety of health problems, including eye, nose and throat irritation, persistent coughing, chronic fatigue and skin irritation.

Concerns about the harmful effects of formaldehyde date back several decades. As early as 1983, the Italian Ministry of Health issued the circular “Uses of Formaldehyde – Risks Related to Possible Methods of Use” (No. 57 of June 22, 1983). In this document, a maximum exposure limit of 0.1 ppm (124 μg/m3) in residential and living environments was established on an experimental and provisional basis. This guideline was later confirmed by a decree dated October 10, 2008.

Formaldehyde has now been classified as a definite carcinogen, further raising concerns about its presence in our homes. This fact has also prompted a review of furniture refinishing practices and furnishings materials.
 

The benefits of choosing natural and formaldehyde-free finishes

Choosing natural, formaldehyde-free finishes for furniture offers a number of benefits that go far beyond mere aesthetics. Made from materials such as natural waxes and oils, these finishes not only promote human health, but also significantly improve the furniture itself:

1. Maintaining a natural and authentic appearance: natural finishes tend to have a warm and natural appearance that brings out the beauty of the wood’s details. Unlike matte paints or synthetic finishes that cover and hide the wood, natural finishes tend to leave the texture and grain of the wood visible. They can also enhance the depth and luster of the surface, helping to create a more inviting and attractive appearance.
2. Authentic tactility: unlike more plastic finishes or synthetic paints, natural finishes tend to be more pleasant to the touch, offering a sense of authenticity, warmth and durability to the touch, which contributes to the attractiveness of wood furniture treated with these finishes.
3. Durability and repairability: although natural finishes may require periodic maintenance, they can help improve the durability of wood over time. For example, oil and wax finishes can protect wood from minor scratches and surface damage. In addition, a scratch on a piece of furniture can often be removed by a simple process of sanding with sandpaper and applying a new coat of wax or oil. This step is essential to remove scratches and scuffs from tables and chairs.
4. Environmental sustainability: unlike synthetic finishes, natural waxes and oils are derived from renewable sources and are fully biodegradable. Using them reflects a true commitment to conserving natural resources and protecting the environment.

 

Riva 1920’s sustainable design

Riva 1920 has fully embraced the philosophy of natural finishes and sustainable design. Our decision to use only vegetable oils and waxes to finish our furniture is a tangible commitment to sustainability and the health of our customers. Not only do we ensure that we produce high quality wood furniture, but we have made eco-design and sustainability our manufacturing philosophy. Riva 1920 not only chooses to work with reclaimed woods to produce eco-friendly and durable furniture, but also subjects each element to detailed quality and functional testing.

Explore our collections of wood furniture with natural finishes and incorporate sustainability into your lifestyle and home. Contact us to learn more!