How to choose environmentally friendly furniture to see if the content of formaldehyde is standard

When choosing eco-friendly furniture, there are two main factors to consider:

The first is the board itself, as the environmental quality of the furniture largely depends on the board. High-quality boards have very low formaldehyde emissions. This is crucial because even small amounts of formaldehyde can affect indoor air quality over time.

As mentioned before, E2 is suitable for local use, E1 is more stringent and commonly used in Europe, and E0 is the most environmentally friendly option available globally. Choosing E1 or higher ensures a safer and healthier living environment, especially for families with children or sensitive individuals.

The second factor is the veneer or surface finish. High-quality manufacturers use finishes that are more durable, resistant to scratches, and long-lasting. Poor-quality finishes tend to wear off quickly, often fading within 3-6 months and causing discoloration or yellowing over time.

Things to watch out for when buying eco-friendly panel furniture

First, pay attention to the color and appearance of the board. While it’s good to choose a color you like, it’s also important to examine the production process closely. Check the edge sealing, the structural design, and the hardware used. The durability of the hardware is key—imported hardware typically lasts around 100,000 cycles, which equates to about 20 years of regular use.

Second, use your senses. Eco-friendly furniture should not emit strong odors or cause irritation to the eyes, nose, or throat. Formaldehyde is the main concern here. Lower formaldehyde levels are better, but the furniture must still be strong and sturdy. It’s recommended to check what the manufacturer states about formaldehyde content and, if unsure, have the product tested by an independent authority. Also, checking the cross-section of the board can help—surface appearance doesn’t always reflect the internal quality. Truly eco-friendly boards are made from fresh wood, so cutting into them should reveal a white, natural core with larger particles.

Pro tips for buying panel furniture

1. Distinguishing between paper veneer and real wood veneer can be tricky. A quick way is to look at the pattern—real wood has natural variations, knots, and grain changes, while paper veneer tends to look too uniform.

2. The edges of panel furniture are crucial. Check the edge-sealing material and make sure the edge banding is smooth and not lifting. Ideally, all six sides should be sealed, even if the adhesive is formaldehyde-free. Sealing the edges helps prevent volatile compounds from escaping during use.

3. Examine the structure of the furniture. Look at the gaps between doors and drawers—if they’re too wide, it may indicate poor craftsmanship, leading to warping or deformation over time. Also, check whether the furniture uses a single box or double box construction. Double-box construction adds strength and stability, making the furniture more durable and visually appealing.

4. The paint quality is another important aspect. Look for any streaks, uneven pigment application, cracks, or bubbles. These issues can affect both the aesthetics and longevity of the furniture.

5. Inspect the hinge grooves and drilling areas. These parts expose the internal structure, allowing you to see if the furniture is made from medium density fiberboard (MDF) or particleboard. This can give you a better idea of its quality and durability.

6. Hardware plays a big role in panel furniture, especially since many designs are modular and easy to assemble. High-quality connectors ensure the furniture remains stable and functional over time. Imported hardware is often more reliable, though it may come at a higher cost.

How can you tell if a door or partition is made of solid wood? One way is to look at the grain and knots. If the front and back of the door match in terms of pattern and knots, it's likely solid wood. Another method is to locate a knot on one side and check if it matches the other side. This kind of detail helps identify genuine solid wood products.