Question from Bryan
I have very severe eczema and sensitivity to all things. I’ve noticed that i tend to break out badly whenever i touch a couch with my bare skin. Same goes for carpet, rugs and stretchy fabric.
I’ve heard that this is because of synthetic fabrics.
How on Earth can I find furniture with all natural fabrics? I’ve searched your site but couldn’t find anything regarding furniture.
Lisa’s Answer
There are more and more companies offering couches made with natural fabrics. Here are some on Debra’s List. I’m not sure what you are sensitive to, but I would also look out for treatments on the fabrics/rugs as well as chemicals inside your couch. For example, a couch with a cotton fabric can be treated with stain resistant chemicals and is likely filled with polyurethane foam that can contain fire retardants, formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene.
The best option is to get a custom-made couch that uses only natural materials but this can be costly. I recommend working with your doctor to find out what you are sensitive to so that you can avoid those specific irritants.
