How to Pick a Sustainable Couch

Have you heard of fast furniture? It's like fast fashion but for your home. This type of furniture is typically very affordable and often made from cheaper materials. While convenient, its low quality and low replacement cost mean it often ends up in the trash at the first sign of damage or when you need to move.

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This trend has also affected couches. Many companies now offer incredibly cheap couches that seem too good to be true. These budget-friendly couches are tempting, but they're made from lower-quality materials and quickly show wear and tear.

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Here's how to ensure your couches are not only comfortable but sustainable as well:

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Durability and Design

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Durability is crucial when considering sustainable couches. Seek out well-crafted pieces made with high-quality materials that will last for years, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Consider brands like Burrow and Inside Weather, which offer modular, customizable options. These allow you to tailor everything from cushion firmness to fabric color, ensuring you get a couch that perfectly suits your needs. This personalization increases the likelihood that you'll keep the couch longer, a sustainable practice in itself.

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Easy to Repair

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What if a leg of your couch breaks or an armrest comes loose? Ideally, you'd want to replace just that part since the rest of the couch is perfectly fine. Look for brands such as Sabai that offer replacement components for their couches, allowing you to repair damage without replacing the entire piece. This approach keeps couches in use longer and out of landfills.

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Sustainable Materials

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Many conventional couches contain harmful chemicals like flame retardants and formaldehyde, which can negatively impact your health over time. Opt for brands that avoid these harmful substances and have third-party certifications to back their health and sustainability claims. When choosing fabric, consider materials such as recycled polyester or hemp, which have a lower environmental footprint than traditional options like leather and virgin polyester. This approach ensures you're getting a couch that's not only better for the environment but also safer for you and your family.

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Read also: 6 Ways to Responsibly Get Rid of Your Dorm Furniture

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Transparent Manufacturing Processes

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A couch's sustainability heavily depends on its manufacturing process. Look for brands that are transparent about their production methods and factories, prioritizing sustainable practices like using renewable energy and local production. For instance, Sabai crafts its made-to-order couches in ethically run U.S. factories and uses recycled packaging for its products.

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Certificates

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When shopping for sustainable couches, look for certifications that validate a brand's claims. Choose frames made from FSC-certified wood, steering clear of plywood or pressed wood. For cushions, opt for natural fillers such as GOLS-certified organic latex, responsibly sourced wool, or CertiPUR-US-certified foam. Select upholstery fabrics like GOTS-certified organic cotton. Brands with certifications such as B Corp, Climate Neutral, or 1% for the Planet demonstrate a stronger commitment to sustainability.

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Secondhand Options

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Buying a secondhand couch is a sustainable choice that keeps furniture out of landfills. Kaiyo, an online marketplace for pre-loved pieces, simplifies this process. They handle everything from sourcing the perfect couch to cleaning and delivery, addressing common concerns about used furniture. You can save up to 90% on high-quality brands while reducing waste. With hundreds of listings and detailed filters, you can find exactly what you want without compromising on style or quality.

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