
Photo by Mark Lund
A new bill designed to reduce the levels of formaldehyde in furniture could save you from toxic emissions -- but also put a dent in your wallet. It's a simple equation: If the bill passes, furniture manufacturers will have to find a different way to glue their parts together, which will almost inevitably up the price.
Formaldehyde, which is actually classified as a carcinogen (yikes) is found in everything from furniture glue (read: yup, like the kind holding your headboard together) to certain types of cosmetics. When it reaches room temperature, it turns into gas -- meaning your new kitchen chairs or coffee table could actually be making you sick. The problem for manufacturers, of course, is that using alternative adhesives or low-formaldehyde glues costs moolah...which ends up on your receipt.
So
what do you think -- would you rather pay more for "healthier" furniture, or are you fine dishing out less cash for pieces with potentially hazardous toxins?