In an era where environmental concerns are at the forefront of global discussions, sustainable living has become more than just a trend; it’s a way of life. This ethos is also being extended to many other industries, and the interior industry is no exception. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 best sustainable furniture brands that are not only creating beautifully designed pieces but also reimagining their practices to align with eco-friendly principles.
How To Choose The Best Sustainable Furniture Brands
Choosing the best sustainable furniture brands goes beyond just making your home look good. It’s about supporting fair work practices and eco-friendly materials. Sustainable furniture helps you lower your environmental impact while also backing ethical labor and green materials. To help you pick the right sustainable furniture brands, here are some important factors to consider.
- Materials Matter:
Sustainable furniture starts with the materials you choose. Look for eco-friendly options like cork and bamboo, which are renewable and have natural regrowth. Reclaimed hardwoods are also a good choice for the environment. Avoid plywood and particle wood because they are less durable and may contain harmful adhesives.
When picking upholstery materials, opt for natural fabrics like organic cotton, linen, or hemp. Also, prefer foam cushions made from natural latex over soy foam to help prevent deforestation.
- Certifications Count:
Certifications like Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), GREENGUARD, and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) ensure the eco-friendliness of your furniture. These labels signify responsible sourcing and low-VOC materials, ensuring a healthier home environment.
- Ethical Supply Chains:
Affordable sustainable furniture is great, but not at the expense of laborers. Seek brands that prioritize fair labor practices and consider third-party certifications like Fair Trade and B Corporation. Furniture made in small, USA-based workshops often adheres to higher labor standards.
- Green Practices:
Efficiency and functionality are key. Look for modular furniture that can be easily disassembled, reducing waste during moves. Handcrafted, custom-made pieces typically have a lower environmental impact compared to mass-produced items.
Companies committed to renewable energy, carbon offset programs, and low-waste packaging further exemplify their dedication to sustainability.
- Community and Charity:
Support brands that give back to artisan communities or contribute to social and environmental causes. Ethical furniture companies that go beyond profit and engage in charitable endeavors are worth your investment.
Top 10 Best Sustainable Furniture Brands
Now that you understand what factors to keep in mind when picking eco-friendly furniture, let’s take a look at the 10 best sustainable furniture brands known for their eco-conscious practices and creative designs:
Maiden Home
Maiden Home is one of the leading sustainable furniture companies that seamlessly merge craftsmanship with ecological responsibility. Catering to various living spaces, from bedrooms to dining rooms, Maiden Home offers a diverse range of designs crafted from eco-friendly materials.
Their commitment to sustainability lies in their use of certified sustainable hardwoods, such as solid oak, which bear forestry certifications from the Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI). Even steel components in their furniture are recycled, adding to their eco-conscious approach.
Maiden Home provides a range of upholstery materials, including performance linen, cotton and linen blends, Mohair from Angora goats, Merino wool, and leather. To ensure ethical standards, the brand is transparent about their animal-derived fabrics, emphasizing ethical sourcing of leather and wool. For those who prefer alternatives to down-filled cushions, a down-alternative option made from microdenier, an ultra-fine synthetic fiber, is available upon request.
Maiden Home’s dedication to sustainability transcends material choices and extends to the manufacturing process itself. Collaborating with partners who share their eco-friendly vision, the brand employs cutting-edge techniques such as CNC routing (computer-controlled machines) to minimize wood waste. This not only reduces environmental impact but also ensures that every piece is a testament to fine craftsmanship.
Avocado
Avocado is not merely a furniture brand; it’s a lifestyle choice rooted in sustainable values. With a tagline of “farm to mattress,” Avocado offers an impressive range of products, from mattresses to bedding and furniture, and all pieces are designed with the environment in mind.
Avocado’s commitment to natural and organic materials is taken very seriously. The mattresses are built upon a foundation of 100% GOLS organic, eco-INSTITUT®, and OEKO-TEX-certified Dunlop latex, a material they produce themselves.
The brand also prides itself on staying away from the use of polyurethane foam, chemical flame retardants, and other harmful ingredients commonly found in conventional mattresses. This dedication to purity has earned Avocado certifications such as GREENGUARD Gold, MADE SAFE, and OEKO-TEX.
Beyond mattresses, Avocado extends its eco-friendly ethos to its furniture line. The brand’s wood furniture is crafted from either reclaimed wood or FSC certified. The wood is also sealed with a zero-VOC sealant to minimize the emission of harmful chemicals. The combination of reclaimed materials and stringent production practices showcases Avocado’s seriousness in creating furniture pieces that are as environmentally friendly as they are stylish.
The brand’s philanthropic endeavors further underscore its commitment to making a positive impact. Avocado is a member of 1% for the Planet, a movement where companies pledge to donate a portion of their revenue to environmental causes. Avocado also donates both returned products and 2% of its revenue to charities such as EcoHealth Alliance and Breast Cancer Prevention Partners. Avocado’s environmental and social responsibility is a key factor in making it one of the best sustainable furniture brands on the market.
Inside Weather
Inside Weather‘s core philosophy revolves around the belief that furniture should be personal and accessible, all while treading lightly on the environment. Unlike traditional furniture retailers that mass-produce items, Inside Weather follows a zero-inventory model. What does this mean for consumers? It translates to furniture that is made only when customers place an order.
By manufacturing on-demand, Inside Weather avoids overproduction and reduces the environmental impact associated with excess inventory. This zero-inventory model also eliminates the need for middlemen and excessive markups, making sustainable furniture more affordable and accessible to a wider audience.
One of the most significant environmental challenges in the furniture industry is the excessive use of materials. Inside Weather tackles this issue creatively by repurposing plastic bottles into couches and utilizing FSC certified birchwood for crafting exquisite credenzas. Not only does this help reduce waste, but it also promotes a circular economy by giving new life to materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
Another impressive sustainability effort by Inside Weather is their collaboration with the National Forest Foundation. For every order placed, the company takes the initiative to plant a tree in partnership with the foundation. This not only helps in offsetting the carbon footprint associated with furniture production but also contributes to reforestation efforts, making each purchase an investment in a greener future.
West Elm
Within the vast landscape of furniture companies, one major player has taken substantial strides towards a more sustainable future – West Elm. This brand stands as a testament to the fact that even established companies can pivot their practices towards a more environmentally conscious direction.
The heart of West Elm’s sustainability initiative lies in their sustainable furniture line, which now constitutes a remarkable 60% of their product offerings. Each piece of furniture within this collection is designed to uphold at least one sustainability initiative, which includes certifications such as Organic, Sustainably Sourced, Fair Trade certified™, Handcrafted, and GREENGUARD Gold certified.
Besides, 52% of West Elm’s wooden furniture, including beds, desks, side tables, shelving units, and drawers, are crafted from Sustainably-Sourced, FSC certified wood. For upholstery, bedding, and rugs, West Elm employs materials such as 100% organic cotton, TENCEL™, and REPREVE® recycled polyester. This not only ensures a luxurious feel but also translates into real-world impact by diverting a remarkable 14 million plastic bottles from landfills.
As the brand progresses, it continues to expand its community-driven sustainability practices. The brand partners with several non-profit organizations, including SickKids, No Kid Hungry, and The Trevor Project, among others. Through these partnerships, West Elm has contributed over $50 million to various causes, further cementing its role as one of the best sustainable furniture brands.
The Citizenry
The Citizenry is one of the best eco furniture brands that connect people, cultures, and stories through handcrafted creations. What sets The Citizenry apart is its unique design and production. Collaborating with artisans from all corners of the world, from the rugged terrains of Mexico to the vibrant streets of Mali, the brand curates a collection of exquisite handcrafted pieces.
The Citizenry’s priority is the quality and sustainability of its products. Each piece is meticulously crafted in limited quantities, ensuring that attention to detail is never compromised. From a bathroom sauna set crafted from locally sourced hinoki wood to a butterfly chair woven from rattan vine, every creation boasts a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design.
However, it’s not just about the products. The Citizenry takes its responsibility towards the artisans seriously. By creating a fair and safe working environment for its craftsmen, the brand ensures that the process is as ethical as the outcome. The brand also reinvests 10 percent of their proceeds into the very communities that inspire their designs. Through entrepreneur development grants, The Citizenry empowers artisans to grow and thrive, creating a sustainable cycle of positive impact.
Parachute
Based in Venice, California, Parachute is a brand that believes in providing soft and luxurious essentials for home decor. They offer a wide range of products, including bedding, robes, loungewear, and towels. However, their sustainability efforts extend beyond these traditional offerings. Parachute also specializes in crafting cozy, sustainable furniture designed for living rooms and bedrooms.
What makes Parachute one of the best sustainable furniture brands is their dedication to creating modern and elegant furniture that not only looks great but is also built to last. From beds and nightstands to sofas and coffee tables, each piece is made to order in the USA. This not only supports local craftsmanship but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
A noteworthy aspect of Parachute’s furniture collection is its focus on using toxin-free materials. The brand incorporates CertiPUR-US certified foam, ensuring that the furniture is free from harmful chemicals. Additionally, Parachute offers Fair Trade Certified options, demonstrating their commitment to ethical and responsible sourcing.
With Parachute, consumers can elevate their homes while remaining eco-conscious. By investing in their sustainable furniture, individuals are not only making a style statement but also contributing to a more sustainable planet.
Etsy Sustainable Furniture
Etsy has also been making a significant impact as one of the best sustainable furniture brands. The platform is a treasure trove of innovative upcycled furniture pieces, crafted by individual makers who think beyond traditional materials.
Etsy Reclaimed Furniture prides itself on the ingenious use of upcycled materials, giving a second life to items that would otherwise end up in landfills. Among the most common upcycled sustainable materials for furniture on Etsy, wood takes center stage. Reclaimed lumber, antique barn wood, fallen logs, and discarded pallets find new purpose in the hands of skilled artisans. These materials, once forgotten, are transformed into stunning coffee tables and chairs, as well as bed frames that exude rustic charm and character.
Metal also plays a pivotal role in the world of upcycled furniture. Upcycled iron, copper, and industrial iron piping are repurposed to create artistic and functional pieces that contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. Who would have thought that chicken wire could find its way into elegant light fixtures and room dividers?
Etsy’s emphasis on craftsmanship and personalization is another factor that makes the brand stand out. Many items are handmade-to-order, ensuring that each piece receives undivided attention and care while significantly reducing waste.
Last but not least, Etsy is committed to reducing its carbon footprint as well. Etsy is powered by 100% renewable energy, a step towards ensuring that the platform’s operations are as eco-friendly as the products it hosts. Additionally, Etsy offsets 100% of carbon emissions from sellers’ shipping, further solidifying its commitment to a greener future.
Made Trade
Made Trade takes the guesswork out of shopping for sustainable furniture by curating a collection of ethical, eco furniture brands. By offering various filters such as BIPOC Owned, Women Owned, Fair Trade, as well as Recycled and Upcycled, the platform empowers consumers to align their furniture choices with their values. This thoughtful approach helps shoppers make informed decisions that resonate with their personal beliefs.
Made Trade uses a wide array of sustainable materials in its curated range. From the woven bamboo cane furniture by Mbare to Emeco’s recycled aluminum chairs, the collection boasts a diverse selection of materials—natural, recycled materials, or both. Loll Designs, for instance, repurposes plastic milk jugs, diverting hundreds of millions from landfills. Notably, their products are not only durable but also designed to be recycled at the end of their life cycle, as evidenced by their Cradle to Cradle certification.
In addition to materials, Made Trade is equally dedicated to responsible sourcing and transparency. The brand places a high priority on fair and equitable working practices. Artisans and makers associated with Made Trade are assured of fair wages, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to ethical production. Each ethical furniture store featured on the platform provides detailed insights into their practices, offering transparency that empowers consumers to support brands that align with their values.
Medley
Medley stands at the forefront of a sustainability overhaul within the furniture industry. With a core commitment to timelessness and durability, they offer an extensive range of furniture that caters to every room in the house. From sectionals and accent chairs to sleeper sofas and beds, Medley’s offerings are as comprehensive as they are sustainable.
For Medley, sustainability means using domestically-sourced and FSC certified wood. This includes premium materials like kiln-dried alder, solid walnut and maple, as well as low VOC plywood. This meticulous selection ensures that their furniture is not only long-lasting but also environmentally friendly.
Nevertheless, things don’t stop at material sourcing. Medley’s dedication extends to the finishing touches. The wood used in their furniture is lovingly treated with USDA organic natural furniture polish, a blend of beeswax, carnauba wax, and olive oil. Besides, Medley’s lineup also includes materials like OEKO-TEX cruelty-free Eco Wool, GOTS-certified organic cotton, and recycled or Greenguard Gold-certified synthetic materials. This contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the furniture and at the same time matches their eco-friendly character.
To clearly demonstrate environmental stewardship, Medley pledges to plant more trees through their partnership with the National Forest Foundation. This commitment to reforestation underscores their holistic approach to sustainability.
Masaya & Co.
For those who seek minimalist and multi-functional furniture pieces that blend sustainability with style, Masaya & Co. is an exemplary choice. This brand has carved a niche for itself by producing eco-friendly living room furniture that goes beyond aesthetics.
Masaya & Co.’s product range encompasses a variety of eco-friendly furniture including accent chairs, armchairs, couches, loveseats, rocking chairs, and sectionals. Masaya & Co. utilizes a diverse array of responsibly-harvested solid hardwood for their products. These woods include Teak, Royal Mahogany, and Rosita Walnut, all finished with low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) natural oil. In this way, Masaya & Co not only ensures the durability and longevity of the furniture but also minimizes the release of harmful chemicals into the environment.
What’s equally impressive about Masaya & Co. is its origin story. The brand’s roots trace back to a reforestation project, which eventually blossomed into a furniture company thanks to the exceptional talents of local artisans. The transformation highlights the potential for sustainable initiatives to evolve into impactful businesses that drive positive change.
By choosing to produce their pieces in Nicaragua, Masaya & Co. contributes to the livelihoods of around 150 craftspeople and designers. This decision not only empowers local communities but also reflects the brand’s determination to ethical production practices.
Also, Masaya & Co.’s commitment to reforestation is something we appreciate. With every product sold, the brand plants 100 trees in Nicaragua. This initiative, which has already resulted in the planting of millions of trees, demonstrates the brand’s tangible efforts to restore and preserve the environment. Beyond crafting beautiful furniture, Masaya & Co. is sowing the seeds for a greener, more sustainable future.
Final Thoughts on The Best Sustainable Furniture Brands
The 10 best sustainable furniture brands featured in this article are a testament to the fact that style, comfort, and eco-friendliness can coexist in our homes. Together, these brands are redefining eco-friendly living, reminding us that every purchase can be a vote for a better world.
By supporting these brands, consumers can not only equip their homes with the best pieces of furniture but also contribute to a greener future for the planet. So, whatever your furniture needs are, consider exploring these brands to take a step towards a more sustainable future. Make sure to check out ongoing furniture sales to get the best furniture deals and discounts from these brands.
