YiXiang Furniture

In the design of senior-friendly furniture, material choice directly impacts not only comfort but also the health, safety, and quality of life of elderly users. As people age, their immune systems weaken, skin becomes more delicate, and respiratory sensitivity increases, making material safety a critical consideration.

1.Non-Toxic Materials: Eliminating Formaldehyde and VOC Emissions
Older adults spend significantly more time indoors and in contact with furniture compared to other age groups. If furniture contains formaldehyde-based boards or coatings with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), it may cause symptoms such as dizziness, allergies, and chronic respiratory problems.

Senior furniture should prioritize materials that meet international environmental standards—such as E0-grade boards, formaldehyde-free adhesives, and water-based paints—to ensure no harmful gases are emitted during everyday use, creating a safe and healthy indoor environment.

2.Eco-Friendly Materials: Focusing on Sustainability and Natural Origins
Eco-friendliness is not only an ecological responsibility but also means materials tend to be more natural and less irritating. Common environmentally friendly materials in senior furniture include:

Solid wood (naturally treated) such as oak or beech, valued for durability and natural grain;

Natural fabrics like cotton, linen, or bamboo fibers that are breathable and gentle on the skin;

Water-based eco-friendly coatings, which are safer and odorless compared to traditional paints, reducing chemical residues.

These materials combine aesthetic appeal with reduced allergy risks and have become the mainstream choice for modern senior furniture.

3.Hypoallergenic Properties: Protecting Sensitive Skin
Many elderly individuals suffer from contact dermatitis, asthma, or eye/nose irritation triggered by chemical substances or synthetic fibers. Therefore, hypoallergenic materials are essential.

Priority should be given to:

Fabrics free from chemical dyes and preservatives;

Upholstery treated with antibacterial and anti-mite finishes to minimize skin itching and respiratory discomfort;

Food-grade or medical-grade plastics (e.g., TPU coatings used in cushions) in high-contact areas.

4.Conclusion: Material Choice is the First Line of Defense for Safety and Comfort
Truly senior-friendly furniture controls material safety from the very start. Non-toxic is the baseline; eco-friendliness is the responsibility; hypoallergenic is genuine respect for user health. When selecting materials, factors beyond appearance and cost—such as long-term health impacts—must take priority. This reflects not only product quality but also a brand’s deep care for its elderly users.