Purchase Furniture that Doesn't Release Formaldehyde

Unfortunately, the plywood, pressed wood, particle board and medium density fiberboard, which are used in most furniture today, are generally treated with formaldehyde, a suspected carcinogen, and can emit fumes for as long as five years.

1. To avoid this exposure, it's best to purchase furniture made of whole wood, glass, metal or chrome.
2. Avoid new furniture coated with polyurethane--a respiratory toxin.
3. Furniture over five years old that hasn't been refinished or reupholstered usually does not continue to off gas.