In the heart of the living room, the sofa takes center stage in the home. A decorative highlight, a source of comfort, a place for sharing… It’s part of our daily lives, whether we’re relaxing or spending time with loved ones. But do we really know it? As soft, comfortable, or stylish as it may be, the sofa isn’t always as welcoming as it seems. Between opaque manufacturing practices, a flood of imports, and haphazard designs, our beloved sofa could be hiding quite a few secrets.
An awkward situation
Today, we know that furniture plays a role in indoor air quality. Made from synthetic materials, chemical adhesives, and other petrochemical-based substances, it emits Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that affect indoor air quality. (Learn about indoor air pollution)
While construction and decorative products are required to carry a “indoor air emissions” label to provide information on VOC emission levels, sofas are exempt from this requirement. It is therefore impossible for consumers to know their true impact on air quality.
However, the vast majority of sofas do contribute significantly to pollution in our homes. From their frames to their upholstery, including the padding and suspension systems, they contain a variety of synthetic materials: foam, polyester, faux leather, chemical dyes…
In addition to having an impact on our homes, these materials involve manufacturing processes that are harmful to the environment. In France, most sofas are imported from Asian countries. As a result, a strong correlation has emerged between the shortage of raw materials in Asia and the sofa market in France, as evidenced by rising prices and longer delivery times.
According to INSEE, spending in the sofa market fell by more than 5% between 2019 and 2020 in France. However, the post-lockdown trend seemed to show an increase in this type of purchase, as French consumers sought to redecorate or move following the lockdown—for example, the home improvement sector saw a nearly 3% increase in revenue.
From its manufacture to its transport and use, the sofa has aspects that are ultimately less welcoming than we might think. The good news is that people are becoming more aware, and healthier, more responsible solutions are springing up.
A Cozier Future
With growing concern about their environmental impact, a segment of the French population is embracing a new, more thoughtful approach to consumption. While “Made in France” products are gaining popularity, buying locally is even considered by some to be a golden rule for everyday items.
Furthermore, the composition and list of ingredients are increasingly piquing users’ curiosity. Natural, organic, and minimally processed products appeal to discerning consumers. What about the sofa? Natural materials, in addition to being healthier, offer enhanced comfort and remarkable durability. The softness of cotton, the lightness of linen, the plushness of natural latex… a skillful blend that fosters true moments of relaxation. Making a responsible choice is therefore the best way to optimize the user’s well-being while also taking care of their health and the planet.
By choosing a sofa that’s meticulously crafted from natural materials, consumers are prioritizing quality—which is synonymous with durability. It won’t need to be replaced anytime soon! This is a trend that’s becoming increasingly common in France: consuming less but better.
For its part, Kipli is committed to specific standards to offer a sofa that is as comfortable and stylish as it is healthy and sustainable: natural materials, French manufacturing, local suppliers, water-based glue, wood sourced from sustainably managed French forests… (Learn more about Kipli’s commitments).
Generally speaking, day after day, new solutions are emerging—whether in terms of the materials used, manufacturing processes, or the relocation of factories to France. Little by little, we are moving toward a more thoughtful world, where there are no more secrets and our furniture has nothing left to hide!
Discover our line of 100% natural sofas:
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