Question from Pam
Who creates a non-toxic kitchen environment? IKEA??
Lisa’s Answer
Are you referring to cabinets or all of the items you would find in a kitchen? IKEA has a chemical policy that limits the use of harmful chemicals in their products but it does not eliminate all chemicals nor does it fully disclose all of the chemicals in each item. Generally speaking, their products are likely less toxic than items found at traditional retailers but it possible to find products like cabinets that are non-toxic. Check out Debra’s List for some ideas. There are many options but it would depend on your price range and whether you want low chemical emissions or no chemical emissions.
Lisa, I agree wholeheartedly. It depends on the level of how chemical free each individual desires. Personally I have a serious stage of MCS, and these IKEA products would not work for me at all. If my budget permitted I’d shop for completely toxic free items. I live with less because its pertinent to my recovery. When we purchased this home, we ripped out carpet, bathroom vanities, anything that had mdf. While going over budget, the kitchen cabinets got overlooked. 🙁 The next thing I’d like to do is remove these potentially toxic cabinets which I originally thought were solid wood! They are at least (6) years old. They are some plastic material according to my painter. And inside mdf. I want to find affordable cabinets untreated, solid wood. Do you have an idea where I can find such a thing? Thank you very much.
Here is a company that Debra recommended. I have not personally used them but they have an option for solid wood doors, frames and boxes. It is unusual to find solid wood boxes unless you have them custom made. You can also look at other companies on Debra’s List. Most have solid wood doors and frames with formaldehyde-free plywood boxes. It depends on your price range and how free of chemicals you need it to be. Don’t forget to use water-based, low VOC finishes.