Does IKEA use Formaldehyde in their products?

While there is currently no standard in Canada for the use of formaldehyde, the IKEA limit value is approximately half of the European limit for individual wood-based materials. The limits decided within IKEA are kept by a comfortable margin to the stated limit values.

The IKEA product range is subjected to comprehensive tests and shall comply with the strictest applicable laws and safety standards on all our sales markets. We have detailed regulations on the use of chemicals and other substances in the manufacturing process.

We apply the strictest legislation for formaldehyde emissions in our products sold worldwide. Fabrics are covered under the Finnish standard whereas wood products must adhere to the California standard. All paints and lacquers applied to IKEA products are formaldehyde-free, which means that the final product will have an even lower emission level than the individual materials.

IKEA maintains the strictest standard currently available in all cases (which is the California standard at this time). These standards state that total emissions from a wood-based product cannot exceed 0.05 ppm. This emission level is achieved by testing each individual material component separately according to the method suitable for the material.

As part of our quality assurance program we do random tests for both the materials used in our products and the finished products. IKEA requires that all our suppliers, within a 24-hour notice, shall be able to show verification test reports and certificates stating compliance to IKEA demands and legal requirements available.
 

IKEA FORMALDEHYDE FAQ

What is formaldehyde?
Formaldehyde is a substance common in the natural environment. It is a colourless gas with a distinctive odour at high concentration. Formaldehyde is part of all living cells - for example in fruits and trees. It is commonly used in consumer products such as shampoo, but natural wood also contains formaldehyde.

Where is it used?
All products that are made from wood-based materials and textiles can contain formaldehyde. It is included as binding material in glue which is used for production of products made of e.g. particleboard. In textiles, formaldehyde is used in different resins.

Is formaldehyde hazardous?
Scientific and medical institutes, test labs and the industry have investigated possible hazards for decades. All agree that high levels of formaldehyde can lead to negative health effects. Recommended limit levels differ between markets and IKEA monitor developments and continuously work to adapt the requirements accordingly.

Can the sensitivity for formaldehyde differ?
Yes. There are differences in how sensitive we are to formaldehyde. Some are not bothered by moderate levels, while others are affected by low levels.

Is IKEA trying to lower formaldehyde emissions?
Yes. We are continuously working to lower formaldehyde emissions.

How is this done?
IKEA puts a lot of effort and resources in lowering formaldehyde emissions, targeting the glue used when producing wood-based products. This work also comprises improved material sourcing and production techniques. Furthermore, IKEA works closely with their suppliers to continually improve and implement quality routines and procedures. As part of the quality assurance program, IKEA does continuous tests for both the materials used in the products and the finished products. IKEA requires that all the suppliers, within a 24 hours’ notice shall be able to show verification test reports and certificates stating compliance to IKEA demands and legal requirements. Since many years, formaldehyde is forbidden in paint and lacquer used on IKEA products.

Is IKEA satisfied with the job done to lower formaldehyde emissions?
As an international retailer, IKEA has a big responsibility. The ambition is always that all products must be safe and IKEA constantly works to improve the material and the production methods used. Formaldehyde is forbidden in all paint and lacquers used for IKEA products. A continuous work is ongoing together with the industry to reduce formaldehyde, to improve material and production methods and reach efficient industrial production capacity.

I’m worried, what shall I do?
There is no need to worry. Customers should always feel confident that products bought at IKEA are safe and healthy to use. IKEA products must not contain any harmful chemical substances. They shall fulfil all legal requirements, but they shall also fulfil, or even exceed, customer expectations. Whenever possible, IKEA takes the strictest existing legal requirements and applies them globally on all products on all our sales markets. IKEA works precautionary and has phased out several chemicals that could potentially be harmful, often ahead of legislation.
 

Labelling of products containing Formaldehyde
An additional requirement for the labelling of products containing Formaldehyde came into effect from the Government of Canada. The updated requirement is an additional compliance statement on the product in English and French. It is important to note that the products are fully compliant with the regulations, apart from this additional French labelling requirement.

The products are fully compliant and labelling on production runs from date stamps 2236 onward is compliant.