If you are anything like me, you spend a great deal of time in the kitchen. There is nothing like coming home after a hard day of work and fixing healthy food to feed the mind, body and spirit. Most people, at some point in their lives, replace their kitchen cabinets as a result of changing styles and trends, or general wear and tear. It is important to not only choose cabinets that meet your individual design preferences, but also those which are eco-friendly and do not harm the air quality in your home.
Unfortunately, when people remodel they usually only consider the appearance. It is important during any domestic project to also consider the environmental impact. A great deal of cabinets on the market today are crafted from particle board, which is full of formaldehyde. Also, the adhesives that hold cabinets together usually contain formaldehyde and toxic glues that release toxic vapors into your home. The kitchen is the main source of formaldehyde emissions in most instances. This chemical, a known carcinogen, has no place near the home. Toxic vapors can be released even years after installation.
Consider purchasing products built with solid wood and exterior-grade plywood (which is better than intergrade plywood because it outgases formaldehyde at lower levels). Another option is cabinets made from reclaimed wood or recycled timber retrieved from old houses or fallen trees. This choice usually ensures better quality cabinets because it comes from old-growth rather than new-growth trees. Though this is typically a more expensive option, it is the smarter, more eco-friendly choice. Personally, my favorite material is bamboo. I love the look and feel of bamboo, from wood floors to cabinetry. For centuries, the Japanese have known about the natural warmth and beauty bamboo can bring to a home oasis. It is extremely durable and a rapidly renewable resource. Bamboo cabinets present a clean feel and a modern look. The Internet is a great resource for researching these options. Other eco-friendly cabinet options include fiberboard or wheatboard, which are made from composted straw. Both of these use resins that do not contain formaldehyde. Don't forget to check for good craftsmanship.
If you are going to spend the money on new cabinetry, consider spending a little extra to ensure they are environmentally safe. Before you make your purchases, log on greencabinetsource.org for a comprehensive list of companies that manufacture eco-friendly cabinets. It is time for all of us to start making smart and environmental design decisions for the future of our planet.
