In the center of the room, the sofa plays a key role in the home. A decorative feature, a source of comfort, a place to share... It’s with us every day, whether we’re relaxing or spending time together.
But do we really know it? No matter how soft, comfortable, or beautiful it may be, a sofa isn’t always as cozy as it seems. Between opaque manufacturing practices, numerous imports, and hazardous materials, our beloved sofa could be hiding many secrets.
An Awkward Situation
Today, we know that furniture plays a role in indoor air quality. Made from synthetic materials, chemical resins, and other petrochemicals, it emits volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that affect the air in a room.
While construction and decorative products are required to carry an “indoor air emissions” label to provide information on VOC emission levels, sofas are exempt. As a result, it is impossible for consumers to know the actual impact on indoor air quality.
However, the vast majority of sofas contribute to pollution in our homes. From their frames to their covers, including the upholstery and springs, they contain various synthetic materials: foam, polyester, imitation leather, chemical dyes, etc.
In addition to affecting our homes, these materials are manufactured in ways 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, primarily in the form of higher prices and longer delivery times.
According to INSEE, spending in the sofa market declined by more than 5% between 2019 and 2020 in France. However, the post-lockdown trend appears to have shown an increase in this type of purchase, as the French sought to renovate or move after the lockdown; for example, the home improvement sector saw an increase of nearly 3% in its revenue.
Between its manufacture, transportation, and use, the sofa is ultimately less welcoming than people realize. The good news is that awareness is growing, and healthier, more responsible solutions are emerging .
A More Welcoming Future
Increasingly concerned about their environmental impact, some French people are turning to a new, more sensible approach to consumption. While the "Made in France" movement is on the rise, buying local products is considered by some to be a golden rule for everyday items.
In addition, the composition and list of ingredients are increasingly piquing consumers' curiosity. Natural, organic, and minimally processed products appeal to the most discerning consumers.
What about the sofa? Natural materials aren’t just healthier—they’re also more comfortable and remarkably durable. The softness of cotton, the lightness of linen, the suppleness of natural latex… a skillful blend that offers truly relaxing moments. Making a responsible choice is the best way to optimize the user’s well-being, while also protecting their health and the planet.
By choosing a sofa meticulously crafted from natural materials, consumers are choosing 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.
At every level, Kipli is committed to upholding specific promises to offer a sofa that is as comfortable and harmonious as it is healthy and sustainable: natural materials, French manufacturing, local suppliers, water-based foam, wood sourced from sustainably managed French forests, etc. (Learn more about Kipli’s commitments.)
In general, new solutions are being developed day after day—whether in terms of the materials used, manufacturing processes, or even the relocation of factories in France. Little by little, we’re moving toward a more transparent world, so that there are no more secrets and our furniture has nothing to hide!