Why you might want to rethink your next stain-resistant soft furnishings

A multitude of soft furnishings, for instance, sofas, rugs, curtains, cushions, wrinkle-free and permanent press clothing items and bedding are treated with stain guards, to keep them crease-free and eliminate them from being damaged or soiled easily.

However, the chemicals employed in the manufacture of these formulas often contain per-fluorinated compounds (PFC), believed to cause cancer and birth defects. Ensure new purchases of soft furnishings are not treated with stain-resistant chemicals or spray-on fabric protectors. Instead, opt for natural materials, fibres and fabrics, such as natural wood, recycled timbers, cork, coir, wool, organic cotton, hemp, flax, jute, cashmere, mohair, alpaca and silk, especially for flooring, mattresses, bedding and baby clothes.