In recent years, the detrimental effects of fast fashion on the environment have garnered significant attention. However, there’s another, equally concerning issue that often goes overlooked: fast furniture.
In the United States alone, a staggering 12.1 million tons of furniture were discarded in 2018, with the majority ending up in landfills. While there’s many factors that contribute to this trend, the primary reason is that many households choose cheap, poorly constructed furniture that is only made to last a few years. This not only leads to unnecessary waste, but also can cost families more money in the longrun as they’re forced to replace furniture each time it breaks.
What’s Considered to Be “Fast Furniture”
Fast furniture is characterized by its low cost, mass production, and often inferior quality. Similar to fast fashion, it prioritizes speed and affordability over durability and sustainability. Manufacturers churn out vast quantities of furniture using cheap materials and questionable labor practices, contributing to a cycle of consumption and waste.
Shopping Strategically to Avoid Fast Furniture
Invest in quality materials
Opting for furniture made from high-quality materials is essential in combating the fast furniture trend. Look for pieces crafted from solid hardwood, metal, or sustainable alternatives like bamboo. Materials that should raise red flags include particle board, plywood, and aluminum, amongst others. While authentic materials may come with a higher initial price tag, their durability and longevity make them a worthwhile investment in the long run.
Quality joinery
Pay attention to the construction of furniture pieces. Well-made furniture should exhibit sturdy joinery techniques such as dovetail or mortise and tenon joints. Avoid pieces held together with staples or glue, as they are more prone to breakage and deterioration over time.
Shop with reputable brands
Pay close attention to online reviews to determine if other shoppers have had negative complaints about the furniture they received. Additionally, consider how much transparency the brands provide into their manufacturing processes and their leadership; brands that operate fairly anonymously do so for a reason.
Be weary of “too good to be true pricing” – We’ve all heard the idiom, “you get what you pay for,” a saying that holds particular relevance in the world of furniture. After all, high-quality materials and skilled labor come at a cost to brands, so pricing that seems jaw-droppingly low should raise suspicions.
Give preference to timeless style choices over fickle trends – Certain decor themes endure the test of time, while others may quickly fall out of favor. Therefore, it’s essential to contemplate whether you can envision yourself still enamored with the aesthetic two (or ten) years down the line when making a purchase. This principle holds especially true when selecting children’s furniture, as little ones’ tastes can change as quickly as their growing bodies.
Other Eco-Friendly Considerations For Furniture
Favor recycled materials
Consider furniture made from recycled materials, such as upcycled barnwood or poly lumber for outdoor furniture. These materials not only reduce waste but also often boast superior durability and resistance to environmental elements. Embracing recycled materials is a step towards closing the loop on the furniture production cycle and minimizing resource depletion.
Support small businesses with localized supply chains – While a few large furniture retailers may indeed implement sustainable practices in their sourcing and manufacturing, they represent a minority. Unfortunately, many major retailers have faced allegations of sourcing illegally harvested wood from protected areas. Additionally, the extensive supply chains and large-scale manufacturing processes of these companies contribute significantly to carbon emissions.
On the other hand, small businesses that prioritize local sourcing of wood (preferably from sustainable forests) and operate in smaller facilities tend to have a smaller carbon footprint. For a prime example of sustainable practices, consider the approach taken by Amish furniture makers, known for their commitment to ethical and environmentally conscious production methods.
Take measures to properly protect your furniture – There are a number of steps you can take to extend the life of your furniture, including:
- Use coasters and placemats to shield tabletops
- Minimize direct sunlight, as this can cause fading and warping
- Avoid excess humidity or direct contact with moisture
- Use gentle, non-abrasive cleaning products recommended for specific furniture materials to avoid damage or discoloration
Parting Thoughts About Fast Furniture
By prioritizing quality, durability, and ethical considerations in our purchasing decisions, we can combat the trend of disposable furniture. This involves investing in well-made, timeless pieces from reputable brands, supporting small businesses with localized supply chains, and embracing eco-friendly materials. Additionally, taking steps to protect and prolong the lifespan of furniture further contributes to a more sustainable approach. Together, these actions can lead to a more environmentally conscious and resilient furniture industry, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.
