Maui Living Furniture

Green Living

Being “green” has escaped the boundaries of building materials, energy efficiency, and disposable products.  It has had an impact on the textile and furniture industries also. There are eco-conscious choices for the items we use in our homes like bedding, furniture, towels, and more.

An organic mattress is an excellent way to reduce exposure to the toxins so prevalent in consumer products today.  They are constructed with cruelty-free Eco-Wool, certified organic cotton, and 100% natural rubber latex — all renewable, biodegradable resources. These natural materials are grown , processed, and manufactured without toxic chemicals so you can rest peacefully.

Natural rubber (latex) provides a naturally resilient and healthful sleep environment.  It offers comfort and support for a deeper, sounder sleep.  A mattress made with natural rubber eliminates 85% of the motion transfer from a restless partner. Natural latex is produced from the milky white sap of the rubber tree (Hevea Brasiliensis) and has a life expectancy of 20 years or more. It has a superior feel to polyurethane foam and provides unsurpassed resiliency and comfort. It is naturally anti-microbial and dust-mite resistant  — an excellent choice for those who suffer from allergies.

The OrganicPedic mattresses in our showroom are constructed with cruelty-free Eco-Wool, certified organic cotton, and 100% natural rubber latex — all renewable, biodegradable resources.  The natural materials are grown, processed, and manufactured without toxic chemicals.  The use of Eco-Wool meets all US and Canadian flammability requirements for bedding eliminating the need for flame retardant chemicals.

Studies have found that most Americans who undergo testing have fire retardants stored in their bodies, and the most likely source is toxic furniture in the home. Babies and children, who are most vulnerable to its effects, are showing the highest levels.

Bamboo is a sustainable, renewable and rapid growing resource – a bamboo plant grows to full maturity in 5 years.  The textile industry has embraced bamboo for its superior durability and luxurious feel.  Check out our bed and bath linens produced from bamboo as well as our bamboo fabric selection. Bamboo Furniture designed from bamboo that is at least 5 years old will ensure the strongest hardness and stability and will provide years of enjoyment.  Bamboo is also one of the most efficient plants on the earth which remove carbon from the atmosphere – carbon is the largest contributor to global warming.

“Reclaimed” wood is being used by eco-conscious furniture manufacturers and designers.  Materials that would otherwise be destroyed are redesigned into new home furnishings.  Aged wood is salvaged and re-created into timeless pieces for the home and office.

VOC’s are Volatile Organic Compounds and are often found in paints, stains, glues and other materials associated with the construction of traditional furniture and  in home construction.  Before you take on a  project such as painting check with your local suppliers to see if they offer  low VOC paints.  If you plan to put in a new floor check out the sustainable options available.  Use adhesives that meet the healthy standard for low VOC’s. In addition to being a source of indoor pollution, VOC’s are also a source of greenhouse gases.

Beware of labels claiming to be “Green Friendly”.  In our Glossary you can find a list of terms that may help you in purchasing furnishings.  Look for products endorsed by SFC, FSC, or with GEI, GOTS, Oeka-Tex, and LEED certifications.

As consumers we have the ability to effect change by requesting earth friendly options and supporting businesses that are providing products that make living a sustainable lifestyle possible.  We believe that supporting organic and sustainable industries is just one step in the process of creating a healthy planet and reversing the carbon footprint here on Maui and throughout the world.