The Good Trade editors endorse products we’ve personally researched, tested, and genuinely love. We earn a commission when you purchase products or services through some of the links provided. Learn more about our methodology and business model here.
Over the years, we’ve furnished our homes with the most sustainable, nontoxic furniture we could find — these are our top picks for all-natural, eco-friendly ottomans and poufs.
When we want to level up our spaces but can’t afford an entirely new sofa or loveseat, we think of ottomans and poufs. Big enough to make a difference in the room’s style and comfort (especially for us floor-sitters), but not so much that we break the bank. As we decide which ottoman or pouf to settle for, it’s important to consider options that are nontoxic and sustainable for a healthy home with little impact on our environment.
Why is nontoxic furniture important?
Nontoxic furniture is crucial, especially for items like ottomans and poufs, due to their proximity to people and frequent use. Ottomans and poufs are often placed in living rooms, bedrooms, or other areas where people spend a lot of time relaxing or entertaining, making them a significant part of indoor environments. Nontoxic materials in these pieces ensure that harmful chemicals or substances (such as formaldehyde and VOCs) aren’t released into the air or absorbed through contact, which helps promote a healthier indoor environment. This is particularly important for individuals with sensitivities or allergies, and especially for households with children and pets who may come into close contact with furniture surfaces.
Nontoxic materials are also better for our environment, as they reduce the production and release of harmful substances during manufacturing and disposal. Investing in nontoxic ottomans and poufs not only benefits your health but also contributes to a cleaner and safer planet! 💚🌎
Our team has sought to furnish our homes with the most sustainable, nontoxic furniture we can find throughout the years (or secondhand if we can find it!). We’ve selected the ottomans and poufs below thanks to their nontoxic materials, responsible manufacturing, and — of course — impeccable design.
If you’re in the market for more new furniture, here are our top picks for sustainable couches and eco-friendly coffee tables. And if you’re on the hunt for some decor for your place, we’ve got it handled with our guide on the best marketplaces where you can buy art online!
1. Lorena Canals
Best For | Nontoxic and hypoallergenic poufs
Features | Natural wool & cotton fabrics, machine washable, nontoxic dyes, handcrafted one by one in India, hypoallergenic
Prices Starting At | $129
Lorena Canals, along with her dedicated team, epitomizes creativity and practicality in designing sustainable and socially responsible products. Known for crafting the world’s first washable rug, the brand’s meticulous attention to detail, quality, and originality can be seen throughout their products, including their handcrafted poufs. Designed to complement their washable rugs and other home accessories, these one-of-one hypoallergenic poufs are non-toxic and machine washable, making them a perfect addition to a child’s room (or your own cozy reading nook!).
2. Sabai
Best For | Velvet ottomans
Features | Ethically made in North Carolina, only sustainably sourced & nontoxic materials, recycled packaging, Certi-PUR certified foam
Prices Starting At | $395
Sabai’s commitment to sustainability is truly impressive. Products are made with eco-friendly materials like recycled plastic bottles and responsibly sourced wood, and then assembled with fasteners to entirely avoid VOCs and off-gassing. Choose your preferred fabric on The Essential Ottoman (our favorite is the dusty rose recycled velvet—swoon!). You can also find gently used furniture at discounted prices through Sabai Revive.
3. The Citizenry
Best For | Leather ottomans
Features | Vegetable-tanned leather, cotton, or locally sourced rattan, handcrafted by artisans, fair wages, responsibly sourced materials
Prices Starting At | $399
The Citizenry scours the globe to find the best in artisan goods and techniques, from Peruvian master weavers to block printers in India. The brand carries a line of ottomans made in small batches; some are crafted in fair trade spaces in Portugal using vegetable-tanned leather, and others are workshop-made in Jaipur, India, using natural cotton. Yet all are timeless and luxurious.
4. Urban Natural
Best For | Wide variety of colors & styles
Features | Recycled & sustainably sourced materials, handcrafted, ethically-sourced products
Prices Starting At | $369
Urban Natural is a furniture marketplace like no other. Committed to their five pillars, which include ethically sourced, handcrafted, organic materials, sustainably made, and American-made, each product on their site must meet at least three of these five values. Their handcrafted, heirloom-quality ottomans and poufs are built to last and enjoy for life. With a focus on ethical sourcing and sustainability, Urban Natural ensures fair compensation for artisans and supports community empowerment initiatives. They partner with trusted workshops that prioritize safe, organic materials and sustainable practices to help create a healthy home environment. And by prioritizing American-made products, Urban Natural reduces its carbon footprint and supports local artisans and communities. Now that’s a cause we can stand behind.
