A Closer Look at IKEA Bedding
September 17, 2019 by Lisa Powers
We looked at IKEA bed frames in a previous post so it’s a natural follow-up to take a closer look at bedding. After looking at dozens of items the conclusion is the same; IKEA takes admirable steps to limit the use of harsh chemicals but in most cases the products are not completely non-toxic. This may be acceptable for some people in certain applications. I recommend taking extra steps to find truly natural products for the bedroom because we spend at least 7 hours (hopefully!) in it every night. The bed frame, mattress and bedding are most important because they are in continuous, close proximity to your body and you breath in any off-gassing chemicals. If you can afford to invest in purely non-toxic products for your bedroom there are many great companies on Debra’s List.
If you are in need of more affordable products, IKEA offers some bedding that is likely to be less toxic than products from retailers that don’t restrict chemicals beyond government standards and aren’t as transparent about their materials. But keep in mind that IKEA has the following limitations:
It doesn’t disclose all of the chemicals used in processing the final product.
It doesn’t use third-party testing.
It limits, but doesn’t exclude, use of harsh chemicals such as formaldehyde, phthalates, and fluorinated (water-repellant) chemicals.
Let’s look at the best IKEA options.
Sheets
PUDERVIVA is the only model that is made of 100% linen. It’s possible to process linen without chemicals. IKEA does not disclose the chemicals used to process the linen but, in general, linen is produced with fewer chemicals than cotton. It also states that no chlorine or optical brighteners are used. This is the best choice from IKEA.
VÅRVIAL, DVALA, SÖMNTUTA, NORDRUTA, and FÄRGMÅRA are made from 100% cotton without the use of chlorine or optic brighteners. These are the next best choices from IKEA. They could still contain low levels of chemicals.
AGNSÄV, JÄTTEVALLMO, and ÖKENSTJÄRNA are made with 100% cotton but they do not specify that they are made without chlorine or optical brighteners. This is a clue that they use both. Optical brighteners are chemicals used to make fibers appear cleaner and brighter. There are over 90 types of optical brighteners in commercial production so it’s impossible to say what is used in this product. I would avoid these items.
All of the other sheets are made with cotton and lyocell blends, which should be avoided. You can read more here about the issues with lyocell.
Pillows
KORNVALLMO, GULDPALM, and JORDRÖK are filled with duck down and feathers and have a 100% cotton cover. Down is a better choice for fill than polyurethane foam but it may not be entirely free of chemicals. You can read more here about chemicals that may be used to wash and treat down fill. These are the better choices among the IKEA pillows, but I would recommend instead to look for non-toxic pillows with fills such as 100% certified organic kapok, buckwheat or cotton that are comparable in price. There are several on Debra’s List.
All other pillows from IKEA are filled with polyurethane foam and are not recommended.
Comforters
HÖNSBÄR, KÄLLKRASSE,and SÖTVEDEL are filled with duck down and feathers and have a 100% cotton cover. These are the better choices from IKEA but, like the pillows, they may not be completely non-toxic. Look for certified organic options from brands listed on Debra’s list.
All of the other comforters are filled with polyester and are not recommended.
Bedspreads/Throws
JOFRIDis the best option from IKEA. It is a linen/cotton blend and is undyed and unbleached.
INDIRAis the next best option. It is made from 100% cotton without the use of chlorine and optical brighteners.
VÅRELD, TUVALIE, JOHANNE, and ODDRUN,are made with 100% cotton but it does not specify that they are made without chlorine and optical brighteners. Both are likely used in the production of these items.
All other bedspreads and throws are made with synthetic fibers and are not recommended.
Keep a look out for future posts on more IKEA products.
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