Formaldehyde in Built-in Furniture: How Risky Is It and How to Choose Safe Wood Materials. What Are E2 / E1 / E0 Grades??

(Wood Grades E2 / E1 / E0 and Formaldehyde Emission)

Formaldehyde is a volatile organic compound (VOC) released from adhesives or resins used in engineered wood panels (PB, MDF, PLY), as well as from paints and certain glues.

It can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat, and prolonged exposure at high levels may increase the risk of certain cancers.

Therefore, it’s essential to:

Choose materials certified for low formaldehyde emissions,

Use NAF (No-Added-Formaldehyde) or Low-VOC adhesives and paints,

Seal all edges properly, and

Ensure proper ventilation after installation.

What is Formaldehyde and Where Is It Found in the Home?

• Commonly found in urea-formaldehyde adhesives used in Particle Board (PB), MDF, and Plywood.

• Paints, lacquers, sealants, and some household products may also release VOCs.

• Emission levels increase under high temperature, high humidity, or during the first few weeks after installation.

Health Risks

• Short-term: Eye and nose irritation, sore throat, dizziness.

• Long-term: Prolonged exposure at high levels is associated with an increased risk of certain cancers.

The goal of a safe built-in project is to “reduce emission sources + accelerate ventilation”, starting from material selection through to post-installation care.

The goal of a safe built-in project is to “reduce emission sources + accelerate ventilation”, starting from material selection through to post-installation care.

Checklist for Safer Material Choices (When Reviewing a Quotation)

Select materials with at least one of these certifications:

• CARB Phase 2 / US EPA TSCA Title VI (for composite wood)

• E1 / E0 (Europe/Asia) or F★★★★ (Japan)

• Resin/Adhesive: Ask for NAF (No-Added-Formaldehyde) or ULEF (Ultra-Low-Emitting Formaldehyde) options

• Paints/Lacquers: Use water-based, low-VOC formulas

• Factory production preferred: Minimize on-site cutting or spraying

• Documentation: Request certificates or test reports for wood panels, hardware, and coatings

Wood Grades & Formaldehyde Standards — E2 / E1 / E0 Explained

In built-in furniture, most materials are composite wood (Particle Board, MDF, or Plywood) bonded with resins or adhesives, which release different levels of formaldehyde.Grades E2, E1, and E0 indicate emission levels — the lower the number, the lower the emission.

Grade	Description	Recommended	Notes
E2	Higher emissions, not recommended for enclosed indoor spaces	—	Generally not used
E1	Low emission, widely accepted international standard	Typical indoor built-in furniture	Standard used by LAVAREDO (balanced in quality and cost)
E0	Stricter, lower emission than E1	Children’s rooms, allergy-sensitive users, enclosed areas	Higher cost + may require custom production or import

Source : speedydecor

After Installation: “Ventilation Plan” for the First 7–14 Days

• Open windows and fans several times a day for cross-ventilation.

• Run air conditioner or dehumidifier to maintain ~24–26°C and 40–60% RH (since humidity increases emissions).

• For sensitive individuals, delay moving in or limit time spent in the room initially.

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Source : speedydecor