Why eco-conscious furniture manufacturers use FibreGuard fabrics

The furniture manufacturing industry is undergoing a period of rapid change. Innovation is crucial for manufacturers to stay in business and meet the changing demands of customers.

In this article we explore how FibreGuard fabrics are helping furniture manufacturers create eco-conscious products. We’re also sharing the lessons we’ve learned from our own sustainability journey - and how these insights can fit the furniture manufacturing industry!

Let's dive in.

Understanding the sustainability challenges faced by furniture manufacturers

Furniture manufacturing is a fast-paced industry, and it’s undergoing a huge transformation, just as the textiles industry is. It’s always helpful to pinpoint where the drivers for growth are, in any industry: doing this gives manufacturers the edge they need to keep ahead.

It’s a fact across all markets that consumers are increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of products they purchase (Deloitte: Sustainability and Consumer Behaviour 2022), and furniture is no different. However, like many industries, furniture manufacturing has significant environmental impacts.

How can furniture manufacturers reduce their overall environmental impact?

Where there’s a difficulty, though, there’s always an opportunity. Before they even begin choosing upholstery fabrics, there are lots of ways that furniture manufacturers can reduce their environmental impact.

Here are some things we are learning from our continual sustainability journey. In fact, these are all actions we’re already doing at FibreGuard and in our wider group.

1. First of all, choice of materials is an easy entry-point for more sustainable furniture manufacturing. This essentially requires that furniture designers opt for renewable and non-toxic materials their products. This can include using responsibly sourced wood, recycled materials, and environmentally friendly alternatives to more traditional furniture components. It's best to choose low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints and fabrics. FibreGuard's STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification means that our fabrics are free of VOCs and don't contain any harmful substances. Not only that, but many of our fabrics also meet the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) which verifies their recycled polyester content.
2. The next low-hanging fruit for manufacturers is to look at the energy used during their production processes, and to improve energy efficiency. This can help reduce energy consumption and lower carbon emissions.
3. And finally, now is the time for furniture manufacturers to collaborate with suppliers and partners who share the same sustainability goals. Look for certifications and standards, such as Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification for wood sourcing, to ensure responsible and sustainable practices throughout the supply chain.

Key benefits of FibreGuard performance upholstery for eco-conscious furniture makers

It's easy to say that 'our products our sustainable' and leave it at that, without really explaining how or why, or even what 'sustainable' means in the context of textiles. Here’s a statement we stand by: FibreGuard fabrics have several benefits that help furniture manufacturers create more eco-conscious products.

Can our textiles give furniture makers the edge? We say: yes.

Here's how:

1. Easy to clean fabrics, no chemicals required: FibreGuard's furnishing fabrics are known for their stain resistance. Our fabrics are so easy to maintain that this allows furniture manufacturers to create furniture pieces with upholstery fabrics that actively reduce the need for harsh cleaning chemicals. In fact, you don't need any bleach or chemicals like that to clean our fabrics: they're completely washable with only water and white household soap. This empowers the end consumers to care for their furniture in ways that are much more eco-friendly.
2. Durable fabrics for furniture that endures: FibreGuard fabrics are designed to be durable and long-lasting. This high level of textile durability adds to the life of a piece of furniture, making it less likely you will have to buy a new one in the near future.
3. FibreGuard fabrics hold various environmental certifications: At FibreGuard and in our wider group, we understand the role that regulation and certification plays when considering textile products and textile production. Why does this matter for furniture manufacturers? Our eco standards are critical of the promise our suppliers make to us, and the promise that we then extend to our customers. Explore our traceability and transparency efforts through eco certification. Explore our eco standards.

Don't just take our word for it. DIYGirls design functional interiors that appeal to their clients' special senses. Their solutions are personalised specifically for each client based on their unique style and needs—and always with sustainability in mind.

“We have found FibreGuard to be a remarkable fabric,” says Vinette Diab Nicholls, DIYGirls Founder. “Our team of designers are passionate about ensuring high quality in all our products and believe in using 100% stain free fabric that's free from harmful chemicals, wherever possible. We are proud to offer our clients furniture that is upholstered with a selection of FibreGuard performance fabrics as it will truly enhance their lifestyles, while encouraging sustainability.” - Read the case study here.

Ready to collaborate with FibreGuard?

Today we looked at tangible ways furniture manufacturers can offer consumers eco-conscious product. We hope you found this article helpful! Interested in chatting to us about a production partnership? We can’t wait to hear from you – email us today!