Hylea
Wood Stains & Finishes
Coatings applied to wood surfaces for protection and aesthetics including stains, polyurethane, lacquer, and oils. Traditional finishes contain high levels of VOCs and hazardous solvents.
Why It Matters
Wood finishes can emit VOCs for months after application. Acid-catalyzed lacquers release formaldehyde. Two-part polyurethane contains hazardous isocyanates. Solvent-based products have high occupational risk.
Chemicals of Concern in This Product
VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds)
A broad category of chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature, releasing gases into...
Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde Releasers
A colorless gas used as a preservative, disinfectant, and textile finishing agent. In clothing,...
Isocyanates (MDI, TDI)
A family of highly reactive chemicals used to make polyurethane foams, coatings, and adhesives....
Toluene
A volatile solvent used in nail polishes, nail treatments, and hair dyes to dissolve other...
Ingredient Red Flags
Watch for these on ingredient labels:
- Oil-based polyurethane
- Lacquer (especially acid-catalyzed)
- Two-part finishes
- Strong solvent odor
- Application without ventilation
What to Look For
- ✓Water-based polyurethane or acrylic
- ✓Natural oil finishes (tung oil, linseed oil)
- ✓Hard wax oils
- ✓Factory pre-finished products when possible
Finding Safer Options
Water-based polyurethane, natural hardening oils (tung, linseed), hard wax oil finishes, factory pre-finished flooring and millwork.
Certifications to Look For
Other Products in This Category
Resilient Flooring (Vinyl, Linoleum)
Flexible flooring products including vinyl (PVC), linoleum, rubber, and...
Learn More →Insulation
Materials used to reduce heat transfer in walls, attics, and floors. Options...
Learn More →Interior Paint
Wall and ceiling coatings for indoor spaces. Modern latex/acrylic paints...
Learn More →