In home decoration, fabrics like curtains and bedding play a vital role, yet many people overlook the environmental impact of these "small" items. To enhance properties such as wrinkle resistance and flame retardancy, manufacturers often add chemical additives like resins during production. Additionally, during the dyeing and printing process, various dyes, auxiliaries, and finishing agents are used, some of which may contain formaldehyde. If not properly removed, these substances can gradually release formaldehyde into the air, contributing to indoor air pollution.
Homes with large floor-to-ceiling windows or viewing windows tend to use a significant amount of curtain fabric, making them more susceptible to indoor pollution issues. Even after completing all renovation work, some homeowners find that the indoor formaldehyde levels are still high—partly due to the presence of these chemicals in fabric products.
So, how can you choose quality curtain fabrics when decorating your new home? According to Xu Caihui, a Designer at the Red Star·May Kailong Zhengzhou building materials store, well-known curtain brands typically have reliable quality and undergo strict certifications during production. On the other hand, low-end curtains might have environmental concerns. She advises that if a curtain has a strong, pungent smell, it could indicate residual formaldehyde, and it's best to avoid such products. When selecting colors, opting for lighter shades can reduce the risk of both formaldehyde and poor color fastness.
Ma Li, the Henan agent for Mercure fabrics, recommends not using new curtains immediately after purchase. Instead, they should be soaked in clean water first and then hung in a well-ventilated area to dry naturally. This helps remove harmful substances more effectively. Song Lei, a designer from Longfa Decoration, suggests that if a room has multiple windows, you can mix different types of window coverings, such as bamboo shades or Venetian blinds, to maintain the overall design while reducing reliance on fabric curtains. After all, fabric curtains are just one option among many in modern home decor.
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