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Step 1
See if the Forest Stewardship Council or another organization for conservation certified it as being eco-friendly.
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Step 2
Look for the type of material it covers. Foam cushions are either petroleum products or made from corn foam fibers, soy or other alternative eco-friendly fibers.
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Step 3
See if the fabric is a natural material. Synthetics like nylon contain petroleum. Cotton and other natural fibers are eco-friendly. Look at the fiber contents.
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Step 4
Consider the "cradle-to-cradle" life cycle for the product. Recycled plastic pop bottles make fabric and fleece. Look for a tag that says the fabric is recycled, such as "recycled polyester," when you buy green upholstery.
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Step 5
Hunt for synthetic material that comes from natural ingredients. Two of these are Seacell from seaweed and Modal from beech trees.
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Step 6
Look for the way the company prints or dyes the fabric. Find companies that use water-based ink that is nontoxic. See if the company minimizes the use of water, an natural asset becoming more valuable each day. Rubie Green, a green textile manufacturer, uses methods that conserve water.
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Step 7
Investigate whether the company uses chemicals to finish the fabric. If the company uses only heat and pressure, the upholstery is eco-friendly. When you buy this type of green upholstery, fading may occur so you'll need to dry clean the fabric and won't be able to use it outdoors.
