Family’s illness due to formaldehyde from Williams-Sonoma furniture

October 17, 7:17 PMSan Jose Environmental Health ExaminerLinda Kincaid, MPH, CIH

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End tables with high formaldehyde.
Photo by Linda Kincaid.

Tara Lucas learned that her headaches and her children’s respiratory illnesses were due to formaldehyde from MDF doors and trim in her Los Altos home. Tara removed the doors that emitted formaldehyde, and she installed mechanical ventilation to bring fresh into the home 24/7.

Tara’s headaches subsided. Three-year old Nicky no longer has asthma symptoms. Five-year old Kerry is much more active and engaged. Unfortunately, Kerry’s adenoids are so enlarged from chronic formaldehyde exposure that he will require surgery.

The formaldehyde problems seemed to be solved. However, the grandparents continued getting ill when they visited. Tara suspected formaldehyde from furniture in the guest room, and she requested further testing.

Tara’s suspicions were correct. Her Williams-Sonoma end tables emitted substantial formaldehyde. With the bedroom door closed, formaldehyde would concentrate in the room. A person sleeping in the room would breathe enough formaldehyde to become ill.

Tara moved the end tables out of the house the same day she learned they emitted formaldehyde. After several years of illness due to formaldehyde in her home, she now has no tolerance for items that can make her family ill.

Free formaldehyde testing is available for residents of new homes in Los Altos.