Rugs, like many products used in everyday environments, may contain chemicals that affect indoor air quality. Both rugs and underlays can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are released into the surrounding air and may have adverse effects on health and the indoor environment. For consumers, understanding chemical content and potential risks can be complex.
To address these challenges, the European Union introduced the REACH regulation (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) in 2006. The regulation was established to strengthen the protection of human health and the environment by identifying and limiting the use of substances that may pose risks.
REACH also encourages alternative assessment methods in order to reduce the need for animal testing.
Under REACH, the use of certain dyes, flame retardants and other substances in textiles and rugs is restricted. The regulation also defines strict thresholds for CMR substances – chemicals that are carcinogenic, mutagenic or harmful to reproduction – including formaldehyde, heavy metals and benzene compounds.
As a responsible producer and distributor of handmade rugs, compliance with European legislation is a fundamental requirement. All products are developed and supplied in accordance with applicable REACH regulations, ensuring that substances used in materials and production meet current EU standards.
REACH compliance requires the identification, assessment and management of risks related to any substances placed on the European market. This applies not only to industrial chemicals, but also to a wide range of everyday products such as textiles, furniture, paints, cleaning agents and electrical goods. As a result, REACH has a broad impact across industries within the EU.
In addition to meeting mandatory legal requirements, further measures can be taken to strengthen chemical control and consumer protection. These initiatives may include supporting suppliers in meeting regulatory criteria and implementing additional internal guidelines.
To ensure continuous monitoring and improvement, external expertise can be used to develop dedicated product and environmental guidelines. Such frameworks are typically reviewed and updated on a regular basis, helping to maintain high standards and reduce the presence of potentially harmful substances over time.
We represent carefully selected rug and textile producers, supplying leading brands and projects across the Nordic countries.