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Chemical finishes are often added to upholstery fabrics to make them resistant to water, dirt or fire, but these treatments may emit toxic and irritating volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) such as formaldehyde. According to the Environmental Working Group, Teflon and other stain- and water-resistant fabric coatings can break down into perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which was recently classified as a likely human carcinogen by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The EPA is calling on companies to voluntarily phase PFOA and related perfluorochemicals out of products by the year 2015. In the meantime, it's worth exploring the many stylish textiles that are produced without unhealthy finishes.

It's possible to find untreated fabrics in weaves and fibers that resist stains on their own. In addition, "Natural fabrics are not much harder to care for, and they feel better because they breathe. We recommend using baking soda and water to spot clean your furniture," says Donna Halloran, general manager of Furnature, a Boston-based manufacturer of custom, chemical-free furniture.

Buying a brand-new sofa upholstered in natural fibers can be expensive ($800-$3,000 for a sofa, not including fabric), but you can reupholster your existing sofa, or have a custom slipcover made, to cut down on chemical exposures.