Upholstered furniture has been a major source of chemical flame retardant (FR) exposures in US homes since the 1970s. FRs are a large group of chemicals, many of which are associated with adverse health effects, including cancer, reproductive toxicity, and neurotoxicity.

A study by Rodgers et al showed that flame retardant dust concentrations in household dust were lower after older furniture was replaced.  Concentrations in dust remained lower a year after furniture replacement. They decreased after replacement of furniture foam.