You might not think of your kitchen or bath cabinets as having an effect on your home’s air quality, but some materials and finishes used in their manufacture may contain formaldehyde, which, if inhaled, can cause a condition that increases your sensitivity to other chemicals, such as those in paints, finishes, and even cosmetics. Even small amounts of formaldehyde can increase your risk of nose- and lung-related cancers.

Stock cabinets are often made from medium- density fiberboard (MDF), which is essentially the waste from lumber mills (sawdust and shavings) pressed together with resin to create a solid piece of material. That resin, and some of the finishes used to stain and seal the members, contains formaldehyde.

To avoid the health risks and environmental effects of formaldehyde, you can install cabinetry made of PrimeBoard or of solid wood. Unlike MDF, PrimeBoard is made from wheat straw and a non-formaldehyde resin. If you choose solid wood, try to go with something environmentally sustainable such as bamboo. Cabinets should be made entirely of these alternative materials, not just the doors or drawer fronts.

“Green” cabinetry can be hard to find and is expensive because only a few manufacturers produce it—although more are beginning to offer formaldehyde-free products. To keep your budget in check, try looking for used solid-wood cabinets at salvage-supply stores, and install metal shelving where its appearance won’t be prominent, such as in the garage or pantry.

Unless you’re adept at carpentry projects, installing cabinetry is a job for a professional with the right skills and tools, especially for base cabinets, which will also need a countertop installed. If you are an experienced DIYer, you can find installation instructions for both cabinets and countertops in the Interior Improvements area of HomeTips.