Guide
Is wood safe for your pet’s furniture?
Wood is a good material for pet furniture when properly finished. Here’s what we use and what the rules say.
Updated: 04/10/2026 · YAO, woodworking workshop in Barcelona
In short
- Pine and poplar plywood have no known issues in pet furniture.
- A cured water-based varnish forms a hard, odourless film.
- Since August 2026 the EU limits formaldehyde emissions from wooden furniture.
- Food touches only the bowls (stainless or stoneware).
Finish and rules
We use 3 coats of water-based polyurethane. There’s no specific EU rule for varnishes in contact with food, so food only touches the food-safe bowls. For toy boxes the reference is the EN 71-3 toy standard.
Cleaning
- Damp cloth and mild soap; dry spills.
- Bowls in the dishwasher.
- No bleach or scouring pads.
FAQ
Is the varnish toxic?
A fully cured water-based varnish is stable and odourless; food always goes in the bowl.
