Designed to help us relax in moments spent indoors (particularly important among this period of lockdown against the COVID-19 pandemic), IKEA’s new April drop features sustainable and handmade products, plus the brand’s long-awaited air-purifying curtains.
The Gunrid curtains, when activated by daylight, break down common indoor air pollutants. Unlike typical air purifying units, the Gunrid curtains do not require electricity and are self-cleaning, meaning you can save water, energy and money reducing the number of washes.
The innovative technology uses a mineral-based photocatalyst coating that is applied to the textile to give it air-purifying superpowers, plus, the curtains themselves are made from recycled PET bottles. A pair of curtains is priced at $59.
“Besides enabling people to breathe better air at home, we hope that Gunrid will increase people’s awareness of indoor air pollution, inspiring behavioural changes that contribute to a world of clean air,” says Lena Pripp-Kovac, head of sustainability at Inter IKEA Group.
“Gunrid is the first product to use the technology, but the development will give us opportunities for future applications on other textiles.”
Other items in the April drop that has us excited include the Klarafina and Moakajsa cushion covers, $19.99 each.
The pastel covers with intricate stitching and delicate tassels are handmade by skilled artisans in the remote regions of Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh in India as part of a social entrepreneur’s initiative that supports the livelihoods and local handicraft traditions.
Since 2013, IKEA has employed over 1070 people to work on several collections, including this one.
Another item garnering excitement is the Tiphede rug, made of 100% recycled cotton with yarn scraps, and makes for a natural alternative to oil-based rugs.
“It uses no new raw materials and helps reduce climate impact,” says IKEA, adding that with the rugs beautiful off-white colour, it can comfortably sit anywhere in the house, no matter your home’s aesthetic.
What’s more, it’s an incredibly affordable piece at just $19.99.
Take a scroll below for more of our fave pieces. You can browse the whole collection and shop from IKEA in stores and online from April 1.
