Furniture protective films are designed to safeguard newly purchased furniture against everyday risks such as bumps and scratches.
The concept of "film" protection for furniture dates back to the 1970s. According to Ma Hongjun, General Manager of Xinye Solid Wood Furniture Factory, acquiring furniture was a significant undertaking for families during the material scarcity of the 1970s and 80s. Early protective measures often involved placing a sheet of glass over the tabletop, which provided effective protection. Over time, protection extended beyond just tabletops to items like coffee tables and TV stands, and the materials evolved from glass to options such as tablecloths and PVC plastic.
Commonly used protective coverings today include glass, tablecloths, and PVC mats, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Glass is easy to clean and maintain but is heavy, fragile, poses safety risks, and is cumbersome to replace. Tablecloths offer a wide variety of patterns but are not waterproof or fire-resistant, soil easily, and are difficult to wash. PVC mats are easy to clean and protect the surface well, but the edges tend to curl and the material yellows over time; furthermore, they often contain toxic substances that pose health risks.
In addition, new types of furniture films have entered the market, featuring materials such as rigid PET film and soft PHT film. These films conform more closely to the furniture surface and offer superior protection; unlike PVC mats, they are free from toxic substances and do not damage the furniture surface when removed or replaced.