As homeowners, we all want to live in a comfortable and stylish space. But what if we could also make our home more environmentally friendly? It may seem daunting at first, but it’s easier than you think to create a greener living space and start living sustainably. Here are some tips to get you started.
Go green with the materials you choose
The first step to designing an eco-friendly living space is choosing green materials to work into your design plan. There are lots of ways to incorporate environmentally conscious and recycled items into your decor:
- Consider installing bamboo flooring in your home if your floors require an update. It’s environmentally friendly and sturdy, making it a good choice.
- A fresh countertop is a fantastic method to modernize your kitchen.
- Recycled glass tiles or even repurposed wood might give your kitchen that rustic feel.
Choose plants carefully
Having lots of plants around your house is a beautiful way to decorate and bring nature indoors. But not all plant life is created equal. Here are some things to bear in mind when choosing plants for your eco-friendly living space:
- Pets are toxic to many houseplants, so be cautious when selecting greenery for your living room or family room. If you have pets, choose indoor plants that can tolerate their presence.
- Choose natural elements over live flowers whenever possible. Live arrangements tend to use more water than artificial ones. Additionally, they can be dangerous to cut and transport.
Go green with electronics
You probably already know that recycling is essential, but did you know it’s just as crucial to reuse old materials? Many electronic devices contain hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium. You want that junk out of your home. So before you buy new electronics, search for products that can be refurbished and reused.
Consider the lights
Indoor lighting is a straightforward way to make your living space feel more eco-friendly. If you want to be eco-conscious without sacrificing comfort, consider these options:
- Switch out old light bulbs and replace them with energy-efficient ones. Not only do these bulbs last longer, but they also help you save money.
- Covering windows with light-catching drapes is a fantastic method to cut down on artificial lighting. Covering windows with thin curtains may help diffuse the sun’s rays during harsh weather.
Go green with the scent
The fragrance is a huge part of making a room cozy and inviting for many people. However, opting for a natural scent can be tricky if you live an eco-friendly lifestyle. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to add organic scents to your home:
- Please take advantage of fresh flowers and other plants that release their fragrance.
- Melissa and lavender oil can be perfect for adding a fresh scent to your home decor, depending on the style you’re going for.
- Cedar chips are often used in closets to reduce moisture and prevent mildew. It’s also a great way to add organic scent throughout your house.
Be mindful of chemicals
One of the easiest ways to maintain a healthy home is good ventilation and humidity control. But with so many products available, it can be hard to know what’s safe for your family and eco-friendly living space. Here are some tips:
- If you have kids or pets, avoid using chemical cleaners around your home. There are plenty of natural alternatives for cleaning your floors, windows, and more.
- If you need to use harsh chemicals around your house, make sure you open windows or run a fan to keep fumes under control.
Consider the humidity
Humidity is significant in the bathroom because it can cause mold and mildew growth. One of the best ways to limit humidity is with a bathroom fan. Not only does this reduce humidity, but it can also help improve indoor air quality.
Go green on laundry day
There are so many options for eco-friendly living space that you don’t have to sacrifice your comfort or style. Whether you’re trying to protect your health, save water or reduce carbon emissions, there are simple ways you can make your home more eco-friendly.
Start with Your Landscape Design
When designing your eco-friendly living space, it’s imperative to consider the outside of your home first. Before you start decorating or buying furniture, consult a residential and commercial landscaping and lawn care expert to see how you can maximize the benefits of green and open spaces.
Some of the tips from professionals include:
- Maintaining healthy grass that’s high enough to cover your ankles.
- Creating a beautiful pathway from the front of your home to the sidewalk or driveway with low-water plants and tropical flowers
- Adding a bench near an outdoor fountain or birdbath so you can enjoy the sounds of running water
- Planting trees to shade your house, patio, or driveway
Creating an eco-friendly living space can be a challenge, but it’s just about being creative. Before buying new products, consider how you can repurpose objects for a new look. Then start cleaning up your landscaping design to incorporate more natural elements. This is one project you’ll enjoy from beginning to end.