Sustainable decoration is a phrase that may be lost on some of us, but being environmentally conscious and eco-friendly should always include our immediate surroundings — our home.
It’s easy to think that going eco-friendly at home means sacrificing your preferred decor style, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Whether you’re moving soon or staying put, the planet will thank you.
An eco-friendly home means you’ll be supporting sustainable businesses with good intentions, improving you and your family’s health, and boosting your mental and physical health.
1. Use Natural Wallpaper and Eco Murals
Eco-murals are just one of many alternative options when it comes to wall decor. These items are printed using non-toxic, water-based latex. This means you’ll be breathing in better air.
Companies that create these items aim towards increasing sustainable forestry. Fewer chemicals and less destruction of our natural greenery and wildlife means a happier earth.
2. Indulge in Vintage Goods
Vintage items will never go out of style. Plus, they allow you to do the bare minimum when it comes to going eco-friendly — recycle. Typically, you can get vintage items for a low cost, too.
If you are one of those who prefer the distressed vintage look, you also have the option to peruse the internet on sites like Ebay and others to find what you like.
3. Add Houseplants to Your Home
House plants fight against pollutants and chemicals that linger as a result of other items in your home. Furthermore, they’re an inexpensive way to increase the level of oxygen in your space.
4. Repurpose Items from Your Home
Some of us are more DIY-inclined than others, but all of us feel a sense of pride when we create new items that we can actually use. Keep this in mind as you rummage through old stuff to give them new functions.
Repurposing means less trash and more imagination. Of course, the web is littered with ways you can recreate and redecorate various items lying around your home. This practice further adds personality to your space.
5. Go with Wood for Shelving
Wooden decor is as timeless as it is beautiful. Using reclaimed wood to decorate your home is also one of the easiest ways to be sustainable. There are a number of means to reuse wood.
6. Embrace Natural Fibers
There’s a growing appreciation for natural fibers as people become more conscious. Linen, sisal, raffia, cotton, bamboo, wool, and wicker are all great options for chairs, tables, beds, and other furniture pieces.
Natural fiber items aren’t just gorgeous, they also tend to be more durable and give better airflow. Furthermore, the production of these is much less detrimental to our planet.
7. Use Low Consumption Bulbs and Solar Panels
A long-touted way to be eco-friendly is by considering lighting carefully. Not only are low-energy bulbs cheaper, but they’re more sustainable and often less harmful to your eyesight.
Additionally, some Canadian companies push forth the use of solar panels while building new homes. One such company makes sure to include six solar panels in every home they build from 2019.
8. Use Non-Toxic Paint
These days, there’s no excuse for using chemical-ridden, synthetic paints. There are tons of eco-friendly options out there that come in an extensive variety of colors.
The old way would see you breathing in volatile organic compounds, or “VOCs,” which pose a risk to the environment as well as your family. These reportedly increase allergens, so it’s best to avoid them.
Final Thoughts
There are other ways to be eco-friendly when you’re working on decorating your home. You could donate, and help others practice repurposing and sustainability as well.
As much as you can, you should lose the plastic that’s in your home. Alternatives include glass and paper bags. Whatever you do, remember to reduce, reuse, and recycle.
More and more, environmental-friendliness when it comes to home decor is turning into a viable option from every angle. If you’re moving, make sure to keep your eco-friendly options in mind as you stay ahead of the curve.