As concerns for the environment increase, everyone is being encouraged to do their part, from walking more, to using single-use plastics less. But did you know there are ways you can make your home eco-friendlier, whilst also showcasing your individual style? Here are our top tips to help you create an eco-friendly design-inspired home.
Use eco-paint
A simple way for your home to become eco-friendly is to switch paints. Most paints contain high levels of volatile organic compounds, or VOCs for short and are released while painting – and up to five years after. Thanks to the eco-friendly movement gaining momentum, there are plenty of brands now creating environmentally friendly paints in a variety of colours, so you can still show your style.
Upcycle furniture
Upcycling furniture is perhaps the most well-known way to become eco-friendly. Whether you upcycle furniture you already own, or head to a charity or second-hand shop. Repurposing furniture is a great way to put your personal stamp on something. A whole piece can be transformed with a lick of chalk-paint and change of handles. And when you want to redecorate, you can start the whole process again.
Stick to natural materials
When you do buy new furniture, stick to natural, sustainable materials like wood. Wooden furniture is not only eco-friendly compared with mass-produced plastic items, but blends seamlessly with any décor, and helps illicit a feeling of natural calm. Soften the look with wool throws, hessian rugs and fabric wall hangings.
Bring nature inside
When you introduce house plants into the home, not only do they look good, but they are reputed to improve air quality too. Bamboo plants look great in offices or rooms with garden views, whilst peace lillies look lovely in living rooms. For an indulgent spa experience in your home, place eucalyptus in your bathroom, and allow the steam from the hot water to fill the air with its gentle aroma.
Let the sunshine
Air the house and save energy. Avoid using plug-in air fresheners to scent your home, and instead open windows and let in the fresh air. Turn down the heating and throw on an extra jumper. The fresh air will help clear any stagnant smells, while the sunshine (or at least light) will help brighten your mood.
Even on duller days open the curtains wide and let in as much natural light. At night turn down the heating or off if possible, and even crack open a window.
Switch to LED
Switch your old CFL or incandescent light bulbs for LED ones. LED bulbs require far less wattage, and as such 95% of energy is converted to light, with only 5% wasted as heat. Not only will switching to LED bulbs be kinder on the environment, but it will be kinder on your pocket too, as LED bulbs last around 25 years.
If everyone makes small changes to their daily habits, a massive change can occur. It’s no secret the time to act is now, but the actions don’t need to be life-altering. You’ll also feel an overwhelming sense of achievement when you implement these small changes.
You must log in to post a comment.