Eating well, exercising and getting a solid amount of sleep are all great ways to keep your body healthy. But what about the health of your home? These days making the effort to increase your green practices not only benefits yourself, but also the wellbeing of those around you. Updating your home environment is a great first step. Check out our tips below for a few simple practices to help you reach your sustainable goals.
Ditch the Plastics
Making the commitment to give up plastic is big! Luckily, it’s not one you must do all at once. Even the smallest change can still make a measurable difference. Start by eliminating single-use items. Invest in a reusable thermos or coffee mug, swap out food storage containers for sleek glass or silicone, and stock up on canvas grocery bags. When it comes to toiletries, watch out for sneaky places where plastics can hide. Face wash, hand sanitizer and toothpaste often rely on tiny beads called microplastics to act as exfoliators; which unfortunately can’t be filtered out by water treatment plants. Instead, choose healthy biodegradable options that keeps you and our marine life safe.
Invest in Sustainability
From furniture to flooring, making choices for your home is the perfect time to pick quality materials. In lieu of disposable or fast-fix options think long-term by sourcing eco-friendly products that combine beauty and sustainability. Choose items that will only gain character as they age, like handwoven rugs, textural throws and vintage pieces. Instead of thinking seasonally choose something classic that will weather the years with grace. We love The Steadfast Collection for its timeless look and authentic tumble worn finish. Available in both hickory and hard maple, these materials – admired for their dense grain and durability – will ensure your floors will last for decades to come. With so many sustainable options, there’s no need to sacrifice style for longevity.
Embrace the Light
Natural light has long been prized by artists and interior designers alike for its unique ability to shape a space. With shadow and form evolving throughout the day, letting in sunlight is a great eco-friendly way to illuminate your home. Reducing energy use during the day is simple enough but what happens after sunset? With modern LEDs there’s no need to go dark. Using 90% less energy than a traditional incandescent bulb, LEDs have become more resilient and resilient than ever before. If candles are more your style, there are plenty of green options to light the way. Choose selections that utilize natural soy or beeswax, cotton wicks and fragrance derived from essential oils for a green way to invigorate the space.
Upgrade Your Appliances
According to Energy Star statistics, home appliances like refrigerators, laundry machines and dishwashers account for more than 13% of household energy costs. By swapping them out for newer models, homeowners not only save electricity but can count on cutting overall water use almost in half. Whether your home is getting a mini-makeover or a full overhaul, it’s never too soon for an appliance update.
Enhance with Plants
Like natural sunlight, indoor plants also serve up mood boosting properties. Acting as natural filtration systems they clean the air and add moisture back into the space. Research has proven that plants increase creativity, attentiveness and overall contentment, no matter what the species. Varieties that thrive in low light include the structural snake plant, creeping pothos, delicate maidenhair fern and flat paddled pilea. For brighter areas, ponytail palms, chubby jade plants and aloes all will thrive.
With a few simple changes, your home will soon become your wellness sanctuary. Let us know how these tips have worked for you.