It’s no secret that our planet is in trouble. We’re seeing the effects of climate change every day, and it’s only going to get worse if we don’t take action. One way we can help is by making small changes in our own lives, like choosing eco-friendly furnishings. This refers to our choice of furniture, fittings, and other decorative accessories such as carpets and curtains.
In this article, we’ll discuss some tips for furnishing your home in an environmentally-friendly way.
Choose Faux Fur Not Real Fur
The inhumane treatment of animals is the main concern when it comes to real fur. Animals are routinely killed in barbaric ways and sometimes they’re even skinned alive – and all in the name of fashion. Faux fur, on the other hand, is made from polyester and other synthetic materials. It’s a fabric that looks and feels like real fur but doesn’t involve any actual animals. Not only is it cruelty-free, but it’s also environmentally friendly since it doesn’t require the use of harmful chemicals and pesticides.
Faux fur is also a lot more affordable than real fur. If you want something furry to the touch check out faux fur cushions online and search by space, color, design, size, or material. You can also read reviews, product descriptions, photos, and prices.
Be Wise Over Your Furniture
When you’re out shopping for new furniture, sustainable materials should be your number one priority. Materials such as bamboo, wool, linen, and organic cotton are all excellent choices that’ll help reduce your carbon footprint. In addition to being eco-friendly, these materials are also incredibly durable.
Another great way to be eco-friendly with your furniture is to buy used pieces and refinish them yourself. This is a great way to save money and get exactly the piece of furniture you want. Plus, it’s really satisfying to take something old and make it new again. You may also enjoy shopping for vintage pieces that feature lots of taste and style. Finally, recycle or donate any old furniture you no longer need so that it doesn’t end up in a landfill.
Be Wise Over Your Bedding, Curtains, And Rugs
Choosing these can be a daunting task because there are so many different materials, textures, and colors. And with each new season, there are always new trends to consider. Natural fibers like cotton and linen are always a good choice because they’re breathable and durable. Since they’re made from natural materials, they’re much better for the environment than synthetic fibers (e.g. polyester or nylon).
Another thing to consider is the dyes used on bedding, curtains, and rugs. Opt for natural dyes whenever possible, as they’re less likely to contain harmful chemicals. If you do choose synthetic dyes, make sure they’re low-VOC or no-VOC. Avoid anything that needs to be dry cleaned, as the chemicals used in the process can be damaging to both the environment and your health. Stick with items that can be easily washed at home using eco-friendly detergents.
Install Energy-Efficient Appliances
Energy-efficient appliances use less electricity and water, making them better for the environment. This means reduced carbon emissions and lower energy bills. Even if they’re more expensive to buy, they’ll save you money in the long run. Some examples include:
- White goods such as washing machines, driers, dishwashers, fridges, and freezers
- Low-flow toilets and showerheads
When shopping, look for the Energy Star label because this will ensure that your purchase is eco-friendly. You can also reduce your environmental impact by unplugging appliances when they’re not in use. Even if they’re turned off, appliances still use electricity if they’re plugged into an outlet.
Use Energy-Efficient Lighting
Traditional incandescent bulbs are very inefficient, wasting a lot of energy in the form of heat. Compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs) and light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs) use much less energy, which not only saves you money on your power bill but also reduces your carbon footprint. You can find CFLs and LEDs at most hardware stores or online retailers.
Another great way to save energy and go green is to invest in some solar-powered lights for your home. Solar lights are powered by the sun, so they don’t require any electricity at all. And if you have the budget for it, why not install some solar panels so you can save money on your utility bills?
As you can see, there are lots of ways you can furnish your home in an eco-friendly way. By doing your bit you’ll be enhancing your home and benefiting the environment. In turn, you’ll be safeguarding the future lives of your kids and grandkids.
