3 Easy Shifts You Can Make to Go Green at Home

Today it’s easy to shift to sustainable and eco-friendly products. Environmentally friendly products are readily available containing ingredients safer for the planet and safer for your family's health. 

Here are 3 simple steps that you can use to start protecting your family's health and help the planet at the same time... 

1. Reduce Waste with High-Quality Furnishings

When I specify client purchases for important things like furniture, I always start with very transparent companies about their operations. I lean toward companies who are part of the Sustainable Furnishings Council, like Room and Board. 

I have found that purchasing high-quality pieces from transparent companies makes a sound investment. 

Like so many of us have, I have been burned too many times by falling into the fast-and-cheap purchasing trap. Those products are made with inferior components, like particleboard and toxic glues. And I eventually have to replace the item anyway because it doesn't last, and I end up buying the expensive piece to replace it, anyway. 

So save yourself the cost of the fast-cheap-toxic item and just invest in quality craftsmanship with superior and sustainable parts in the first place!

2. Favor Toxin-Free Alternatives

Toxic chemicals cause long-term damage to people, and they also compromise the environment in producing and getting rid of them. However, there are excellent alternatives that are readily available. 

For example, I always look for "free and clear" ingredients like laundry detergent and cleaning spray. When shopping for cabinet manufacturers and furniture makers, I opt for companies that produce products made from genuine materials like solid woods, steel, and natural fibers in the fabrics. When materials are layered, like in plywood and veneers, that's where you find toxic chemicals with the adhesive and filler chemicals.

3. Improve Energy Efficiency Where Possible

I am big on ambiance. I keep low lights on throughout the house for ambient lighting and mood. But am I racking up the electricity bill? No. I use LED bulbs. Whenever I design a home remodel, I specify LED bulbs and dimmable switches. 

I also recommend connecting lights to a home monitoring system controlled by a smartphone app. Then, you can set up all of your ambient lights on timers to manage the intensity throughout the day and program them to turn off when you leave and at bedtime.

There are many options to save the planet and reduce toxic exposure to your family while even saving money. These changes don't have to happen overnight, but simple awareness while you’re involved with a remodel, can help bring peace of mind that you are protecting the environment for your family's health and the planet's health.

In addition, hiring a designer that is up-to-date on sustainable practices and technologies that offer green efficiencies will help you transition your home to a healthier place.

If you want support creating an environmentally-friendly home, we would love to help. Reach out for a consultation, and we can talk about how we can help you make sustainable changes to your home. 

Warmly,

Angie