Over the years, more people have increasingly understood the importance of creating an eco-friendly environment and going green both at home and within office spaces. A 2020 report stated that 76% of American consumers were willing to pay more for eco-friendly home furnishings. For those looking to upgrade their home interiors, it’s not a bad idea to lean towards eco-friendly decor and themes. On that note, here are five ways to add a touch of sustainability to your home decor.
- Use eco-friendly paints and finishes
The truth about paint is, most notable brands utilize more than just a little of volatile organic compounds. These VOCs are petroleum-based solvents that can cause respiratory problems when inhaled. It is the main reason some paint manufacturers recommend ventilating freshly painted rooms to help get rid of the harmful gases. Fortunately, there are healthier and eco-friendly paint options.
Some people assume that eco-friendly paints and finishes do not come in a wide color range. On the contrary, paint manufacturers have made it their mission to supply all hues people may need because of growing demand. Therefore, there is nothing to worry about whether you’re choosing cool, warm, or neutral shades for your indoor décor. Eco-friendly paints contain more water than petroleum-based solvents.
2. Opt for FSC certified wood
For starters, not all wooden furniture is rated the same. Indeed, there is so much talk about using wood and wooden-based materials for your home décor. However, some certified wood products can make better options for your interior design. A typical example is FSC certified wood.
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification ensures that any timber from forests is carried out under safe environmental, social, and economic standards. In other words, any furniture you buy with the FSC logo automatically means your choice of wood comes from an even more environmentally-friendly source. It also means it carries more ‘green’ value than standard wooden furniture.
3. Choose ‘green’ candles
With Christmas around the corner, many households are likely to light up candles to create ambiance. Maybe you’re looking at cost and prefer to buy cheaper-priced candles. Indeed, that can be easy on the pocket but definitely not so much for the environment and your indoor air. Just like point two, candles can contain VOCs too.
Did you know that some candles contain metal in the wick? It is what helps the flame to burn upright. Those are harmful to the environment. You can spare yourself the headache by choosing eco-friendly candles made from soy or beeswax. These ones are equally scented with safe essential oils that diffuse in your home, creating a lasting fragrance.
4. Use real indoor plants and not artificial ones
Naturally, plants absorb carbon dioxide and ‘exhale’ oxygen. This is particularly useful for humans and pets. Having real indoor plants in the home as part of your décor beautifies your space and increases clean air levels in your home. However, some people opt for artificial flowers probably as a way to avoid the maintenance tasks that come with natural plants.
If this is you, it helps to know that not all indoor plants are high maintenance. Bromeliads, jade, cactus, philodendron are examples of low-maintenance houseplants. They do not require daily watering and can be ideal choices for a busy home. As more people join the eco-friendly bandwagon, it becomes easier to save the environment.
5. Buy interior décor made from recycled or sustainable materials
Thankfully, there is a wide range of sustainable materials to choose from for your interior décor. Bamboo, cork, rattan, seashells, recycled glass are a few examples to utilize if you’re serious about creating an eco-friendly design theme. The exciting part about this is, it is easy to find interior décor made from sustainable materials. With an online search, you will come across several ecommerce stores specifically into that line of business.
If you’re still wondering at this point, what you can do, please try these ideas. For your flooring, you can use real linoleum or cork. Wooden curtain rods are also excellent choices for your indoor windows décor. Meanwhile, you can keep a recycled glass filled with seashells on your center table to add an extra touch of nature to your room.
Creating an eco-friendly décor for your home can be easier to maintain and convenient than originally thought. Moreover, they can be affordable if you know where to look and have an idea of what to buy. Indeed, the choice rests with you.
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