Your home sees a lot of wear and tear, so it’s inevitable you’ll need to redecorate now and then. These days it’s not just about colours and styles though. Many of us are looking for ways to lessen the harmful impact we humans are having on our environment. That means looking at our home décor in a completely different way.
Here are some eco-friendly ideas to create a healthier and more sustainable home for your family.
How Toxic Is Your Paint?
A fresh coat of paint is a quick and easy way to transform the look and feel of any room. Unfortunately, most well-known brands are full of harmful, toxic substances like solvents and VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which give off dangerous gases. That’s why a freshly painted room is so smelly and can trigger asthma attacks and allergic reactions.
Happily, you can now buy plant-based eco-friendly paint that’s free from chemicals and plastics. Some brands are compostable and vegan, and they don’t have the overpowering smell or the toxic after-effects of traditional house paint.
Beautiful Natural Flooring
Traditional carpets also give off unhealthy gases thanks to their synthetic fibres, adhesives and plastic backing – all of which contain nasty chemicals. Instead, have a look at carpets made with natural materials. Wool and even goat hair carpets are available which are wonderfully soft, warm and hardwearing.
For a different and more eco-friendly friendly approach, you could consider carpets made from recycled plastic, tyres or fishing nets. Alternatively, natural, sustainably produced wood or stone flooring is tough and good-looking.
Houseplants for Top Quality Air
Nothing beats a few houseplants for improving the atmosphere, literally and metaphorically. Plants are natural purifiers as they convert carbon dioxide into oxygen. They’re also natural humidifiers as they release moisture, which helps to keep coughs, colds and dry skin at bay.
Caring for your plants or simply having lovely natural things around your home is thought to have a wonderfully soothing effect – a perfect way to help you unwind and de-stress.
Recycle and Repurpose
You can find all sorts of bits and bobs at car boot sales, second-hand shops, auctions and online sites such as Facebook marketplace. Furniture, lamps, paintings and rugs can all be reused, and you’d be surprised at how much stuff gets thrown away in good condition.
Even if it’s a little tatty, a good clean and a coat of eco paint may be all that’s needed to perk things up. Add your own style with some cushions and some personal knick-knacks and you’ve got a whole new look for your room.
If you’re a bit more adventurous you can repurpose old items into something new. Old wooden pallets and crates can be turned into tables, shelves or cupboards, glass jars and bottles can be made into lamps.
Most Household Products Are Bad for Your Health
Many items we use daily are made with toxic ingredients. Shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, toilet paper, washing-up liquid, laundry detergent – they’re all made with potentially harmful substances.
Happily, many companies now offer eco-friendly friendly household and personal products made with natural, biodegradable ingredients. These won’t set off allergic reactions, cause respiratory issues or sit around for years in a landfill site.
Stop Wasting Energy with New Windows and Doors
Modern double-glazed windows and doors keep you warm in winter (and cool in summer) and that’s good for your energy bills. They’ll last for years, and the frames can be recycled, whether you chose uPVC, aluminium or wood.
The good folk at The Window Centre have all the advice you need. Call us today