As both the busyness of everyday life and the need to protect our environment grow, the need for green and sustainable solutions has become paramount. But it’s not always easy for a busy mum to keep on top of sustainability – especially when it comes to home decor solutions. Luckily, there are solutions out there. Let’s take a look at some eco-friendly home decor ideas that won’t take up too much of your valuable time.
Canvas prints
It’s quick and easy to order canvas prints of your favourite family moments and hang them on your interior walls. Responsible printing companies will source all the materials they use sustainably, and the printing process itself comes with a relatively low carbon footprint. What’s more, it doesn’t take long at all for companies to create canvas prints – usually no more than a few days between ordering, printing, and delivery. So, for low effort, low carbon footprint, and an even lower price, you can make a significant impact on your home decor with canvas prints.
Go Green with Houseplants
Integrating houseplants into your home décor adds an appealing natural aesthetic and promotes better air quality. Plants absorb carbon dioxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other pollutants, thus promoting a much healthier indoor environment. The benefits don’t stop there! Showing your kids how to take care of houseplants teaches them the importance of nature and responsibility. Choose low-maintenance plants like aloe vera, snake plants, or spider plants.
Reuse and Recycle
Repurposing and recycling old goods and materials rather than discarding them is a cardinal rule in eco-friendly décor. That old ladder? It can become a quirky display shelf for your books or collectables. Those discarded glass jars? They make lovely candle holders or storage for your craft supplies. Have a stash of wine corks? Turn them into an elegant wall art piece. The possibilities are endless, and a bit of creative recycling will help to keep your home feeling fresh and vibrant.
Sustainable Furniture Choices
When purchasing furniture, pay attention to the materials and manufacturing processes used in each piece’s creation. Opt for furniture made from reclaimed wood, bamboo, or certified sustainable sources. Additionally, consider pre-loved or second-hand furniture – it enhances the character of your home and reduces the demand for new production.
Energy-Efficient Lighting
Energy-efficient lighting is a smart move for eco-friendly décor – energy-efficient bulbs will only cut down your electricity bill and reduce your carbon footprint. Swap out your traditional bulbs for LED or compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). Don’t forget to utilise natural light as much as possible.
Eco-friendly Fabrics
Choosing eco-friendly fabrics can significantly impact your home’s sustainability factor. Hemp, organic cotton, linen, and bamboo are excellent choices. Remember to also opt for natural dyes to avoid unnecessary chemicals.
Promote Minimalism
Minimalism can go hand in hand with eco-friendly living. Opting for fewer but more cherished items lessens clutter and promotes an airy, relaxed vibe in your home. It also discourages unnecessary spending on items that may ultimately end up in a landfill.
Sure, being a busy mother trying to maintain an eco-friendly home may feel overwhelming at times. However, these simple changes and additions can make your home more sustainable, healthier, and even inspire your kids to care for the environment. Even better, these ideas provide you with practical and beautiful décor solutions that cater to both eco-sustainability and your sense of style.