It's mid-spring, and many of you are through with the makeover for your homes. But if you are still in the process and would love to have some tips to suit your sustainable lifestyle, here you go!
Three major sections of a home tidying session are decluttering, deep-cleaning and decorating. A little extra effort to make them all eco-friendly will prove highly beneficial to the earth and our health.
Decluttering - Embracing the Minimalist Life
We don't intend to buy mindlessly or make our house a mess by holding on to stuff we no longer use. But sometimes things get out of hand, and that's okay. We can eliminate all the unwanted clutter from homes in many eco-conscious ways.
Donating or Selling: Bundle up old clothes, toys, books, and any other household items in good condition that can be helpful to others. Take them to the nearest donation centre or thrift shop.
Repurposing: Get creative with items you no longer use by repurposing them into something new. For example, glass jars can be converted into storage containers (no, you don't need the fancy plastic containers Instagram influencers use), and worn-out clothing can be transformed into quilts. Repurposing also adds a unique touch to your home decor.
Disposing of Hazardous Waste Responsibly: Properly dispose of hazardous items such as batteries, electronics, and expired medications by taking them to designated recycling or disposal centres. Avoid throwing them in the bin, as this is harmful to the environment and risks human and animal health.
Compost Organic Waste: Instead of discarding food and yard waste, start a compost pile or use a composting bin. Composting is a great way to reduce waste and add nutrients to your garden.
Deep-cleaning - Sweat, scrub and shine
We all clean our homes regularly, but deep cleaning is an entirely different ball game. It is inevitable to feel, 'Why did I think this was a good idea?' when you are right in the middle of the cleaning session. After spending hours cleaning, we would have missed a spot (or sometimes even an entire room). So here are some smart and sustainable tips to simplify your cleaning process as much as possible.
Natural Cleaning Products: Ditch those chemical-loaded store-bought cleaners and depend on organic ingredients to get your job done. For example,
- To remove stains from countertops, apply a thick baking soda paste, wait 15 minutes and wash off.
- Most of your cleaning requirements, including dirty bathrooms, floors, dishwashers, and washing machines, can be solved with using undiluted vinegar.
- To purify the air in your home, mix any essential oil or lemon juice in water and spray it frequently.
Steam Cleaning: To avoid harsh chemicals, use a steam cleaner for your carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces. Steam cleaning uses hot water vapour to disinfect and remove dirt and grime.
Reusable Cleaning Cloths: Use reusable cleaning cloths made from microfiber or natural fibres instead of using paper towels. These clothes are more durable, absorbent, and eco-friendly than single-use paper towels.
Energy-Efficient Cleaning Appliances: When purchasing cleaning appliances such as vacuum cleaners and washing machines, choose energy-efficient models that consume less electricity and water. Go for appliances that meet strict energy efficiency standards (look for Energy Star ratings)
Decorating - An Extension of Your Personality
Now comes the fun part of your spring spruce-up—decorating! We understand that each person's taste is very different, and it is impossible to give generalised decor ideas. So, we are here to tell you about the eco-friendly choices you can make while revamping your home.
Sustainable Materials: The first step towards a sustainable home is Reducing the use of plastics as much as possible. Choose furniture and decor made of sustainable materials like reclaimed wood, recycled glass, and bamboo. These materials are eco-friendly and add an aesthetic appeal and beauty to your space.
Natural Fabrics and Textiles: For your upholstery, curtains, and bedding, opt for natural fabrics and textiles such as organic cotton, linen, and hemp. These materials are breathable, eco-friendly, and perfect for creating a light, airy springtime atmosphere.
Low-VOC Paints: When painting your walls or furniture, choose low-VOC (volatile organic compound) or zero-VOC paints to minimise indoor air pollution and promote a healthier home environment. These paints are eco-friendly and come in various colours to suit your spring decor scheme.
Bring the Outdoors Inside: Incorporate natural elements such as potted plants, fresh flowers, and branches into your decor to add a breath of fresh air to your home. They improve air quality and add texture and visual interest to your space.
Living an earth-friendly life is a fulfilling experience, and there are many ways of doing it. But we believe everything good begins at home. Sustainable living is also an ever-evolving process. Take inspiration from the countless online resources and real-world eco-warriors and build an environment-conscious life (and home) for yourself.