Some Things to Make your Home a Little Greener
Indoor plants: Some recent studies (including one from NASA) have shown that particular plants can help to improve your indoor air quality. Bamboo palm, Chinese evergreen, Gerbera daisies, English ivy and Peace lilies are among the list of beneficial houseplants.
Window coverings: Try using natural materials and heat reflecting window treatments. Some eco-friendly sustainable window coverings include those manufactured from high quality rapidly renewable grasses, reeds, bamboo, hemp or other cellulose fibers. When you replace curtains or blinds, keep these green choices in mind.
Low-Flow fixtures: Replace your toilets with low-flow (1.6 gallon) and dual flush toilets, and put low-flow faucets throughout your home. Just replacing a shower head can save from 3 to 28 gallons of water for a 5 minute shower!
Hot water heaters: Go with solar water systems or tankless, on-demand water heaters. The solar heaters use the sun so your energy costs are non-existent, and the tankless heaters only heat water when you need it, removing the constant energy loss associated with a standard hot water heater. Plus, you never run out of hot water.
Mattress: Naturally flame retardant wool and cotton mattresses and futons used with organic linens allow for air circulation and a healthier sleep environment. Take a look at some of the offerings the next time you're in the market for a new mattress.
Lighting: Increase natural light (let the sunshine in!), and make the switch to compact fluorescent bulbs and energy star fixtures.
Furniture: Green furniture is getting easier to find everyday. Sustainably-grown solid wood furniture with non-toxic finishes, organic fabrics and natural cushioning materials are kinder to the environment and to the health of your family, too.
Flooring: Use natural fiber area rugs in combination with non-toxic flooring materials.
Appliances: As your appliances age, replace them with Energy Star rated models. You'll be helping to save the planet, cutting your energy bills, and sometimes even getting a tax credit.
Cleaning products: The aisles of your local grocery store are filled with alternative cleaning supplies: non-toxic, fragrance-free products; and you can always look into old-fashioned (but effective) homemade methods.
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