5 Small Changes to Make Your Home More Eco-Friendly
The fight against global warming and climate change requires a united front. But, we understand that not everyone has the budget to buy equipment dedicated to being eco-friendly. Today, we’ll be covering 5 budget-friendly and simple ways to make your home more sustainable.
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You Don’t Always Have to Wash Clothes With Hot Water
Did you know that up to 90% of a washer’s energy goes into just heating the water (EnergyStar)? By switching to cold water, you’ll be able to reduce your carbon footprint, save money, and keep your clothes in better condition. That’s because cold water can actually reduce wrinkles, shrinkage, and fading when compared to hot water.With the power of modern detergents, cold water will still properly clean your clothes. Modern detergents are designed to activate in lower temperature settings as low as 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you do need a bit more of a kick (e.g. oil stains), the warm water setting is more than enough to meet all your needs. From an energy perspective, you’ll still be saving the world!
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Get A Recycling and Compost Bin
Grabbing these bins creates a win-win for the planet and for your lovely plants. By just having a recycling bin, it’ll remind you to recycle and make a routine out of it.A compost bin is not as common as a recycling bin — but it’s magic for anyone who actively needs compost. Or, if you just want to reduce your overall waste. Having a compost bin helps to transform waste into nutrient-rich soil that can keep your house plants and gardens thriving.
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Buy A Water Filter
Bottled water should really be public enemy number one. They’re bad for the environment, not necessarily cleaner than filtered water, and the cost adds up quickly. Consider buying a water filter (and reusable water bottle) to instantly level up your eco-friendly game. Water filters don’t have to be expensive either. A pitch filter still helps to promote sustainability, and there are quality ones that are available at double-digit prices.
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Go For LED Light Bulbs
Say goodbye to incandescent light bulbs and say hello to LED ones instead. Did you know that 90% of an incandescent light bulb’s electricity gets wasted on emitting heat (Conservergy)? That’s terribly inefficient and that excess heat may actually create hazards in your home (e.g. shattered glass, overheating). We get that LED light bulbs are a bit more expensive, but hear us out. LED light bulbs last longer and will reduce your electricity bill, lessen your carbon footprint, and save money in the long run.
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Use Natural Cleaning Supplies
Most cleaning supplies on the shelf contain harmful chemicals that are dangerous to both the environment and your health. Pre-packaged natural cleaning supplies are okay, but they are a bit too pricey for what they’re worth. So, that’s where DIY cleaners come into the picture. DIY cleaners are cheap, all-natural, don’t require plastic packaging, and you probably already have the ingredients in your home. Baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, and ground coffee beans will be your best friends in cleaning.
https://www.energystar.gov/products/laundry_best_practices