We all want to try and make eco-friendly choices in our day-to-day living, from the household goods we buy, what car we drive and where our groceries come from, but with climate change a real problem, we want to take this further and instill more eco-friendly elements into every aspect of our lives, including the home we live in. With this in mind, looking long-term, we really should be moving away from our easy come easy go, throw-away society. Purchasing new rustic furniture for your home should be a long-term investment rather than a quick swap and quality furniture with heaps of character that will stand the test of time is a great environmentally-friendly choice.
In this blog, we look at how you can create an eco-friendly bedroom – so you can rest and relax with a completely clear conscience.
1. Choose reclaimed wood furniture
We know we would say that, but it’s true! Sustainable furniture is a great way to get the eco-ball rolling. There are so many options now, from a reclaimed solid wood bed frame to mango wood furniture. One of our top bedroom furniture picks is the British made Beam collection, handcrafted from reclaimed wood right here in the UK – it’s hugely popular with our eco-conscious customers.
2. Embrace eco paints
Opting for eco-friendly paints in the bedroom is also a great swap you can make. Many paints contain toxins that you really don’t want in your bedroom anyway, so choose low, or no, VOC paints. These are very readily available now from companies like Earthborn, Little Greene Paint Company and Cornish Milk Mineral Paint Co to name just a few. Another bonus is that using these paints is good for the planet as they are also produced with as little impact on the environment as possible.
3. Toxin-Free bedding and mattress
Did you know fabrics and mattresses can contain all sorts of toxins? To avoid falling into the toxin-trap, look for organic and fairtrade cotton bed linen which is sustainable and ethically made. There is also a vast choice of eco-friendly options when it comes to which mattress you choose, from a hemp, bamboo or cotton mattress to curl up on. We spend around 33 years of our lives sleeping so it’s important to make the right choice, right?
4. Electrics
For a better night’s sleep, many of us are aware of the benefits of keeping electrics in the bedroom to a minimum, especially phones and TVs. But if you prefer to keep them nearby, we can at least think sensibly and reduce the environmental impact they have by not leaving the TV on standby and unplugging any phone chargers when not in use. It’s also a good idea to switch to energy-saving bulbs as well, not only for the environment but you’ll be doing your pockets a big favour too.
5. Eco-friendly window dressings
Look online for companies that offer eco-friendly window blinds like Greenscreen Sea Tex who actually collect rubbish that washes up on the shoreline and turn it into stylish blinds. As with bedding textiles, look for organic curtains made from cotton, linen and hemp.
6. Bring in plants
We are great believers in having houseplants in every room!! So you should definitely have some in the bedroom – not only are they good for the air but they will lift your spirits too. Studies have shown that house plants can reduce depression, improve your mood and reduce stress levels. Place one on your nightstand so it’s one of the first things you see in the morning….much better for you than a mobile phone!
Share your ideas
Will you be using any of these eco tips in your bedroom? Share your ideas in the comment box below or join the conversation @modishliving.