5 Simple Habits for a Greener Home

Contrary to popular belief, having a sustainable home isn't just about solar panels and temperature-regulating walls. While these big ticket changes are a plus, it takes a huge sum of money to get it done and some homeowners don't have the luxury for these upgrades. No need to worry, there are a lot of other ways to help save the environment—after all, any amount of effort counts, right? Here's a list of must-dos you can start practicing at home:  

1. Choose furniture made from sustainable wood. 

When shopping for a new bed frame or a desk, ask the store assistants to show you pieces that are made from sustainably harvested wood. Supporting companies that vow to protect the environment by replanting trees is far better than going for a mass-produced brand. 

2. Replace paper towels with reusable wipes.

A lot of homeowners are guilty of this habit: using paper towels instead of washcloths when cleaning up spills to avoid going through the trouble of washing them. Kick your tree-killing habit by making your own reusable wipes—it's eco-friendly, it saves you money and it's free of chemicals, too! 

DIY: Antibacterial Wipes

3. Switch to eco-friendly cleaning products. 

From bleach to toilet cleaners and detergent, it's safe to say that your cleaning supplies contain a ton of chemicals that pose harmful health threats. Consider going for organic alternatives that are just as powerful but don't have flux ingredients—local brands such as Messy Bessy and Human Nature have a lot options you can choose from. 

READ: 5 Homemade Cleaning Solutions

4. Turn trash into compost.

Believe it or not, anyone can do composting. It is an easy process that takes wilting plants and kitchen waste, and converts it into fertilizer for your garden. The best part? Aside from saving you money for plant food, it reduces the amount of garbage that goes to the landfills. 

Click here for a step-by-step guide.  

5. Conserve water.

A lot of energy is required to pump water from rivers or lakes into our homes so it is of vital importance that we reduce our consumption in order to help lessen carbon footprint. You don't have to make grand gestures, anyway—it could be as simple as taking shorter showers, fixing leaking pipes immediately and collecting rainwater to water your lawn.

READ: 5 Ways to Conserve Water at Home