Hello & Happy Friday. I hope your plans for the weekend will take you outdoors to celebrate Earth Day. And when you head back inside, here are a few tips to make your spaces a little more green.
And if you have any tips you have in place at home already, please share them with us!
Go With Organic Cotton
Millions of tons of pesticides are used every year on cotton crops. And not just any kind of pesticides, some of the most toxic chemicals in the world. So the reasons for going organic seem plentiful: it looks good, it feels good, it’s much healthier for you because you are not dealing with toxins and it’s good for the planet because it’s one less instance where pesticides are being used.
organic pin tuck bedding, west elm | waves organic pillow, bird mafia | screen printed towel, oh little rabbit
Use Window Treatments for Climate Control
We have lined panels in our living room. The main reason behind the lining is actually to darken the room when the curtains are drawn. But beyond that, the panels do a great job at blocking drafts during the Winter months. In the Summertime, when the sun is at it’s strongest, I draw the panels to keep the area cooler, conserving energy and saving money.
riviera stripe drape w/ blackout liner | pottery barn
Go Old School With Your (Smaller) Appliances
Switching out your electric appliances for energy efficient one is not only good for the planet, but can also save you money in the long run (and who couldn’t use an extra $150 for getting a nicer fridge). But, if changing out larger appliances is not an option, start smaller.
good grips egg beater, oxo | hand cranked paper shredder | hand reel mower, american
Some Online Resources
Cute mason jar towel!
I wish I could celebrate Earth Day outdoors but we are have the WORST weather! I am trying to do my bit for the environment though, I love organic cotton and we are looking into buying a composter from our local council. Every little helps!
We have lined shades as well. Really helps with keeping the heat in/out.
Tomorrow I want to do a bike tour organized by the Green Festival in NY. Best thing it’s free! At least that’s what I’ve been told 😉
Have a great weekend!
@Meghan Totally agree- every little bit helps. Hope your weather improves soon
@Nina That sounds like a lot of fun- enjoy!
Gar, I really need some window treatments. Right now, we just have the vertical blinds that came with the apartment and they’re hideous!
You’ve just moved. So my advice would be to live in your new space for a while before changing things up. That’ll give you time to really know what it is you want or what it is that will work 😉
I totally pull the blinds down in the summer and as soon as it gets dark in the winter. I really helps keep the heat out {or in} and you don’t have to use the AC {mine is broken so that good}. I wish I lived in one place long enough to make lined draperies worth it, I might just line my own.
Great tips. I am a great one for recycling and upcycling, taking my own shopping bags everywhere, switching lights off everywhere I go…. : )
It’s difficult to find organic cotton clothes from stores but I’ve found one place that sells organic cotton underwear and those are not even expensive. I also try to recycle everything.
Love that lawn mower. So cute!
Okay, that waves pillow is the bomb dot com! But seriously, your blog is so thoughtful. I’m definitely a huge recycler and a “do-not-ever-litter” person, and I studied sustainable design when I was in school, so I agree with your ideas. Bravo! I’m guilty of using energy-sucking things like my shredder, though. I still have a way to go to be truly sustainable! Thank you for the tips and insight!
Hey Danie- thanks for stopping by and the lovely comments- welcome to homestilo!