Have you noticed the extra heat this summer? Well, thatâs probably because of climate change. Likewise itâs not only the heat; storms are also getting stronger. Evidence also presents that itâs just going to get a lot worse. Even more, if we donât do our part as a responsible citizen, things are not looking good for us. So, even in our small ways, letâs try to be kinder to Mother Earth, letâs start by having an eco-friendly household.
What is an Eco-Friendly Household?
Having an eco-friendly household doesnât equate to going off the grid and refusing modern technologies (though thatâs also an option, kidding!). So what exactly is an eco-friendly household? Eco-friendly literally means earth-friendly or not harmful to the environment, it also pertains to the practice of being conscious in our carbon footprint or as simple as trash. With that said, it simply means a household that proactively finds and does ways to help the environment.
9 Tips for an Eco-Friendly Household
Ready to make some changes in your household? Here are some easy and inexpensive ways to create an eco-friendly household:
The easiest way you can be more friendly to Mother Earth is by reducing your power consumption. Unplug unused electronic devices such as microwave, tv or washing machine. Alternatively, you can plug your appliances in a power strip with a switch which you can just switch off when youâre not using your appliances.
12-Outlet Pivot-Plug Power Strip Surge Protector – $26.03
Design Your Home
If youâre doing some renovation or just building your dream home, design it to be eco-friendly. Instead of small windows, opt for big windows, this way you have more natural light coming in and you wonât need a lot of lights. Open space is good for ventilation and air.
Say No to Plastic
Eliminate or lessen your use of plastics. Instead of using plastic for your groceries, bring your own canvas bag. Use metal straws or utensils, and reuse containers. If you love water, remember to bring your own jug or tumbler.
7 Pieces Flatware Set – $10.99
Bamboo Utensils – $12.99
Cloth Napkins
Having a barbecue party in your home? Thinking about disposable napkins? Replace them with cloth napkins. Theyâre durable and reusable. Another plus is that itâll make your barbecue party legit.
Cotton Craft Napkins – $16.49
Set Up a Mini-Garden
Gardening is not everyoneâs cup of tea, it can be intimidating and even time-consuming but it is also rewarding. Plant cherry tomatoes, herbs (basil, rosemary, thyme, parsley) rather than buying from your grocery. It can save you money and also a good task to teach your children.
Garden Tools Set – $20.86
Replace Your Lights
We talked about conserving energy however, itâs really unavoidable to use electricity. With that said, start with lights. Use LED or CFL rather than the traditional incandescent bulbs. These type of bulbs are more efficient and cost-saving.
Philips LED Non-Dimmable A19 Frosted Light Bulb – $22.22
Do Routine Maintenance
Make sure everythingâs working alright, do routine maintenance on your laundry machine, refrigerator, and air conditioning unit. Having faulty appliances are inefficient and can unintentionally hog more power.
Hang Clothes
Harness the heat of the sun to dry your clothes instead of drying them in your dryer which consumes energy. Set up a clothesline in your backyard and hang your wet laundry. With the heat today, your clothes will be dry in just a few hours.
Foldable Drying Rack – $23.98
Think About Solar
If youâre really serious about being a sustainable household, think about installing solar panels in your home. While they may be inexpensive, itâll save you a lot of money in the long run. Furthermore, it helps with the environment.
12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Panel – $154.55
These are some ways you can create an eco-friendly household. What changes are you making help the environment? Share them below!
What do you think?