Tuesday Tips - 5 Ways To Make Your Home More Eco-Friendly this Autumn

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We can all do our part for the environment by making small changes in our everyday lives. Making your home more eco-friendly is not only a sustainable option for the environment but also has the added bonus of saving you money (and potentially, exposure to harmful chemicals).

Fix Your Water Waste

Start off your season by taking the time to fix any leaks in your home to avoid any unnecessary water waste. If you haven’t already noticed a leak on your water bill, trust me, you will soon. Being proactive will save you money in the long run, while also avoiding waste. On the behavior side of water waste, you can also ensure you don’t leave the tap running when brushing your teeth or washing your face.

Install a Timed Meter

Installing a timed meter in your home means that the heating will turn on and off at a set time every day. This will not only stop your from wasting energy but will also stop you from wasting money. There is an ongoing myth that says it is more expensive to turn your heat off and on (the theory being that the heating up process takes more energy and uses more money), which has been debunked time and time again. Again, this means a timed meter is the best way to go for being environmental and money conscious. Try it for one month and see how your bill reflects this small lifestyle change!

Use Energy Efficient Light Bulbs

By switching the light bulbs in your home to the energy efficient option you will use less electricity and have to replace the bulbs less frequently which ultimately means you will also be saving money in the long run. Of course, the other option is to watch your light consumption all together. Are you remembering to turn off all lights in your home before leaving for the day (watch out for that pesky porch light)? Are you turning off lights when you leave a room? All of these actions add up.

Use Natural Cleaning Products

Using strong harmful chemicals in your home is not only bad for you in terms of your respiratory health, it is also bad for the environment. Using toxic cleaning products means these toxins are released into our airways during use and are then flushed into our water supply after use. Safer eco-friendly alternatives to conventional cleaning products include vinegar, citric acid and bicarbonate soda. Plus, you don’t have to worry about accidentally mixing chemicals to create something even more harmful.

Include Air Filtering Plants

Having plants in your home will help purify the air you breathe and detoxify any airborne toxins, dust and germs. Some of the best purifying house plants are the spider plant, aloe vera and the Chinese evergreen. Plus, you can’t deny that having a ton of gorgeous plants around boosts your home’s decor AND your mood.