BEDROOM
An eco-friendly bedroom can be designed and furnished to minimize its impact on the environment. This can include using:
- Natural and sustainable materials
- Energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and climate control, and
- A focus on reducing waste
It’s not neccessary or even realistic to make all the eco-friendly changes to your bedroom all at once! But when the time comes to replace or update items in your bedroom, consider some of the following ideas below.
Eco-Friendly Bedrooms
Update Your Light Bulbs
Use energy-efficient light bulbs, such as LED or CFL, which use less energy and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Unplug Electronics
Unplug electronics when not in use because they continue to consume power even when turned off.
Add a Recycling Container
Have recycling bins in the bedroom for paper, glass, plastic, and other materials, and try to reduce overall waste.
Consider Your Bedding
Use natural or organic bedding, such as cotton or bamboo, which are grown without the use of pesticides or synthetic fertilizers.
Invest in an Eco-Friendly Mattress
Eco-friendly mattresses are typically made from natural or organic materials, such as cotton, wool, latex, or bamboo. They are often free of synthetic chemicals and pesticides, and may be biodegradable or recyclable.
Some eco-friendly mattresses are also made from recycled materials, such as old foam or plastic bottles, which helps to reduce waste and conserve resources.
Automate Climate Contol
Use a programmable thermostat to control your room temperature and save energy when you are not at home.
Shop Sustainable Furniture
Buy eco-friendly furniture made from sustainable materials, such as reclaimed wood or bamboo.
Use Passive Lighting
Use natural light during the day instead of artificial light. Open curtains and blinds to let in natural light and reduce the need for electric lighting.
Wash Bedding with an Eco-Friendly Detergent
Standard detergents often contain formaldehyde, phthalates, chlorine, and artificial colors that can get into the water supply, possibly leading to water pollution. These chemicals can also leave a residue on clothing and bedding that your skin can absorb.
The FDA doesn’t regulate the terms “natural” and “organic” on product labels but you can still shop for detergents made from 100 percent plant-based formulas.