Sustainable decor is not only good for the planet, it is also good for you, with fewer toxins invading your space.
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are just some of the compounds that can enter your space through off-gassing from paints, stains, caulks, and adhesives. Here is how to make your space better this Earth Day.
Buy Smarter
Flatpack furniture you build yourself might seem like the way to save some clams when you're furniture shopping, but in the long run, it will only cost you more. You get what you pay for. This furniture is not built to last.
It is built and designed for the now, which is why it is often so on-trend. These pieces are quick to produce. Quick to make and quick to break.
By investing in classic pieces that are well built, you will get many more years out of your purchase. In the long run, you will save money. By not discarding your furniture so often, you will save not only some cheddar but also the planet. We have plenty of options that meet this need.
Reupholster Before You Replace
The great thing about furniture made to last is that it has the bones for many many lives. These pieces are like cats. When you want a refresh on your space, simply reupholster, and your home decor is all brand new!
There are a few different options here. You can, if you have the cash, do a full professional reupholster. The benefit here is that it is the same experience as your current piece. If funds are an issue, there are many stylish and eco-friendly slipcovers to choose from these days.
Slipcovers are much more affordable than a full reupholster, and you can change them up as often as you like. However, there are pitfalls. The slipcovers can move around a lot, making the experience less than optimal.
Shop Secondhand
In the same vein as slipcovers, if you are looking to be eco-friendly but also wallet-friendly, secondhand furniture is an excellent choice for adding new pieces to your home.
This furniture still exists today because, as mentioned above, these items are built to last. With the right piece of secondhand furniture and a little bit of care, they can serve you as long as a new piece would. You can reupholster them if need be (or use slipcovers). Applying a modern finish, stain, or even painting them your favorite color, is another way to give them some new life.
Add Some Vegetation
Nothing quite says Earth Day like plants, so why not add a few new houseplants to your decor? Whether they are hanging from the window, set atop a table, or standing tall in the corner, these living sculptures are a strong sign of sustainability.
Plus, they are more than just a pretty piece of decor. Houseplants can help filter out airborne toxins, add humidity to heated rooms, release oxygen, and enhance the overall air quality in any space. If you don't have a green thumb, don't worry! There are houseplants for every level. Maybe start with a cactus. If you have pets, make sure your plant choice is furbaby-friendly.
Eco-Friendly Walls
When it comes to sprucing up your surroundings at home, that usually means painting a wall or two. Choosing a paint color can be a difficult task. If you hate making decisions, maybe opt for a wall of plants. You'll get all of the benefits listed above: cleaner air, more oxygen, etc. Plus, it is a very striking design.
If you are without a green thumb, you may have to stick to a fresh coat of paint. Let's be honest, a wall of cactuses sounds like a bad situation just waiting to happen. Choose zero- or low-VOC-emission paints, stains, caulks, and adhesives. Volatile organic compounds can off-gas and make your space toxic.
These are just a few ways you can add sustainability to your home design that will last for a lifetime. From furniture that is made to last, to better air quality from plants, this is how you celebrate Earth Day! If you need help with your furniture shopping, give our experts a call!