Shades of Chartreuse - Freshly Green Tips
Thinking about going green around the house? Not sure where to begin? The bathroom is the perfect place to start this process. It is small enough to make some big changes in a practical, affordable way.
Here are five easy, cost effective ways to green your bathroom today:
#1. Replace your regular toilet tissue with recycled bathroom tissue. When you are shopping, also look for recycled facial tissue. Since you have to buy these items regularly, this is a fast and eco-friendly fix.
#2. Throw out the aerosol air fresheners. Many contain harmful chemicals that end up in your lungs and on your skin. Instead, find space to bring in plants that will clean the air for you. Well established plants that stay in the bathroom will be on duty 24/7. Note: If you have pets, be sure to read about the plant before buying (just in case your furry friend decides to snack on a few leaves).
#3. Whether you are taking a long hot bath or ridding the bathroom of odors, a candle can be helpful. Just be sure it is as green a candle as possible. Bathrooms are confined spaces and you are breathing in whatever you are burning; from now on, only buy natural organic wax candles with non-metal wicks. Not sure where to find one at a reasonable price? Check out Blue Moon Candles and make it your new source for candles that glow greener. Bonus: The intense fragrances are fabulous - read more about these candles and a Here We Are reader's terrific experience which she shared in our comments section!
#4. Set your dishwasher for the early morning before everyone is awake. Try to coordinate the end of the wash cycle with the start of the first shower. This may take a few tries, but it will save you $$ in energy bills because the water is already hot...no need to run the shower for minutes heating the water.
If you have to run the water, then collect it in a handled bowl. What? Bail water? It only takes a little bit of effort, but when you see how much clean water you collect to re-purpose, it will become a habit. Your houseplants and garden will thank you. Tip: I use bowls similar to these from Williams-Sonoma that are non-breakable with a lip and a handle. I pour the water into my watering can while I am in the bathroom so there is no spillage around the house.
#5. Accessorize green from today forward. When shopping for towels, there are many green options to explore from bamboo to organic cotton. Replace paper cups with non-breakable ones that can be washed in the dishwasher (look for BPA-free products). Also, look for bamboo bathroom items like tissue box covers, wastepaper baskets, soap dispensers, etc. Bonus: Bamboo is an abundant, renewable resource; items made from it are long lasting and anti-microbial.
No matter the brand or source, this is a better way to spend your money - the more eco-friendly products sold, the more that will come to market.
It's easy to go green in your bathroom using these five tips. Do you have any tips to add? Share them in our comments section - every little bit of knowledge helps!
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