When designing an eco-friendly bedroom, many of the changes you make will benefit both your health and the environment. Some suggestions take more effort than others, but they can be implemented gradually to match your needs and budget. Find out about the latest innovations for creating an eco-friendly bedroom that encourages relaxation and harmony with nature. From sustainable furniture to energy-efficient lighting, this article will guide you in making a peaceful, earth-conscious sleeping space.
Ways To Make Your Bedroom More Eco-Friendly
Learn simple yet effective tips to turn your bedroom into a green oasis. Choosing organic bedding, reducing energy use, and using natural materials can minimize your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.
1. Energy Efficient Lighting
Here’s an easy eco-friendly upgrade – use Energy Star approved light bulbs. Switching to Energy Star certified CFL and LED bulbs offers 75% or more in energy savings! A variety of shapes and sizes are available for any need, including recessed lighting, lamps, and fixtures. You can choose the light color using the Kelvin scale. Lower K means warmer light while higher K means cooler light. Visit energystar.gov for help selecting the best bulbs.
Mulberry Filled Silk Comforter
2. Bedding
Another easy green upgrade is sustainable, eco-friendly bedding. Look for natural, organic materials with Oeko-Tex certification. A cotton and silk duvet insert offers luxury sleep and is made of natural, breathable fabrics that regulate temperature. The premium long-strand mulberry silk fill is smooth, soft and body-hugging. The shell is breathable 100% cotton. OEKO-TEX® testing ensures it’s free of toxic chemicals. Organic cotton sheets, bamboo sheets or other eco-friendly bedding can create a relaxing, wholesome sleep space.
3. Paint
Repainting with zero VOC paint freshens up a room while ensuring toxic VOCs aren’t released into bedroom air. Many paint labels don’t account for VOC levels in store colorants, which can be high. Ask for no- or low-VOC colorants. Properly dispose of excess paint by donating or drying and recycling the can.
4. Furniture
Eco-friendly furniture options include antiques, secondhand finds, sustainably harvested wood pieces, and items made of bamboo, reclaimed materials and recycled metal. Choose durable, locally made items when possible. Visit sustainablefurnishings.org to find manufacturers.
5. Mattresses
Avoid mattresses containing:
- phthalates
- ozone depleters
- PBDEs
- mercury, lead and heavy metals
- formaldehyde
Choose options with non-toxic fire barriers like Amerisleep, made in the USA without those materials. Its plant-based Bio-PurTM foam is eco-friendly and comfortable. The Columbus and Americana use Bio-PurTM and Bio-CoreTM layers. Both are SFC approved.
6. Flooring
Eco-friendly bedroom flooring includes carpets made of natural fibers like wool or jute, or recycled plastics. Hardwood options include FSC certified woods or bamboo. Ask about lower emitting carpets, cushions and adhesives.
7. Eco-Friendly Cleaners
Use non-toxic cleaners on organic bedding and floors. Eco-friendly laundry detergent, steam cleaning, natural sprays and the right houseplants keep your space fresh without harsh chemicals.
Conclusion
An eco-friendly bedroom has many benefits for your health and the environment. Practices like using non-toxic paint, optimizing air quality and choosing sustainable decor can enhance your wellbeing and support the planet. Consider organic window treatments to complete your new green bedroom. Implementing even one of these tips will reduce your footprint and make your bedroom more enjoyable. Which step will you take first?