Sustainable Home Decor Ideas & Tips

There’s no place like home. It's the place where we most feel comfortable, and it is where we can reflect our personality and core values.

Whether you are a passionate environmentalist or a casual recycler, sustainable home decor is the perfect way to live out your sentiments about Going Green. 

Fortunately, you don’t have to sacrifice your own style or break the bank for trendy, eco-friendly solutions. There is something special about recycled and repurposed items that will make your home stand out. Meanwhile, some of these ideas will only be noticeable by a greener Earth.

If you want your home to be a reflection of your affection for Mother Earth, read on for some top sustainable home decor ideas and tips.

Opt for Organic, Natural Materials

When buying linens and towels, try to buy items made from natural, or preferably, organic fibers. Some recommended natural fibers include hemp, cotton, flax, jute, and bamboo.

Keep in mind that natural fibers can be a bit more expensive than synthetic ones, but they last longer and stand unique. There are many options online selling fabrics made with natural fibers, so it’s easy to shop around and find exactly what you are looking for.

Choose Timeless Decor Items

Timeless items will never look obsolete or out-of-style. Rather, they retain their unique charm forever.

By choosing a classic look, you won’t need to change up your decor colors or furniture styles frequently. This means that you shouldn’t choose something that just became trendy this year because it probably won’t be cool in a year or two. Consider styles, color schemes, designs, and materials that are simple and will last for years to come.

One decor element that lasts year after year is a durable canvas print. The key is to choose an artwork that you will enjoy seeing hang on your wall time and again. That way it will be of use for years on end.

Shop Secondhand

Secondhand shopping has become popular in the home decor industry, especially due to a growing awareness of the environment. It is also a great way to decorate your home on a budget. By purchasing gently used furniture and décor items, you are potentially saving them from the garbage landfill.

Flea markets and community garage sales are a fun way to search for some hidden gems. There are also a variety of online marketplaces where you can buy and sell secondhand items. 

Whether it’s an antique bedroom set, a classic coffee table, or a beautiful vase, buy used and decorate your home with some truly unique items.

Paint Wisely

Wall paints typically contain chemicals called VOCs (volatile organic compounds). These organic, carbon-based compounds evaporate in the air as paint dries, making them dangerous for the environment and human health.

Even paints that have no VOCs may have other harmful chemicals. It is best to look for paints that are “non-toxic” or “natural.” Luckily these paints are usually water-based, or also called latex paints. Avoid oil-based paints that require toxic solvents for clean-up.

Carefully measure your room and use an online paint calculator to avoid buying too much paint. You can hold onto leftover paint for touch-ups or repairs. Otherwise, take it to your local county Household Hazardous Waste drop-off.

Paint can make a big impact to your décor and the environment. Safe paints are now available in virtually all shades of colors, giving you countless options to choose from. Environmental concerns won’t stop you from choosing the perfect color for each room in your home.

Decorate with Plants

Real living plants are an excellent way to Go Green in your home! They bring the beauty of Mother Nature indoors and purify the air quality in your home, making your home safer for your family.

Head to a nursery for expert advice on which plants will work well in your home. Don’t have a green thumb? Don’t worry. The snake plant, philodendrons, succulents (types of cactus), and aloe are all well known for being low maintenance.

On top of that, houseplants can be much more affordable than many other home decor items. Some plants will grow from stem or leaf cuttings that you can get from a friend or neighbor. Get creative and use decorated cans, spare pitchers, or bowls for containers.

Indoor plants look great in all rooms, from your kitchen and dining room to your bathroom and bedroom. Complement the real thing with eco-murals and botanical wall art to bring nature and the outdoors into your home.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

There are so many more ways to express your environmental conscience in how you decorate your home. One approach is to simplify your life and reduce your consumption.

Or, instead of buying new, go for a vintage look. Refurbish and reuse antique furniture. Salvage wood from an older home and reuse for flooring in your home.
Try out some cool DIY home decor ideas to recycle and repurpose items around the house. These fun ideas allow you to really make your home your own creation.

Final Words

Decorating sustainably doesn’t have to mean going entirely minimalistic. By using these tips and tricks, your home will stand as a unique reflection of your style and affection for Mother Earth.