“Being green is more than just buying ‘eco’. It is an unshakable commitment to a sustainable lifestyle.” – Jennifer Nini. This past year we have seen a rise in sustainability efforts from consumers. People are not only buying eco-friendly items but are now bringing the lifestyle into their own homes. If you are wanting to start your green journey, check out this guide on how to create an eco-friendly bathroom.
Install Water-Wise Fixtures
One of the most wasteful things in the bathroom is how we use water. Did you know that you are wasting gallons and gallons of water per day every time you wash your hands, use the restroom or bathe? To stop these wasteful habits, add aerators, filters and other water-saving equipment to your facets, pipes, fixtures and showerheads. Also, remember to reduce your water usage by cutting back on your showers and turning off the water when you are not using it.
Use Recyclable, Reusable or Sustainable Items
When it comes to the items you use in your restroom, you can purchase products that are recyclable, reusable, biodegradable and sustainable. For example, you can use towels, rugs or mats created from recycled or environment-friendly fabrics or toilet paper, cotton swaps or makeup wipes made from biodegradable or recyclable materials. When searching for these items, look out for keywords like recyclable, reusable, sustainable, biodegradable, eco-friendly or energy saving. The best part is that you can revamp your eco-friendly bathroom with products you find in-store or online. Plus, many websites will breakdown items into sustainable categories, which means less searching for you!
Install Energy-Efficient Equipment
All the appliances or equipment that you use in your restroom can be energy-efficient. Your water heater is an object that you can easily replace with an energy-efficient version. The best energy-efficient water heaters include a heat pump water heater, tankless water heater, condensing storage water heater and solar water heater. When in doubt, look for appliances and objects that state Energy Star on the packaging.
Use VOC-Free Products
Stop releasing harmful toxins into the environment by using VOC-free products. VOC stands for volatile organic compounds. And, many products like paint, glue, flooring and more have VOCs in them. That is why it is important to review the labels of any of the products you plan on using. Many other options have no VOCs. If you need help finding these items, please give us a call. We can give you a thorough list of paint, glue and flooring that is free of these toxins.
Utilize Natural Lighting or Energy Saving Bulbs
Lighting plays an essential role in protecting our planet. You will want to use as much natural lighting as possible. Install windows or solar panels in your restroom for optimal natural lighting. For the times that you cannot use the sun, install fluorescent bulbs into your lighting fixtures. When finding the right light bulb, make sure to find packaging that says energy-saving.
Install Eco-Friendly Cabinets, Vanities & Flooring
In your next bathroom remodel, try out eco-friendly cabinets, vanities and flooring. Woods like plywood, particleboard and pressed wood found in many cabinets, vanities and flooring contains harmful chemicals. Instead of using the norm, opt for eco-friendly options such as bamboo, solid wood, recycled wood, FSC certified wood and other recycled items.
Need more tips on remodeling your bathroom? Check out not only our free resources page for planning guides and more but also our latest guide top 10 reasons why people might remodel/update their restroom. If you are ready to renovate your bathroom to include new safety and sustainable measures, contact Valor Home Services today.
