10 Tips for an Environmentally Friendly Home

- Make the jump to fluorescent lighting; it uses about a quarter as much energy as incandescent lighting and can last many times longer.
- Use phosphate-free detergents; they get clothes just as clean, but are gentle on the environment.
- Paper or plastic? Neither! Bring reusable bags to the grocery store.
- Pass on harsh drain cleaners for a more eco-friendly approach such as pouring baking soda mixed with a half cup of vinegar down the drain followed by boiling water.
- Overloaded with free coffee mugs? Use one in your bathroom as a toothbrush holder or mouthwash mug.
- Drink filtered water and take a thermos with you to minimize waste made by water bottles.
- For small paint jobs, mix old paint colors together instead of buying more.
- Dont fall asleep with the TV on.
- Redecorating? Go vintage! Buying vintage furniture requires no additional resources and eases the load on landfills.
- Eliminate drafts around windows, doors and garage doors to conserve heat and AC.
This article has been read 75 times