How can my home be more eco-friendly?

By now, we’re all aware of the major climate issues that are affecting our world. At the same time, energy bill prices are sky high, which is affecting millions of people in the UK. One way to tackle both issues is to be a little greener around the home, which will add efficiency and lower bills in many cases. Here we offer a few ideas about how your home can be a little eco-friendlier.

Invest in solar panels

Solar panels can be installed on the roof or in the back garden, depending on the size and structure of your home. They enable you to get energy direct from the sun, so you are not burning any fossils during the process. While the initial upfront cost is high, you will see savings over time, which will reduce energy bill costs and prove to be much kinder to the environment.

Fill your home with house plants

House plants are a great way to improve the air quality in your home. There are long list of plants that naturally absorb toxins in the air without harming them, while helping to purify the air that you breathe indoors. At the same time, they add bring colour and dimension to your home. Great plant options to consider include areca or bamboo palms, spider plant, English ivy and dragon plants.

Use natural cleaning products

Many popular commercial cleaning products contain strong chemicals such as ammonia, dyes, chlorine bleach and VOC. Breathing these in on a regular basis is not good for you health, so why not switch to natural cleaning products instead? A combination of vinegar and baking soda is one of the best cleaners around – and when you add in lemon or lavender it makes your home smell great too.

Say no to plastics

We know the world has a huge problem with plastic wastage and you can do your bit at home by using alternatives. Try to avoid using single-use plastics such as plates, cups, cutlery and straws. Utensils made from recyclable or reusable materials such as stainless steel, wood, bamboo and glass are more preferable. Try to move away from using plastic storage containers and instead opt for sustainable alternatives.

Install a low flow toilet

You may not know it, but older toilet systems use up a lot of water every time you flush. It is estimated that one toilet flush on this type of system uses as much as 14 litres. There are plenty of more water efficient models around that can cut this type of wastage down – and if you are on a water meter, it could also help to reduce your water bill.

Use cold water when washing your clothes

It’s easy just to throw our clothes into the washing machine, set it to the usual temperature and then let it do its thing. However, by setting it to a lower temperature, or even a cold wash, your clothes will come out just as clean. It is also a kinder option for the environment, as it will reduce your electricity bill as less energy is being used and at the same time lower you carbon footprint.

Use energy saving kitchen appliances

Most modern kitchen appliances tend to offer more efficient use of energy compared to older models. By law, all appliances must carry an energy label that will tell you how efficient it is, starting from A (the most efficient) down to G (the least efficient). Wherever you can make the change in the kitchen it will make a difference, helping to lower bills and be kinder to the environment.