Over the last few years, we have been working towards natural living and creating a more sustainable home.
But let’s be real here, some days we are a light shade of green and others we are a very dark green. And that’s ok – its all a process.
I am trying to learn how to be more sustainable in our home. That is without pushing my family away from the idea.
But it all takes balance.
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Creating a More Sustainable Home Life
I used to get overwhelmed when I began my natural living journey. There’s so much information out there and it can become quite daunting.
Before beginning any changes, I would suggest thinking of your end goal. And starting slowly to avoid the overwhelm. Small changes over time can make a huge difference.
This is probably one of my biggest lessons learned.
I believe one way to become more natural and green is to follow that old time saying.
Use it up. Wear it out. Make it do. Or do without.
Not only is this a frugal approach to life, it also leads towards a sustainable home environment. Because it really helps to change my way of thinking and my spending habits.
To me sustainable living also means making swaps for more natural things. And it means making smart choices.
It might not always be easy, but besides living natural for my health and well being. I have four more small reasons that have motivated me to live this way of life.
An important part of motherhood for me, is giving my children the best life I can. And that includes one as natural and healthy as possible.
10 Simple Ideas for Getting Started with Sustainable Living
- Save energy by shutting off lights and appliances when you leave the room and they aren’t in use.
- Lower the thermostat during cooler months and wear layers.
- Create a seasonal capsule wardroom. Here’s how I put together my vintage inspired capsule wardrobe.
- Use cold water in the washing machine.
- Line dry clothing or use wool dryer balls when running the dryer.
- Open the blinds or curtains and let in as much natural light as possible.
- Allow fresh air into the home to avoid using a fan or air conditioning.
- Start timing showers and limit water waste.
- Grow your own food.
- Repurpose as many things in the home as possible.
Favorite Natural Product Swaps to Try
One of my very first swaps was to replace conventional cleaners with natural products. Here are a few of my favorites.
Cleaning Swaps:
- Use vinegar to replace fabric softener in the washer.
- Replace dryer sheets with wool dryer balls.
- Use microfiber cloths instead of paper towels.
- Replace bleach with an oxygen brightener.
- Try baking soda for a scrub.
Kitchen Swaps:
- Use these glass storage containers instead of plastic storage.
- Replace plastic cooking utensils with wooden spoons.
- Try Bees Wraps instead of plastic wrap or foil for food storage.
- Take these reusable produce bags to the grocery store instead of using their plastic.
Household Swaps:
- Repurpose glass jars for storage instead of buying new.
- Use glass water bottles instead of buying plastic bottles.
- Make your own soap rather than buying body wash in plastic bottles.
- Try using cloth napkins instead of paper products.
- Replace your family’s toothbrushes with a natural version.
Shop some of my favorite natural products here.
A Few Simple Reminders
Remember that your whole world doesn’t need to change overnight. I really believe to be successful, it’s important to start small. This will help overwhelm and keep one motivated.
Here are a few more small changes you can start today to begin a more sustainable lifestyle.
- Cut down on energy in the home.
- Grow your own garden.
- Compost & recycle more.
- Limit paper products in the home.
- Use cloth instead of paper towels.
- Barter. Exchange products or services with others.
- Reduce water waste.
What small changes have you made towards a more natural and sustainable lifestyle?
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