The kitchen is the heart of your home. It’s where people gather for meals, both to cook and eat. The kitchen is where coffee and hot cocoa are made for chilly days, and lemonade or iced tea for the warm ones. Chances are that your family, like all others, spends a considerable amount of time in this one room.
When you begin creating a greener home, the most natural place to start is the kitchen. Not only is it one of the most well-used rooms in your home, but it also tends to be the least eco-friendly. There are large appliances which eat electricity, food and paper products which get wasted, and a lot of water which gets used.
If you’re ready to begin the journey to a green kitchen, these five steps will put you on the right path. If you’re renting, you may not be able to do too many permanent alterations, but there is still useful information in here for renters.
Step 1: Plant A Garden
Planting a garden is a fun, uncomplicated way to be greener. Not only will you produce organic, natural food sources that are good for your family, but you’ll be helping the environment out a lot! A garden eliminates food waste by utilizing compost. It also does away with plastic packaging, and reduces consumer need for the local area, thus reducing the overall carbon footprint.
Step 2: More Natural Lighting & Energy Efficient Bulbs
One form of eco friendliness that is also great for your pocket is reducing electricity costs. A wonderful way to do this? Create the potential for more natural lighting and replace all your light bulbs with energy efficient ones. Ideas on how to create more natural light include:
- Removing curtains or other light-limiters from windows
- Replacing your current windows with larger options, or installing one or two new windows
- Install a skylight
- Keep windows clean to produce the maximum amount of lighting
Step 3: Replace Old Appliances with Energy Efficient Ones
This one is the most expensive step, but it can also save the most money. Replacing old energy-guzzling appliances with new ones that meet the standard requirements for energy efficiency can save a lot of money overtime. Each appliance you replace will save between $5 and $25 every month for years to come on your utility.
Step 4: Invest in Reusable Options
Investing in reusable options can make a massive impact on landfill waste. Use washable cups, plates, and silverware instead of disposable. Use rags for cleaning, and cloth napkins instead of paper. You can also get a reusable coffee filter and invest in reusable shopping bags like those available at customearthpromos.
Step 5: Think Durable
Ensuring your products and appliances last is the big key to reducing overall waste. When purchasing any new additions for your home, make sure they are built to last. Online reviews can help ensure this.
If you utilize these five steps, you can set up a green kitchen that is great for the environment, and your family too! Those on a budget need not do all at once. Each step can be taken one at a time for cost-efficiency.
