11 Easy Tips for Green Living at Home

Happy Earth Day!

For 2009 I’ve resolved to live a little greener.  I’m not planning on installing solar panels or buying a hybrid just yet – I’m going to start with little green baby steps to live in a manner that better suites the environment AND my wallet. I call that a win-win!

This first stage of green is what I call the low lying fruit of eco living. These are things I can do in my home to help create a mindset for greener living. I’ll save the big stuff for my 2010 resolution!

1. Curtain Call: Open drapes during the day to let the sun in, close them at night to keep the cold out.
2. Bag It: Use cloth bags at the grocery store
3. Rags are In: Buy oodles of microfiber rags and use them in lieu of sponges and paper towels. I keep one at the kitchen sink, and replace it every day. Just keep a basket near the washing machine for towels and/or wet stuff.
4. Recycle: cans, glass, paper and plastic (you know the drill, time to be consistent!) Remember, reusing something in a new way counts too!
5. Drink Up: Add a filter to your tap and drink local to kick your bottled water habit
6. Unplug: Unplug kitchen appliances when not in use. Plug electronics into power strips that can be easily switched off when not in use (that includes chargers!).
7. Dry Smart: Clean out your dryer vent and set dryer to automatic dry without the cool fluff option.
8. Clean Up: Skip the heat dry option on your dishwasher – just run it at night time.
9. Chill Out: Lower the thermostat and put on a cozy sweater or throw (better yet, just snuggle more!)
10. Shower with Love: Lower the temperature of your water heater (shower with a friend, anyone?)
11. Lights Out: Use energy efficient light bulbs. Better yet, turn off lights when not in use. How about candlelight instead?

There you have it…if I can do it, so can you! What other ways are you living greener in your home?

Thanks to Julia for another fab Hooked on Friday’s party!  Stop over and get inspired, and get yer green on!