There's a big buzz around "living green" right now. And hundreds of ways to do it! Here's a few easy steps you can take to start living to be more environmentally friendly!
1. Use less hot hair
Your clothes dryer uses a lot of energy to get your clothing dry. But now that summer's here, consider putting your clothes outside to dry. Not only will it save electricity or gas, but your clothes will smell wonderful and will last longer! If you do need to use your dryer, throw in some dryer balls, which will fluff clothing and can cut drying time by 25%!
2. Use EnergyStar appliances
As you build your new home, shop around for appliances that comply with EnergyStar efficiency standards. These can save you about 30% in energy costs per year (compared to a normal appliance.) You can find more information at http://www.energystar.gov/.
3. Don't idle
If your car is stopped for longer than 15 seconds, turn it off. Letting it idle will use more gas and emit toxic fumes. Not idling could have a significant impact on greenhouse gases - just ask Burlington, VT's mayor Bob Kiss. They've had a law against idling on the books since 1990. So just turn your car off when you're stopped and you'll save money and the planet.
4. Use eco-friendly cleaners
Next time you start to pull out the industrial strength window cleaner, ask yourself if you have anything in the house that's eco-friendly to clean with. Chances are you do. Warm water coupled with a microfiber towel or scrubber will clean up most messes. Add a little white vinegar or baking soda and you've got an environmentally friendly solution that's tough on messes. For more homemade cleaning ideas, visit http://organizedhome.com/pantry-recipes-homemade-cleaning-products
5. Check over your vehicle before heading out on your summer vacation
Millions of people will hit the road this summer and if you're one of them there's a few things you can do to get the most out of your road trip.
1. Use less hot hair
Your clothes dryer uses a lot of energy to get your clothing dry. But now that summer's here, consider putting your clothes outside to dry. Not only will it save electricity or gas, but your clothes will smell wonderful and will last longer! If you do need to use your dryer, throw in some dryer balls, which will fluff clothing and can cut drying time by 25%!
2. Use EnergyStar appliances
As you build your new home, shop around for appliances that comply with EnergyStar efficiency standards. These can save you about 30% in energy costs per year (compared to a normal appliance.) You can find more information at http://www.energystar.gov/.
3. Don't idle
If your car is stopped for longer than 15 seconds, turn it off. Letting it idle will use more gas and emit toxic fumes. Not idling could have a significant impact on greenhouse gases - just ask Burlington, VT's mayor Bob Kiss. They've had a law against idling on the books since 1990. So just turn your car off when you're stopped and you'll save money and the planet.4. Use eco-friendly cleaners
Next time you start to pull out the industrial strength window cleaner, ask yourself if you have anything in the house that's eco-friendly to clean with. Chances are you do. Warm water coupled with a microfiber towel or scrubber will clean up most messes. Add a little white vinegar or baking soda and you've got an environmentally friendly solution that's tough on messes. For more homemade cleaning ideas, visit http://organizedhome.com/pantry-recipes-homemade-cleaning-products
5. Check over your vehicle before heading out on your summer vacation
Millions of people will hit the road this summer and if you're one of them there's a few things you can do to get the most out of your road trip.
- First, check your tire pressure. Tires with low air pressure will mean you get a lower mpg. Fill up those tires and watch your mpg rise!
- You can also pack lighter. Vehicles that are loaded down with luggage and weight will be less efficient than the same vehicles that are carrying less cargo.
- Tune up your car before you leave. Replacing your vehicles air filter, changing the oil and regular maintenance will help cut down on emissions.
- Visit http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/maintain.shtml for more tips for keeping your vehicle in shape
Remember, living green isn't about taking a huge leap. It's about all the little things that we can do every day to make our lives more environmentally friendly!
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