The world is waking up to the need to lead greener lives. We’re finally beginning to understand that this is a decision that is not only better for the planet, but better for our health and the health of our children and grandchildren. Everyone wins.

The problem is that not everyone knows where to begin when it comes to little tasks, such as greening your bedroom. Making these greener living changes, though, can make a world of difference, and the more people who begin to make these changes, the greater that difference will be for the planet.

Here are a few things you can do in your bedroom to make it a greener space.

Make Greener Furniture Selections

It might sound like a tall order, but there are plenty of green options to consider when it comes to furniture. First, consider used furniture. Not only does this keep someone’s castoffs from going into a landfill, but it also allows you to breathe new life into older furniture without using new resources to create (or eliminate the furniture). 

Other considerations including purchasing furniture made with recycled ingredients, made from sustainable woods by responsible manufacturers, and stained and/or painted with low or no-VOC paints and stains. Using bedroom furniture made out of reclaimed wood is another popular choice. Reclaimed wood is lumber that comes from old barns, decking, warehouses, and factories.

Finally, choose a natural latex mattress for your bedroom. These mattresses last up to 25 years, are 100 percent recyclable, and are made with naturally-sourced and sustainable ingredients. This means these don’t end up filling up landfills in the way that traditional mattresses do.  Consider other eco-friendly bedding options as well, include organic cotton sheets and organic shredded latex pillows.

Switch to LED Bulbs

Making this particular switch is a minor change that can have a massive impact on the environment. Not only do LED light bulbs last up to 20 years, but they use 85 percent less electricity than traditional incandescent light bulbs.

That’s less waste to get rid of, far less work to change light bulbs frequently, and a huge load off your mind knowing you’re making an environmentally responsible decision for your bedroom.

Choose Plants for Fragrance and Freshness

Live plants, like lavender, snake plant, spider plant, jasmine, and valerian are great for adding fragrance and a hint of green to your bedroom. Some offer the simplicity of beautiful fragrances, while others help to filter the air – all are much better for the planet than perfumed air fresheners and scented oil warmers.

Clean the Eco-Friendly Way

Instead of using harsh chemicals to clean your bedroom, use natural green cleaning products. You’ll find quite a few natural wood furniture polish and eco-friendly carpet shampoos, that will eliminate bringing toxic chemicals into your home.  Choose phosphate-free detergents to wash your sheets and bedding.

Greening your bedroom has never been easier. Fortunately for you, these are ideas that transition well to other rooms of your home as well. The more time you take now to add green touches throughout your home, the better the results for the planet will be.