Choosing environmentally-friendly home décor options is not just about being kinder to the planet. Furniture manufacturers who make eco-friendly choices are also making beautiful furniture that contains fewer VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and other toxic materials that can harm your health. When considering home décor, make sure that you:

1) Look for furniture and home décor items made from eco-friendly materials.

When considering wood furniture, look for furniture made from sustainable wood (or bamboo) or recycled materials. MDF (medium density fibreboard) is made from leftover wood, so it can be a good choice as well. Glass and metals are good options because they last a long time and are made from renewable materials. They can also look sleek and sophisticated in your home. In most cases, plastic is a material you will want to limit or avoid in your home, since some plastics are toxic and many are made from non-renewable resources.

2) Choose manufacturers carefully.

When you buy furniture and other items for your home, you are voting with your wallet. Make your vote count. Buy from manufacturers you feel good about. Learn more about the manufacturers making your furniture. What processes are they using to be gentler on the planet? Consider writing to manufacturers who make eco-friendly options to let them know you appreciate their efforts and encouraging them to continue their eco-conscious processes.

3) Choose durable furniture you love.

Replacing furniture often isn’t great for the environment. No matter how eco-friendly a furniture making process is, it still uses resources and delivering your new purchases uses up fuel. Buy furniture you love that will last for years to come. Refuse to fall for trends that will see you redecorating in just a few seasons.

4) Consider a minimalist style.

Filling up your home with little décor items isn’t sophisticated or gorgeous – and it just means you are buying more consumer goods that use up resources. Opt for a few beautiful pieces of art or a bookcase full of books rather than tons of collectibles.

5) Carefully consider what to do with home décor items you no longer need.

Don’t just let them languish in the garbage and fill up landfills. Consider donating your items or even selling them online. You may end up making a little money that you can use to decorate your home – and your old items may help cheer up someone else’s home.

6) Think carefully before you paint.

Read labels carefully. Look for non-toxic paints that are low in VOCs. When painting, be sure to air out your home well as the paint dries, since even less toxic paints release fumes.

Making green choices when it comes to home décor means making choices you can live with comfortably. Knowing that you have bought items that are good for the environment can bring you peace of mind. With today’s options, eco-friendly can also mean beautiful, since many furniture manufacturers are making gorgeous items that are less taxing for the planet. To get some ideas, be sure to check out Mojo Direct for inspiration and eco-friendly furniture for your home.