For our Earth Day theme week, I am bringing you small lifestyle changes in your every day to help the Earth! Even though we cannot celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day together we still wanted to bring you that Earth Day content! If you are looking for a more eco-friendly lifestyle, let this list guide you.
1. Unplug Appliances When Not In Use
Household appliances can waste energy even when they are not turned on. So, do not leave coffee makers, toasters, or lamps plugged in.
2. Wash Laundry in Cold Water
Ninety percent of energy in the washing machine goes towards heating the water! Not only will washing clothes in cold water will save energy, but it might even help your clothes last longer. Warm water can fade, shrink, and wrinkle certain fabrics.
3. Turn Off the Heat Dry Function on the Dishwasher
The same thing goes for the dishwasher, like the washing machine. Selecting the air dry function will save about fifteen percent of the dishwasher’s energy.
4. Use Cloth Towels Instead of Paper Towels
It helps lower waste and saves money buying cloth towels instead of paper towels every week.
5. Stop Drinking Out of Plastic Water Bottles
Easy fix, use a reusable glass, plastic, or stainless steel water bottle. The same goes for a reusable coffee mug.
6. Turn Off Lights When Leaving the Room
Guilty for leaving lights on, but it can significantly lower the amount of energy you are using.
7. Purchase Reusable Batteries
This will lower how much you are spending on batteries and how often you are throwing them away. There are many swaps I could list like switching out makeup wipes for a reusable cloth, but I think batteries are one people usually forget about.
8. Shop at a Farmer’s Market
Shopping local will help small businesses near you and you will get better quality food there. It can help reduce food waste and packaging. Don’t forget to bring those reusable bags!
I hope this gives you ideas to get started on small everyday changes to help the Earth!