by Kimberley Heit

Created on: June 21, 2009   Last Updated: June 09, 2010

An eco eco-friendly home interior design can be achieved in numerous ways. You could paint the walls with organic paint, utilize recycled items, add something living to your room, think smart when it comes to window treatments, choose natural and renewable products, or use eco-friendly gadgets. Any of these choices could benefit both your health and the wellbeing of the planet!

Utilizing Organic paint

If a new coat of paint is in order, it is most beneficial to choose an organic paint. Synthetic paints contain a host of toxic chemicals like; volatile organic compounds, mercury, formaldehyde, chrome and toluene. These ingredients damage air quality, waterways and over time can cause many health problems. They are believed to be carcinogenic, can damage reproductive health and compromise the immune system. Organic paints are made from ingredients like; milk solids, Castor oil, nut oils, bees wax, clay, chalk and plant dyes. They decrease toxicity in the air and because they are solvent free the paint tools can simply be cleaned with detergent. This reduces the negative impact on the waterways. In additions to organic paints, there are also many eco-friendly stains, finishing products and biodegradable paint strippers.

Using recycled items

Anytime you decide to use a recycled item over acquiring something brand new, you are inevitably reducing waste. This has a positive effect on landfill. You could try shopping at garage sales, second hand stores, or perhaps have a piece of furniture made from recycled timber.

Adding something living to your room

By choosing to integrate a living object into your room, you can affect a positive environmental outcome. For example, if you select to add an indoor plant, you can help eliminate household toxins, effectively cleansing the air. Some suitable plants to try include; Peace Lily, English Ivy, Boston fern, Bamboo palm, and Fichus varieties. Many of these plants can help eliminate the chemical formaldehyde. Alternatively, you could choose to add character to the room through the use of a fish tank, rather then a stereo system, or some other technological device.

Thinking smart when it comes to window treatments

Window treatments are not only restricted to providing privacy and an aesthetic function, they also help control light and temperature. You should look for a window treatment that helps insulate the room in weather extremes, because this can help to minimize the need for heating or air

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