Last Updated on January 19, 2024 by Kravelv
As people become increasingly aware of their impact on the planet, they are looking to make sustainable choices, whether that means buying fewer clothes or designing their homes in eco-friendly ways. Regarding the latter, it's actually disturbing to think that many of the decisions homeowners make regarding their homes are incredibly harmful to the planet.
Luckily, those decisions aren't set in stone, and there is always the chance to do better. It's worth noting that living in a sustainable home isn't just beneficial for the environment, but it can also save you money and boost your health and quality of life. Many people have the misconception that designing a sustainable home will cost a fortune, but that's not the case. There are simple transformations you can make that will go a long way in creating a living space with a lower environmental impact. For example, you can start by considering the fabric you choose for upholstery. Many conventional materials pose risks to the planet, due to all the polluting they involve. On the contrary, eco-friendly fabric limits these risks, protecting the environment and your health.
What makes fabric sustainable?
Organic cotton, bamboo, and hemp stand out as the most popular options for eco-friendly fabrics. Unlike synthetic fabrics treated with pesticides, these fabrics are made of natural fibres, requiring less water to grow. Moreover, they are moth-resistant, cool, and antimicrobial, thus keeping you healthy.
Sustainable fabric also consists of recycled materials, a factor that plays a crucial role in reducing mass pollution. Moreover, fabric produced locally is eco-friendly, eliminating the long and often damaging supply chains from the equation. When looking for sustainable fabric for upholstery, it's essential to ensure it has been designed ethically. For instance, if you opt for oeko-tex fabric, you will have peace of mind knowing that the best sustainability practices have been met during manufacturing.
Why natural fabrics are a better choice for your home than synthetic materials
There are endless reasons why it's better to opt for natural fabrics instead of synthetic ones in your home. Did you know that the textile industry is at the top of the list of the most polluting sectors in the world? That's right, and that's due to the harm caused by petroleum-based materials. Since eco-friendly fabrics are biodegradable, they have the potential to make the textile industry more sustainable. But it's not only the environment that benefits if you choose natural fabrics in your home - you can also reap excellent rewards.
Durability
Natural fibres are long-lasting, making them resistant to regular wear and tear. This means replacing them as often as synthetic fibres is not necessary. It's always better to opt for organic cotton instead of regular cotton, as its fibres aren't exposed to harsh chemicals. Besides, since organic cotton is picked by hand instead of a machine, the fabric is naturally more robust and durable. Therefore, in the long run, it's a profitable investment, ensuring your home upholstery will maintain its beauty over the course of time.
Improved health
Eco-friendly fabric doesn't only keep the environment safe, but it also protects your skin due to its hypoallergenic properties. This is because no harmful chemicals are used in the manufacturing process, reducing the risk of irritation and allergies. In fact, many natural fabrics keep fungus and bacteria away. For instance, organic cotton is a fabric that is kind to your skin, as no pesticides and fertilisers are involved in its growth process. Similarly, bamboo (which can be used to create some of the best textiles) is an eco-friendly fabric option that eliminates harmful substances from your living space, ensuring you and your family can breathe easily and enjoy better health.
Comfort
Your home is the space where you can unwind after a tiring day, so you want it to promote an inviting atmosphere. This is why it's essential to incorporate home furnishings fabrics that allow you to relax in your own home sanctuary. Natural fibres provide more comfort than synthetic fabrics, allowing the air to circulate, regulating moisture and temperature in your home. As a result, you can enjoy a more pleasant living space.
Timeless style
Aesthetics is another reason why you should invest in natural fibres. Their organic appearance will enhance your home's visual appeal, adding texture and warmth to the design. Whether you opt for bamboo or cotton, incorporating natural fabrics in your living space is a great way to add a touch of elegance and refinement, thus creating a timeless look in your home.
How to seamlessly decorate your home with sustainable fabrics
Incorporating natural fabrics in your home may seem daunting at first, but it's doable and worth it. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Check the product tags before purchasing. If you really want to commit to sustainability, you must ensure that your purchases are genuinely sustainable. So, make sure to educate yourself before buying a product. In other words, research its certifications and check the product tags if possible. This way, you will know that you're really buying natural fabric.
- Make small changes. When looking to make your home more eco-friendly, there's no need to transform the whole interior. Instead, you can begin with minor changes, such as replacing your throw blankets and cushion covers with sustainable fabrics.
- Don't be afraid to mix and match. Combining different patterns and textures is a great way to incorporate sustainability into your home. For instance, hemp has a unique texture, adding depth to the space, while organic cotton provides softness, so you can blend the two to achieve a balanced look.
- Seek professional help. If you find it challenging to tackle this project on your own, you can always consult an interior designer who specialises in sustainable practices. Although it may require more effort and investment, if you're serious about lowering your carbon footprint, getting expert advice is one of the best decisions you can make to transform your home - and protect the environment.
The bottom line
Embracing sustainability in your home isn't a trend but a responsible choice which will benefit both the planet and your wellbeing. With the information provided in this blog, you can design a home that is functional, beautiful and, above all, climate-conscious.
