If you’re a hipster, you’re probably already conscious of the impact you have on the environment. You may have already made some changes to your lifestyle to reduce your carbon footprint.
But have you thought about how you can make your home more sustainable? There are plenty of ways to make your home eco-friendlier without sacrificing style or convenience.
In this article, we’ll explore 17 ways to make your hipster home more sustainable.
From reducing your meat consumption to investing in energy-efficient appliances, we’ll cover a range of tips and tricks to help you live a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.
So whether you’re a seasoned sustainability pro or just starting out, there’s something for everyone in this guide.
1. Use Reclaimed Wood
Using reclaimed wood is a great way to make your hipster home more sustainable. Reclaimed wood is wood that has been salvaged from old buildings, barns, and other structures that are no longer in use. By using reclaimed wood, you are reducing the demand for new timber, which helps to preserve our forests.
Not only is using reclaimed wood eco-friendly, but it also adds a unique and rustic charm to your home. Reclaimed wood has a story to tell, and it can add character and warmth to any room.
There are many ways to incorporate reclaimed wood into your home decor. You can use it for flooring, walls, furniture, and even small accents like picture frames and coasters. You can also create DIY projects using reclaimed wood, such as shelves, headboards, and coffee tables.
When using reclaimed wood, it is important to make sure that it has been properly treated and is free of any harmful chemicals. You can also look for wood that has been certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which ensures that the wood has been responsibly sourced.
Overall, using reclaimed wood is a simple and sustainable way to add style and character to your hipster home.
2. Install Solar Panels
Installing solar panels is a great way to make your hipster home more sustainable. Solar panels use the sun’s energy to generate electricity, which can power your home and reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources.
While the initial cost of installation can be high, solar panels can save you money in the long run by reducing your energy bills. Additionally, many areas offer tax credits and rebates to homeowners who install solar panels, making it a more affordable option.
When choosing solar panels, be sure to do your research and select a reputable company. Look for panels that are durable and efficient, and consider the size and placement of your panels to maximize their effectiveness.
Overall, installing solar panels is a smart investment for your hipster home. Not only will you be reducing your carbon footprint, but you’ll also be saving money on your energy bills in the long run.
3. Choose Bamboo Flooring
When it comes to sustainable flooring options, bamboo is a great choice for your hipster home. Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource, which means it grows back quickly after it’s harvested. This makes it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional hardwood flooring.
Bamboo flooring is also durable and long-lasting, making it a wise investment for your home. With proper care, it can last for decades. Plus, bamboo flooring comes in a variety of styles and colors, so you can find one that fits your unique hipster aesthetic.
Another benefit of bamboo flooring is its low carbon footprint. Bamboo absorbs more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than other trees, which means it helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing bamboo flooring for your home, you’re making an environmentally responsible choice.
Overall, bamboo flooring is a sustainable and stylish choice for your hipster home. It offers numerous benefits such as durability, low carbon footprint, and design versatility. So, if you’re looking to make your home more eco-friendly, consider choosing bamboo flooring for your floors.
4. Opt for LED Lighting
One simple way to make your hipster home more sustainable is to switch to LED lighting. LED lights are energy-efficient and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, which means you’ll save money on your electricity bill and reduce your carbon footprint.
LED lights are also available in a variety of styles and colors, so you can find the perfect lighting to fit your hipster aesthetic. Plus, they don’t contain any hazardous materials like mercury, which makes them safer for the environment and your health.
To make the most of your LED lights, be sure to turn them off when you’re not using them. This will help you save even more energy and money. You can also consider using smart lighting systems that allow you to control your lights from your phone or voice assistant.
By opting for LED lighting in your hipster home, you’ll not only save money and energy, but you’ll also be doing your part to reduce your impact on the environment. So why not make the switch today?
5. Buy Vintage Furniture
Buying vintage furniture is a great way to make your hipster home more sustainable. Not only is it more environmentally friendly, but it can also add character and charm to your space. Vintage furniture is often made of high-quality materials and built to last, which means it can be used for many years to come.
When you buy vintage furniture, you are also helping to reduce waste and prevent old items from ending up in landfills. By repurposing and reusing old furniture, you can lower your carbon footprint by minimizing the need for manufacturing new items. Plus, vintage furniture can be reused, recycled, and repurposed, making it a great investment for your home.
Vintage furniture can be found at thrift stores, antique shops, and online marketplaces. Look for pieces that are in good condition and made of high-quality materials, such as solid wood or metal. You can also consider upcycling old furniture to give it a new life and a fresh look.
Overall, buying vintage furniture is a sustainable and stylish way to furnish your hipster home. So, next time you’re in the market for new furniture, consider purchasing vintage pieces instead of buying new.
6. Use Natural Cleaning Products
When it comes to keeping your hipster home clean, you don’t have to rely on harsh chemicals. There are plenty of natural cleaning products that are just as effective and better for the environment.
One option is to make your own cleaning solutions using ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. These DIY cleaners are easy to make and can be customized to suit your cleaning needs.
Another option is to purchase natural cleaning products from eco-friendly brands. Look for products that are free from harmful chemicals like phosphates, chlorine, and artificial fragrances. Instead, opt for products that use plant-based ingredients and essential oils to clean and freshen your home.
Not only are natural cleaning products better for the environment, but they can also be better for your health. Harsh chemicals in traditional cleaning products can irritate your skin and respiratory system, while natural products are gentler and safer to use.
By using natural cleaning products, you can keep your hipster home clean and eco-friendly at the same time.
7. Install a Smart Thermostat
If you’re looking for an easy way to make your hipster home more sustainable, consider installing a smart thermostat. This device can help you save energy and reduce your carbon footprint by ensuring your home uses energy more efficiently.
Smart thermostats offer a range of features that can help you manage your home’s energy consumption. For example, they can learn your daily routine and adjust the temperature accordingly, so you don’t have to manually adjust it every time you leave or enter your home. They can also be controlled remotely via a mobile app, so you can adjust the temperature from anywhere.
Installing a smart thermostat is relatively easy, and many models come with step-by-step instructions. You’ll need to remove your old thermostat and replace it with the new one, and then connect it to your home’s Wi-Fi network. Once it’s set up, you can start using its features to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint.
Overall, a smart thermostat is a great investment for any hipster home that wants to be more sustainable. It can help you save energy, reduce your carbon footprint, and make your home more comfortable and convenient.
8. Grow an Indoor Herb Garden
If you’re looking for a simple and sustainable way to add some greenery to your hipster home, consider growing an indoor herb garden. Not only will it bring some life to your space, but you’ll also have fresh herbs on hand whenever you need them.
To get started, choose herbs that are easy to grow indoors, such as parsley, mint, chives, and thyme. Make sure they get enough light by placing them near a window or using a grow light. Be sure to water them regularly, but don’t overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Growing your own herbs indoors is not only sustainable, but it can also save you money in the long run. You won’t have to keep buying packaged herbs from the grocery store, which often come with excess packaging and may have been transported from far away.
In addition to being a sustainable and cost-effective option, an indoor herb garden can also add a lovely scent to your home. Plus, it’s a fun and rewarding activity to take on as a hobby. Try it out and see how it transforms your space!
9. Use Recycled Glass Decor
When it comes to decorating your hipster home sustainably, using recycled glass decor is a great option. Not only is it eco-friendly, but it also adds a unique touch to your space.
One way to incorporate recycled glass decor is by purchasing items made from recycled glass, such as vases, candle holders, and bowls. These items are often handmade and come in a variety of colors and designs, making them perfect for adding a pop of color to your home.
Another option is to repurpose old glass items into new decor pieces. For example, you can turn old mason jars into stylish drinking glasses or use old wine bottles as vases for fresh flowers. This not only reduces waste but also gives new life to items that would otherwise be thrown away.
When shopping for recycled glass decor, be sure to look for items that are made from post-consumer recycled glass. This means that the glass has been recycled from items like bottles and jars, rather than being produced from raw materials.
By incorporating recycled glass decor into your hipster home, you can add a sustainable and unique touch to your space while also reducing waste.
10. Choose Organic Textiles
When it comes to choosing textiles for your hipster home, consider going organic. Organic textiles are made from natural materials that are grown without the use of harmful chemicals or pesticides. This means that they are better for the environment and for your health.
Organic cotton is a popular choice for bedding, towels, and clothing. It is soft, durable, and easy to care for. Organic wool is another great option for blankets and rugs. It is naturally flame-resistant and has excellent insulating properties.
In addition to being better for the environment, organic textiles are also better for the people who produce them. Organic farming practices promote fair labor practices and provide a safer working environment for farmers and their families.
When shopping for organic textiles, look for certifications from organizations like the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) or the Organic Content Standard (OCS). These certifications ensure that the textiles are made from organic materials and meet strict environmental and social standards.
By choosing organic textiles for your hipster home, you are making a conscious choice to support sustainable and ethical practices. Plus, they look and feel great too!
11. Install Low-Flow Fixtures
One of the easiest ways to make your hipster home more sustainable is to install low-flow fixtures. These fixtures, such as showerheads and faucets, are designed to use less water without sacrificing performance.
By installing low-flow fixtures, you can significantly reduce your water consumption and lower your water bills. In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you can save up to 700 gallons of water per year by replacing just one old showerhead with a low-flow model.
In addition to saving water, low-flow fixtures can also help you conserve energy. This is because less water means less energy is needed to heat it, which can lead to lower energy bills.
When choosing low-flow fixtures, look for models that are WaterSense certified. This certification ensures that the fixtures meet strict water efficiency and performance standards set by the EPA.
Overall, installing low-flow fixtures is a simple and effective way to make your hipster home more sustainable.
12. Use Beeswax Wraps
If you’re looking for a more sustainable alternative to plastic wrap or aluminum foil, beeswax wraps are a great option. These reusable wraps are made from cotton fabric coated in beeswax, which makes them sticky and moldable. You can use them to wrap up sandwiches, cover bowls of leftovers, or even wrap up a loaf of bread.
One of the best things about beeswax wraps is that they are washable and reusable. After using them, simply wash them with cool water and mild soap, then hang them up to dry. You can use them again and again, which means you’ll be reducing your waste and saving money in the long run.
Beeswax wraps are also a great way to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals. Unlike plastic wrap and aluminum foil, beeswax wraps are made from all-natural materials. Plus, they don’t leach harmful chemicals into your food like plastic wrap can.
Overall, beeswax wraps are a simple and effective way to make your home more sustainable. By using them instead of plastic wrap or aluminum foil, you’ll be reducing your waste, saving money, and protecting your health.
13. Buy Energy-Efficient Appliances
When it comes to making your hipster home more sustainable, buying energy-efficient appliances is a great place to start. Not only will you be reducing your carbon footprint, but you’ll also save money on your energy bills in the long run.
Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, which means they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. These appliances use less energy than standard models, which can save you up to 30% on your energy bills.
When shopping for appliances, consider the size and features you really need. Larger appliances use more energy, so if you don’t need a huge fridge or dishwasher, opt for a smaller size. Also, look for appliances with features like a delay start or energy-saving mode, which can help reduce energy consumption.
In addition to the kitchen, consider upgrading your heating and cooling systems to more energy-efficient models. This can significantly reduce your home’s energy consumption and lower your energy bills. With these simple steps, you can make your hipster home more sustainable and energy-efficient.
14. Switch to Cloth Napkins
If you’re looking for a simple yet impactful way to make your hipster home more sustainable, consider switching to cloth napkins. Not only are they eco-friendly, but they also add a touch of style and sophistication to your dining table.
By using cloth napkins, you can significantly reduce your household waste and help protect the environment. You can choose from a variety of sustainable materials such as organic cotton, linen, or bamboo. These materials are not only durable but also soft and comfortable to use.
To make the switch, start by investing in a set of cloth napkins that match your style and taste. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns, and designs to suit your preference. Once you have your cloth napkins, simply use them in place of paper napkins at meal times.
After use, simply toss them in the laundry to clean them. You can choose to wash them by hand or in the washing machine, depending on the material. By using cloth napkins, you’ll not only save money in the long run but also help reduce your environmental footprint.
15. Use a Compost Bin
Using a compost bin is a great way to reduce your waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your plants. Composting is a natural process that breaks down organic materials, such as food scraps and yard waste, into a nutrient-rich soil amendment.
To start composting, you will need a compost bin. You can either buy one or make your own using materials like wood, wire mesh, or plastic. Once you have your bin, place it in a convenient location that is easily accessible and receives plenty of sunlight.
Next, start collecting your food scraps and yard waste. Some examples of items you can compost include fruit and vegetable scraps, eggshells, coffee grounds, leaves, and grass clippings. Avoid composting meat, dairy, and oily foods, as they can attract pests and slow down the composting process.
When adding materials to your compost bin, make sure to mix them together to promote airflow and prevent clumping. You can also add a compost starter to help speed up the process.
Over time, your compost will break down into a nutrient-rich soil amendment that you can use in your garden or potted plants. Composting is a simple and effective way to reduce your waste and create a more sustainable home.
16. Choose Non-Toxic Paint
When it comes to making your hipster home more sustainable, choosing non-toxic paint is a great place to start. Traditional paints can contain harmful chemicals, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), that can negatively affect your indoor air quality and your health.
Instead, opt for low-VOC or zero-VOC paints, which are made with fewer harmful chemicals. You can also choose natural paints made from ingredients like clay, milk, and plant oils. These eco-friendly alternatives not only contribute to healthier indoor air quality but also have less environmental impact.
When selecting sustainable paint, consider factors such as VOC content, natural ingredients, and recycled content. Water-based paints like latex and acrylic are generally safer than oil-based formulas. The fewer additives, the better in terms of eco-safety.
There are many non-toxic paint brands available on the market today. Earth Pigments offers a range of mineral-based pigments and additives that can be used to create custom, non-toxic paint formulas. AURO Plantodecor Premium is a vegan and eco-friendly interior paint that contains plant-derived ingredients. There are also zero-VOC paint brands like ECOS Paints that deliver excellent flow and leveling.
By choosing non-toxic paint, you can create a beautiful and sustainable living space that is both healthy for you and the environment.
17. Install a Rainwater Harvesting System
If you want to reduce your water bills and make your home more sustainable, consider installing a rainwater harvesting system. This system collects rainwater from your roof and stores it in a tank for later use. You can use this water for flushing toilets, watering plants, and even washing clothes.
Installing a rainwater harvesting system is easy and affordable. You can buy a ready-made system or build your own using simple materials like PVC pipes and tanks. You can also choose from different types of systems, such as rooftop harvesting and underground harvesting.
One of the benefits of rainwater harvesting is that it reduces the demand for municipal water. This means less strain on the water supply and a lower risk of water shortages. It also reduces the amount of stormwater runoff, which can cause erosion and pollution.
In addition to being environmentally friendly, rainwater harvesting can also save you money in the long run. With a rainwater harvesting system, you can reduce your water bills and even earn credits from your local water authority. So, if you want to make your home more sustainable and save money at the same time, consider installing a rainwater harvesting system.
