How to Stay Warm This Winter the Eco-Friendly Way
Gas and electricity prices are always on the rise, not to mention that they are not very eco-friendly ways to heat your home during the winter. Instead of turning your thermostat up, consider these eco-conscious options that will keep you just as warm.
Insulation for your house is key
By having lots of insulation in your home, it will trap any heat that enters inside and keep it there. However, most insulation is toxin ridden that horrible for you and the earth. There are several different options for eco-friendly insulation, the most popular being cellulose. Cellulose is made out of 100% recycled newspaper /cardboard combination. Fiber glass insulation manufactures have starting using increasing amounts of recycled materials and recycled up to 40% more of material by weight than and other type of insulation. Other types of earth friendly insulations include those made of natural fibers like UltraTouch, which is made out of 85% post-industrial recycled natural fibers and is free of any toxins making it harm-free for the earth. Mineral wool that is formaldehyde free has recently become popular as well. Also, look for the GreenGuard Label when purchasing your insulation. This label certifies that formaldehyde levels are less than .05 per million particles of air, which is very clean. In general, the more you insulate your home, the less money you’ll have to spend on heating it up!
Cover all the Doors
Doors are notorious for letting cold air in from the cracks on the bottom of the door. A simple solution is to take an old towel or small blanket and roll it up length wise to cover the base of the door. This will stop any drafts from the outside from coming entering and will keep the heat inside. You can also buy “snake charmers” or draft guards, which do the exact same thing, but look a little nicer than an old towel.
Reverse The Ceiling Fan
Turn your fan to rotate clockwise and put it at a low speed. This will allow the warm air that is in your house to circulate, especially the heat coming from the oven, or wood burning fireplaces that don’t circulate heat very well.
Blanket, Blankets, Blankets
Simply put, if you use more blankets and turn down the heat, it will be a lot easier on your wallet, your health and your earth. Remember that there are many different green options to choose from when looking for that perfect blanket that will keep you nice and toasty:
- Organic Bamboo
- Organic Cotton
- Organic Wool
- Chlorine Free
- Dye Free
- Handmade
- Fair Trade
- Sweatshop Free
- Fleece made from 100% recycled plastic
- Recycled/Reclaimed fabric from old shirts, blanket, etc
Many popular stores have eco-friendly blanket options – read the labels and do your research. Or ask your favorite aunt if she is up for crocheting an awesome afghan, which you’re sure to have the rest of your life!
Remember to bundle up outside!
Layers are a necessity for blizzard -like conditions and having a warm jacket is the best start. Many eco-conscious companies are taking great strides in producing winter gear made from everything from bamboo to coconut husks. There are even jackets out there that can “grow” with your kid – which means less jackets and less waste. The ultimate in winter gear is thermal underwear. It is another must have for staying warm in freezing temperatures. Look for performance underwear that will keep moisture away from your skin while keeping you warm.
Guffly is your source for stylish products and unique gifts that ease your shopping conscience by being eco friendly or fair trade. The website features one new Daily Guff at an extra affordable price each and every weekday. Guffly features creative goods ranging from personal accessories, home goods, clothing, office & desk accessories, to pet accessories. The team happens to think that making stylish and modern purchasing decisions doesn’t have to mean using excess resources, filling up landfills, or relying on unfair labor. Check Guffly out at http://guffly.com/
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This was a pertinent post. a fabulous article with an amazing level of detail! If your home is drafty or not well-insulated it could cost you hundreds of dollars a year as you attempt to stay warm. It may also affect your health. While sitting in a draft does not make you sick, you should take notice if you feel chilled.
- Shane
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