With smart swaps like secondhand furniture and LED lighting, you get a sustainable living room.

There are a few eco-friendly swaps you can make to make your living room “greener”. These switches can reduce waste, save energy, and create a healthier home environment.  

Avoid Fast Furniture in Your Living Room

I’ve talked about fast fashion; its cousin, fast furniture, is just as evil. Those mass-produced, budget-friendly items from big box stores are not as they seem. They are less durable, so they will break down and end up in a landfill sooner. 

The hill I die on is the most sustainable item, which is the one you already own. So don’t go and trade out all your furniture because it’s not “eco-friendly”. But when it’s time to trade out items, check out these alternatives:

• Second-hand items: Browse thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces for unique pieces with character and history. 
• Upcycled or Repurposed: Get creative! Many DIYers bring new life into old furniture. It can be as simple as putting on a coat of paint. You could also repurpose a wood spool into a coffee table. 
• Natural or Recycled Materials: Seek out pieces made from solid wood, bamboo, or recycled materials.

Power Strips to Fight Phantom Loads

Many living room electronics are major culprits of phantom loads. These loads can add up on your electric bill and waste limited resources. The simple fix is a power strip. 

Plug your devices into a smart manual power strip. With one click, you can cut off power to everything at once, ensuring nothing leeches electricity while not in use. This small change can save you energy and money. 

Light Up Your Living Room

Lighting is a massive part of your living room’s ambiance. It shouldn’t come at an extra cost to your wallet or the planet. 

Here are some tips for eco-friendly lighting:

• LED Bulbs: These use up to 80% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and are less waste.
• Warm White Tones: For cozy living spaces, choose LED’s in warm white hues. They are energy efficient and inviting. 

It doesn’t cost a lot to make these switches for a sustainable living room. By being selective with your furniture and switching to power strips and LED’s, you’re making a difference—every small step matters.