Decorating your home can be a fun and creative process, but it can also be incredibly overwhelming. There are lots of different things to consider: your budget, your taste and preferences, and your vision for how the whole home will come together. On top of all this, there’s the question of how to find eco-friendly items–things that will last a long time, keep harmful chemicals out of your house, and are made using materials and processes that minimize harmful environmental impacts, which can be difficult if you live in the United States(that’s a topic for another day).
Shopping for sustainable products doesn’t have to be complicated; you just need to know what to look for. That’s why we’ve rounded up a list of 11 sustainable home decor pieces to get you started. Linked throughout, you’ll find many sustainable home decor brands committed to using high-quality, natural materials and ethical sourcing and production.
- Organic cotton bedding
Organic cotton bedding embodies the essence of sustainable comfort, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to create an eco-friendly haven within their homes. Unlike conventional cotton, which is cultivated with heavy pesticide and chemical usage, organic cotton is grown without synthetic fertilizers and harmful pesticides. This cultivation process reduces the environmental impact and promotes soil health, making it a responsible choice for conscious consumers.
Choosing organic cotton bedding benefits the planet and contributes to a healthier indoor environment. The absence of chemical residues in the fabric means that you’re enveloping yourself in a naturally pure and hypoallergenic material. This is particularly helpful if you have sensitive skin or allergies, as the bedding is free from harsh substances that might trigger flare-ups.
Beyond its sustainable and health-conscious attributes, organic cotton bedding also offers exceptional comfort. The fabric tends to be softer and more breathable than its conventionally grown counterpart, ensuring a restful night’s sleep. Its durability ensures that your investment in these sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers will stand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements and, in turn, lessening your overall environmental footprint.
- Hemp area rug
A hemp area rug is a distinctive and environmentally conscious home decor piece that will make your living area stand out. Crafted from hemp plant fibers, this rug offers a unique texture that blends seamlessly with various interior styles while positively impacting the environment.
Hemp, a rapidly renewable resource, requires minimal water and pesticides to grow, reducing its ecological footprint compared to conventional rug materials. By opting for a hemp area rug, you’re actively supporting a more sustainable approach to production, which ultimately contributes to the preservation of our planet’s resources.
Plus, one of the standout qualities of hemp rugs is their durability. The fibers are inherently sturdy and resistant to wear, making them an excellent long-term investment. The rug’s longevity means fewer replacements, reducing waste and consumption over time. Hemp rugs also boast natural hypoallergenic properties, making them healthier for your home environment. These rugs don’t trap dust or allergens as readily as other materials might, promoting better air quality and comfort, particularly for those with sensitivities.
- Upcycled fabric throw pillows
Upcycled fabric throw pillows (or even throw blankets) are one of the best options for a creative and environmentally responsible way to adorn your living spaces. These pillows are a testament to the beauty of repurposing and sustainability, as they are crafted from discarded or surplus fabrics that would otherwise contribute to landfill waste. You can spend an afternoon crafting and making your own or browse Etsy for one-of-a-kind pillows made by talented artists, often featuring various colors, patterns, and textures that blend seamlessly into various decor themes.
By choosing upcycled fabric throw pillows, you’re embracing a unique and eclectic aesthetic while actively reducing the demand for new raw materials and energy-intensive production processes. Each unique pillow becomes a conversation piece, reflecting a conscious choice to divert textiles from the waste stream and give them a new life. You not only elevate your interior style but also contribute to a circular economy where nothing goes to waste!
- Bamboo wall art
Bamboo wall art is the epitome of beauty created from natural materials, making it a compelling decorative choice for those committed to creating an eco-friendly home. Bamboo, renowned for its rapid growth and renewability, is an ideal medium for artistic expression that harmonizes with environmental consciousness.
The intricate patterns and textures captured in bamboo wall art evoke a sense of tranquility and connection with nature. Each piece showcases the unique characteristics of this resilient plant, inviting a touch of the outdoors into your living space while celebrating the aesthetic potential of sustainable materials. Best of all, you can feel good about your choice in art–you’re contributing to reducing deforestation and the carbon footprint, as bamboo cultivation requires significantly less land and resources compared to traditional wood sources.
Beyond this, bamboo’s strength and durability ensure that your wall art will maintain its integrity over time, granting you a lasting and meaningful decorative element. Bamboo’s elegance and versatility seamlessly complement a wide range of interior styles, from modern to rustic, adding a touch of sustainable sophistication to your surroundings and modern design.
- Soy candles
Soy candles offer your home some dreamy, ambient lighting via natural materials, and are a cleaner, greener alternative to traditional candles. They’re crafted from renewable soybean oil, a stark departure from paraffin candles derived from fossil fuels. This is because the cultivation of soybeans requires less intensive farming methods compared to petroleum-based alternatives, contributing to soil health and diminishing carbon emissions.
Soy candles also burn cleaner and longer than traditional paraffin candles, emitting fewer toxins and pollutants into the air. In addition to doing your part for the broader environment, you’ll contribute to better indoor air quality for your home.
Soy candles come in a wide range of scents and aesthetic designs, allowing you to curate a soothing ambiance that aligns with your personal style and the interior design of your home. Every time you see their soft, warm glow, you’ll be reminded of your commitment to curating an eco-friendly home and life.
- Reclaimed wood coffee table
A reclaimed wood coffee table is a perfect choice for an eco-friendly home, embodying the principles of good design and sustainable craftsmanship. Crafted from salvaged wood, each piece tells a unique story while simultaneously contributing to a more responsible approach to furnishing.
These coffee tables use repurposed wood that has been sourced from previous structures or discarded materials, which actively minimizes the demand for new timber and helps to mitigate the environmental impact associated with logging. By choosing a reclaimed wood coffee table, you’re contributing to reducing deforestation and conserving natural resources.
In addition to being environmentally friendly, these coffee tables are also often extremely beautiful! The character and patina of reclaimed wood add a distinct charm to your living space, creating a sense of rustic authenticity. Plus, these tables can be exceptionally durable. The wood’s weathered nature can also enhance its structural integrity, leading to longevity that will ensure you don’t need to replace the table any time soon.
- Plant-based woven baskets
Plant-based woven baskets encapsulate the harmonious blend of traditional techniques and nature-inspired design, making them the perfect addition to your sustainable home decor. Crafted from renewable materials such as seagrass, jute, or banana fibers, these baskets represent a conscious step towards reducing plastic consumption and supporting eco-conscious production methods.
Beyond their visual appeal, these baskets also offer versatile storage solutions for various items around your home. Whether used as plant holders, toy organizers, or decorative accents, they seamlessly combine function with style.
When shopping, you can also look for woven baskets created by artisans living in communities that rely on traditional weaving techniques. In this way, your decor becomes an avenue to preserve cultural heritage while promoting fair trade practices. Just make sure the brand you’re buying from has transparent information about their supply chain and how they pay artisans!
- Natural table linens
If you love to host people for dinner, natural table linens are a must for your eco-friendly home. Crafted from materials like organic cotton, linen, or hemp, these linens encapsulate the beauty of nature while aligning with a commitment to sustainable living. Their durability ensures they can be cherished for years, diminishing the need for frequent replacements and, in turn, reducing your overall carbon footprint.
Choosing natural table linens allows you to embrace products that are devoid of harmful chemicals and synthetic additives. They’re often minimally processed, preserving their inherent textures and hues, and allowing the authenticity of the materials to shine through. Plus, they contribute to reducing the environmental impact associated with conventional textile production. The cultivation of natural fibers requires less water, reduces pesticide use, and supports responsible agricultural practices.
- Non-toxic, minimalist cookware
For the chef of the house, non-toxic, minimalist cookware will make their life infinitely easier, all while contributing to a more sustainable planet. Characterized by clean lines, functional design, and a focus on essential cooking needs, minimalist cookware aligns seamlessly with the principles of conscious consumption and reduced waste.
Non-toxic cookware is any cookware made without the use of nonstick coatings, like PFAS. This means any cookware that is made of stainless steel, cast iron, carbon steel, and some ceramics. Non-toxic cookware is better for the environment and for your health!
Minimalist cookware refers to pieces that are thoughtfully curated to serve multiple purposes, promoting efficiency and streamlining your culinary endeavors. Choosing minimalist cookware reflects a deliberate move away from excessive kitchen gadgets and disposable items. By adopting a less-is-more approach, you’re actively reducing clutter and encouraging mindful consumption.
Investing in minimalist cookware contributes to a more sustainable kitchen ecosystem. Many of these pieces are durably crafted from high-quality materials that stand the test of time, reducing the need for frequent replacements and curbing unnecessary resource consumption. Their timeless design means they remain relevant, minimizing the cycle of consumption and disposal that plagues less durable options.
- Recycled glass vases
Recycled glass vases are the perfect artistic home decor piece for the eco-conscious. Crafted from reclaimed glass materials, each vase boasts a unique history and character that adds a touch of sustainable elegance to your living spaces.
The purchase of recycled glass vases supports the broader circular economy, wherein materials are reused, reimagined, and reborn as stunning decorative pieces. By repurposing discarded glass, these vases play a pivotal role in diminishing the demand for new raw materials and energy-intensive production processes, while reducing the burden on landfills.
Beyond their environmental benefits, recycled glass vases elevate your decor with their shimmering transparency and ethereal beauty. These pieces often exhibit subtle variations in color and texture, reflecting the innate artistry of the recycling process and showcasing the beautiful power of sustainable design.
- Bamboo lamp shade or light fixture
A bohemian piece offering an ambient lighting solution, a bamboo lamp shade or light fixture is the perfect addition to your bedroom, living room, or dining room. Crafted from sustainable bamboo, its unique texture lends a touch of nature to your space, transforming your lighting fixtures into beautiful focal points.
As we mentioned earlier, bamboo is an incredibly eco-friendly material. Bamboo is known for its rapid growth and minimal environmental impact, as it doesn’t require fertilizer and self-regenerates from its own root system. By choosing this option, you’ll actively contribute to the preservation of forests and support responsible sourcing.
Happy shopping!
With all the eco-friendly options available today, it shouldn’t be too hard to find home decor items that reflect your values. Plus, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Many thrift stores or antique local businesses offer eco-friendly materials compared to large commercial stores that are used to overproduction—so we recommend you give them a shot. The important thing is to enjoy decorating your home in a way that reflects your personal style while keeping Mother Earth in mind!
