Your bathroom can look fabulous and be eco-friendly at the same time, using eco-friendly, sustainable methods that protect our world and help you sleep a little easier at night.
But although people often use the words ecological and sustainable interchangeably, it's important to know that there is a distinct difference between these options.
Sustainable Resources
Concrete, glass, steel, stone and plastic are examples of sustainable materials. In general, they are materials that we can use in large quantities over a long period of time with planning and development. Sustainable building materials include renewable green materials such as mud, straw, wood, recycled products and renewable materials.
It is important to understand that sustainable materials do not necessarily mean eco-friendly or green materials. Just because a material is sustainable doesn't mean it's necessarily also environmentally friendly. Furthermore, it is possible to be sustainable and elegant at the same time; just check out a urinal guide for some amazing options.
Eco-friendly materials
Eco is the abbreviation for ecology. The term environmentally friendly simply indicates that the product will have a positive impact – or at least will not have a negative impact – on the planet and living beings. Eco-friendly products are renewable, recyclable and do not harm the environment when we use them. This includes development and manufacturing, as well as end use.
Now that we understand some of the terminology, here are some tips you can use when tackling your bathroom remodel. However, be sure to research bathroom remodeling quotes and set a budget first; Going green can certainly save you money, but eco-friendly materials and accessories can add up if not chosen carefully.
Top tips for eco-friendly and sustainable bathrooms
Here are just a few ways you can reduce your impact on the environment when making changes to your bathroom.
Reduce water flow
One of the most common ways toilets waste resources is by wasting water – and often lots of it. One of the easiest solutions to water consumption in the bathroom is to replace taps, toilets and high-flow showers.
Showers
You can buy an eco-friendly, low-flow showerhead at any home improvement store. This simple change not only has the ability to add a new look to your bathroom, but it can also save a lot of wasted water.
The average American shower head is equipped with a high-flow water head that shoots an astonishing 2.1 gallons per minute. You can greatly reduce water waste with a new showerhead designed specifically for a lower flow rate.
Faucets
Water is wasted everywhere. Many people turn on bathroom faucets while shaving and brushing their teeth, even if they are not in use. When they do this, the water literally goes down the drain! One way to stop wasting water like this is to change your regular taps to modern taps with motion sensors. Motion sensor faucets only work if water is needed and this virtually eliminates wasted water from bathroom faucets.
Low Flow Toilets
It's no secret that toilets waste a lot of water. If you have an old toilet with a high gallon per flush, it's time to replace it with one that runs more efficiently. Today's toilets run better with less water, so opt for one that lets you choose between two different flush options. This way, you won't use more water than necessary.
Remodel with natural materials
Glass, metal, bamboo, cork and porcelain are sustainable and very environmentally friendly. Using these materials will not only give your bathroom a stunning and unique look but will also help protect the environment. These are materials that can last a long time and can also be reused, which is why they have value for a long time.
This can mean big changes to your bathroom when you decide to switch materials, but if you're planning a remodel or renovation anyway, consider using natural, sustainable materials whenever possible. You'll find it will be worth it in the long run.
Radiant heated floors
If you are remodeling your entire home, it may make sense to opt for a hydro-based system for underfloor heating. This way, you can place this energy-efficient heating solution throughout your home.
When remodeling a bathroom yourself, you can install underfloor heating using the electric version. Electric underfloor heating has the advantage of heating a specific room from the start. This type of heating is more efficient than old baseboard heating and sometimes even more efficient than forced air due to no heat loss from the ducts.
Reduce VOCs
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are released into the environment by various types of materials. Shower curtains, paint, and other bathroom items can create harmful VOCs in the environment, causing entirely preventable pollution.
- Shower Curtains Bamboo is an eco-friendly option for shower curtains because it is environmentally friendly and sustainable. It is also widely available and realistically priced. Additionally, when selecting shower curtains, choosing eco-friendly and sustainable options can significantly reduce VOCs (volatile organic compounds), providing a healthier environment in your bathroom. These curtains, made from materials like organic cotton or recycled polyester, not only contribute to a greener planet, but also add aesthetic value to your space.
- Painting Some types of paint are harmful to the environment and to the people who live in the spaces where they are used. Look for a low or no VOC paint – a choice that is better for the environment and the people who live in it.
Floors
Let's get vinyl off the list right away. Vinyl is the opposite of eco-friendly and should not be used by anyone trying to create an eco-friendly bathroom. On the other hand, tile and stone are perfect options for bathroom floors. Laminates are another option if you find the right manufacturer and a product that is water resistant, remembering that most laminates should not be used in humid areas.
Use LED bulbs
Consider replacing all of the light bulbs in your home with LED bulbs instead of compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs). Compact fluorescent light bulbs were once considered a great way to save energy, but they were later shown to cause environmental contamination due to the toxic materials used to make them.
We hope you put these tips into practice and look for others that will help you do even more for the environment.
