Every day more and more people are looking for ways to save money, emit fewer toxins and waste into the environment and make their homes a safer and better place to live. With that said, I’ve compiled some tips that can accomplish these goals rather easily. So let’s dig in!

We’ll start with some of the obvious ones first.

Recycle. I’m sure most of us are already doing this, but it’s always a good reminder to recycle those cans, plastic bottles, and paper products.  Hand in hand with that is to recycle goods and supplies you are no longer using, but are still in good working condition, by donating when appropriate.

Switch off those lights. When leaving a room, make sure to switch off the lights and unused appliances. Even when not in use, small appliances are still drawing energy.

Opt for LED Lightbulbs. They may be more expensive to purchase on the front end but will last longer and save both energy and money over time.

Drink tap water. If you live in an area with great drinking water, choose a cold glass of tap water over purchasing bottled water. This not only saves you money but also saves on the plastic bottle that will need to be recycled.

Now for some of the options, you may or may not have considered.

Fix leaky faucets. That drip, drip, drip is costing you money. Even the slow, seemingly nothing drip.

Monitor your thermostat. Even a few degrees, in winter or summer, can make a huge impact on your energy bill. In the summertime, make use of open windows and ceiling fans for cooling on days with amenable temperatures and leave the AC for when you need it most.

Grow your own vegetables. With the cost of food rising, you may want to consider growing your own vegetables. Even with limited space, there are many vegetables you can grow in a container garden. With a little research and set-up, you can be on your way to great produce for summer and fall.

Carry your own shopping bags. Using your own shopping bags at stores cuts down on the plastic bags that you’ll be having to store or get rid of once you’re home. Cutting down on the waste going out of your home. It’s super easy and convenient.

Try a reusable water cup or jug. Whether you’re at home or traveling, consider purchasing a reusable cup for water or your favorite drink instead of buying one in plastic containers.

Say “NO” to straws. If you really like or need a straw, consider the reusable type. There are many different ones to choose from on the market.

Go paperless whenever possible. Pay your bills online.

Stop all the junk mail. Do you still get all that unsolicited mail and flyers? Put up a sign for NO JUNK MAIL. It’s such a breath of fresh air not to have all that stuff clogging your mailbox and then having to get rid of it all.

Utilize natural cleaning solutions in your home. Did you know that baking soda and vinegar are some of the most powerful and all-around great cleaning solutions for your home? Utilizing natural solutions cuts down on all the toxic chemicals around your home and is better for all the occupants- including your pets.

Use cleaning rags instead of disposable wipes or paper towels. While it is easy to grab wipes or paper towels when cleaning, using rags or dish towels substantially cuts down on waste and can be washed and reused over and over again.

Choose pesticide-free yard options. Using pesticides on our lawns may give a perfect lawn, but it also puts those pesticides in the groundwater. Visit your local store to check out the pesticide-free options available to cover the job you need to be done.

Do you have green tips that you could add to our list? We’d love to hear from you!

For more helpful tips and real estate information, check back often and follow my Facebook page.

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Are you considering selling this spring? You can find out what your HOME is WORTH in the market today HERE.  I’d love to talk with you about your home and learn more about your current situation. For a personal consultation, please give me a call at 843-321-2158.