Try reusable filter for greener cup of coffee
Researchers at the University of Quebec at Chicoutimi recently conducted a study to figure out the absolute greenest way to produce a cup of coffee at home. They found that brewing coffee through a traditional coffee maker with a disposable paper filter has the highest carbon footprint, due to the waste of the filter, the energy to heat up the water and the likelihood that not all of the coffee will actually be consumed. To green your routine, invest in a reusable metal filter and brew smaller amounts. And instant coffee (there are some good ones out there) was the clear winner for producing the least waste.
EASY REFRESH
Who knew that one of the best ways to refresh the air isn’t with chemical-loaded spray air fresheners, but with a plant? The sansevieria plant — also known as the snake plant — is a succulent that NASA discovered could absorb more than 107 air pollutants, carbon monoxide and nitrogen monoxide. It’s also incredibly easy to grow, needing little water and light. And unlike most plants, it continues to produce oxygen at night, too. It’s a real winner to keep in your home.
SLEEP EASY
Soaring utility bills in the winter are enough to keep many people awake at night. So how about just one thing you can do to cut your energy costs in the cooler months and get a great sleep? According to the National Sleep Foundation, a room temperature of 60 to 67 degrees is ideal for the most comfortable sleep. That means lowering your thermostat for eight hours of rest not only can help you sleep better, it also can save you money. What a win-win!
REPURPOSE MAKEUP
Beauty products can still be used in new and different ways well after they’ve been opened or expired. A clean mascara brush, for example, can be used to scrub in between stones in jewelry or watch links to clean away dirt and debris. Unwanted nail polish (perhaps the color was not to your liking) can be used to “paint” the stems of wine glasses to give them personality and color. And lipstick that broke can be melted in a microwavesafe dish for 20 seconds, poured into a clean tin (like a small mint tin) and applied to the lips with a brush or
UNPLUG YOUR ROUTER
Many homes today have wireless internet streaming all over the house, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Make the pledge to turn off your wireless router each and every night to cut down on electrical use and to help prevent long-term wear.
STEAM AWAY GERMS
Portable steamers have become popular because they use tap water to remove wrinkles in clothes, but they can be a great way to sanitize against bacteria and other illness-causing germs in unexpected places, too. Try steaming pet beds, mattresses and the interior of your car; the hot steam will blast away germs and dust mites, and it will even help freshen upholstered surfaces that are normally impossible to clean. Throw pillows without a zipper are also great to steam clean and sanitize. Toilets, sink handles and other high-touch surfaces should be sanitized on a regular basis.
UPDATE BLINDS
Are you looking for new blinds to cover your window? Consider ones that look good and save energy, too. Cellular shades are a winner because they feature a unique airtrapping, honeycomb design that can significantly increase the energy efficiency of your windows. You can also find shades that feature “blackout” technology that helps keep light out, which is perfect for any room you need to keep dark for sleep or during the day when a baby naps. With so many colors, fabrics and design options to choose from, it’s easy to find cellular shades to match any home decor.