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In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards eco-friendly living and sustainable design. This includes incorporating eco-friendly elements into every aspect of your home, including the kitchen, to reflect your commitment to sustainability.
If you’re looking for some kitchen inspiration to make your kitchen greener, this article will help you out. The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home; by bringing it closer to nature you can create a space that not only looks beautiful, but also promotes a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.
Sustainable materials for a greener kitchen
When it comes to creating a greener kitchen, opting for nordic kitchen practices of using sustainable materials is a great way to reduce your environmental impact. Here are some sustainable materials you can consider for your kitchen:
- Bamboo: a fast-growing and renewable resource that can be used for flooring, cabinets and countertops. Bamboo is durable, water-resistant and has a natural beauty.
- Reclaimed wood: salvaged from old buildings, barns or other sources, this is a great choice for cabinets, flooring or countertops. Reclaimed wood will add character to your kitchen, while reducing the demand for new timber.
- Natural stone: opt for locally sourced and responsibly quarried natural stone, such as granite or marble. Look for suppliers that follow sustainable practices and prioritise worker safety.
Remember, sustainable materials are just one aspect of creating a greener kitchen. It’s also important to consider energy-efficient appliances, proper insulation and waste reduction practices to make your kitchen more environmentally friendly.
Natural and non-toxic cleaning solutions
Making natural and non-toxic cleaning solutions for an eco-friendly kitchen is easier than you might think.
To make an all-purpose cleaner, mix equal parts white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Add a few drops of essential oil (such as lemon or tea tree) for a pleasant scent. You can use this solution to clean countertops, appliances and other surfaces.
To make a grease cutter, combine one part baking soda with two parts water to make a paste which you can then apply to greasy surfaces such as stovetops or oven interiors. Let it sit for a few minutes, then wipe with a sponge or cloth.
To make an eco-friendly glass cleaner, mix one cup water with one cup rubbing alcohol and one tablespoon white vinegar. Pour the solution into a spray bottle, then spray onto glass surfaces and wipe clean with a microfibre cloth.
You can make dishwashing liquid by mixing one cup liquid Castile soap with one cup water. Add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance and use this mixture as you would any other dish soap.
Remember to always test these solutions on a small, inconspicuous area before using them on larger surfaces. You should always avoid mixing vinegar with bleach or hydrogen peroxide, because it can create harmful fumes.
Incorporating nature indoors
Creating a greener kitchen can also involve incorporating elements of nature into your indoor space. Introducing indoor plants to your kitchen will help to make the space feel fresh and vibrant.
You can even create a small herb garden on your kitchen windowsill or countertop. This not only adds greenery, but also provides fresh herbs for cooking. Alternatively, you could install a living wall or vertical garden in your kitchen. This vertical arrangement of plants can provide a stunning visual element while also improving air quality.
It’s also definitely worth trying to maximise natural light in a kitchen. Natural light will brighten up the space, and also connect you to the outside world. Try to keep windows unobstructed, and use sheer curtains or blinds.
Choosing colours inspired by nature for your kitchen walls, cabinets, and accessories will create a calming and soothing environment. Earthy tones, greens and blues all work well.
You can also use natural textures to bring the outdoors into your kitchen. Woven baskets, jute rugs, or cork boards will add depth, texture, and a tactile connection to nature.
The key to creating an eco-friendly kitchen is to use sustainable materials and elements that create a harmonious connection between the indoors and outdoors. Tick these boxes and you’re well on the way to a greener kitchen.
The post Eco-friendly kitchen: bringing the hearth closer to nature appeared first on Growing Family.
