Make These Small Changes to Become Eco-Friendly At Home

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via Medley Home

The conversation of ocean pollution and climate change gives the impression of insurmountable issues for one person to resolve.  It's easy to think of the big changes, such as installing solar panels, changing all of your appliances to Energy Star appliances, and swapping out old windows for all new energy-efficient windows.  That is overwhelming.

However, each person can make small changes that add up to savings for your budget and for the environment.  Once you have seen the success of the small change, you can then move on to the next change.

1. Zero Waste Tips for Beginners

Reusable shopping bags help lessen the amount of litter on land and in the ocean.  You can buy one bag at a time, or acquire an entire stash all at once.

Dryer balls cut down on drying time, which saves on energy usage and, therefore, your budget.  They also are made free from harsh chemicals.  No chemicals translates to being ideal for those with skin sensitivities and allergies.

Another note for dryer balls is that the ones pictured above, in particular, are locally sourced from US Farmers.  This equates to yet another savings in energy usage because the materials and finished products travel less.

Lastly, composting is another way to start making eco-friendly changes.  Composting, in simple terms, is similar to recycling and reusing your food scraps.  As in recycling, you start off by using a composting bin.  The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers great information on how to get started composting at home.

2. Switch to LED bulbs.

via Amazon: 

Sylvania Daylight LED Light Bulbs

(made in the USA with US and global parts)

Each of these LED light bulbs can replace up to 11,000 hours of incandescent bulbs.  Because they use less energy, you will save money on your energy bill.  They produce a white, daylight color based on a temperature of 5000K.  (K=Kelvin, the measurement of the color of the light)

According to Sylvania, the assembly of these bulbs creates over 200 American jobs,

3. Drying Rack

via Amazon: 

Pennsylvania Woodworks Drying Rack

This drying rack is made from heavy-duty maple hardwood.  This allows it to hold full loads of wet laundry without wobbling.  You can even use it to dry cloth diapers, outside if possible.  It is made in Pennsylvania's Amish Country with furniture-quality construction.  

While it stands at 52 inches high, it also folds down flat quickly and can be stored under the bed, under the couch or even a closet.  Because it comes already assembled, you can use it as soon as you receive it.

4. Surge Protector

via Amazon: Zero Surge Plug-In Surge Protector 

A surge protector redirects voltage away from your equipment, such as during a storm.  It accomplishes this without causing wear or deterioration to your electronics.  With the increasing number of devices that are kept in a home at any given moment, having a surge protector (and extra outlets) adds premium real estate for all of your plug-ins, so to speak.

5. Rain Barrel

via Amazon: 

Gardener's Supply Company Rain Barrel

A rain barrel captures rain water for future use, such as watering your lawn or washing your car.  This saves energy use and money on your water bill.  The rain barrel is made to be UV-stable and is scratch- and chip-resistant.

Some rain barrels look like unsightly barrels sitting in your yard.  Gardener's Supply's rain barrel has a stylish appearance, making it more attractive in any yard.

Conclusion

Finding eco-friendly products made in the USA to get you started on being more energy efficient may pose a challenge, but with challenge comes change.  

☝How will YOU be part of the change?

Always remember: Nobody appreciates you and your business more than the people behind the made in the USA name!