For many, spring is a time for deep cleaning. Before you start throwing things out, think about how they can be upcycled or reused. It’s also a good time to see what you can do to lower your home’s energy usage. Small, manageable changes can lead to effective low-waste solutions. Here are some ideas to get started.

Reduce electricity usage

There are many ways to reduce your electricity usage. These strategies are beneficial to the planet and can lower your utility bills. Puget Sound Energy has a PSE Flex program to help manage energy usage during peak hours. Those participating can earn rewards and rebates for managing energy usage during peak times. One example is using a smart thermostat. 

LED lights will also save energy. They use an average of 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs. Another strategy is to unplug unused appliances so they don’t continue to draw energy. Speaking of appliances, you may want to invest in ENERGY STAR appliances. These appliances meet strict energy requirements set forth by government agencies and can significantly reduce water and energy usage.

Re-use natural resources wisely

Another easy low-waste solution is to reuse natural resources. There are a few ways to do this naturally in the Pacific Northwest. First and foremost, our wet weather makes rainwater collection a viable option. Check local rules and governances on rainwater collection since it might not be safe to drink. However, the water can be safely used in your garden during sunnier months.

Composting is another way to reuse food waste. Your fruit and vegetable scraps, egg shells and coffee grounds can be mixed with dry leaves and cut grass to create a rich soil for your garden. Check out our beginner’s guide to composting. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency has a wonderful composting resource.

Limit single-use products and plastics

More and more merchandise is coming out that helps reduce the need for single-use products. One example is the Swedish dish cloth, which is reusable and compostable. According to their website, a single Swedish dish cloth can replace the need for 17 rolls of paper towels. Similarly, cloth napkins are a great alternative to paper napkins since they can be washed and reused repeatedly for years. Imagine how these two items alone can reduce the amount of trash in your home. These are simple, cost effective low-waste solutions.

Choosing a reusable water bottle over a single-use plastic water bottle can also make a big difference over time. In fact, Americans buy approximately, 50 billion water bottles each year. That’s about 13 bottles per month, per person in the United States alone. So, simply by switching to a reusable water bottle, you could save an average of 156 plastic bottles each year.

Single-use plastics are something you can easily avoid in many forms. Try switching to compostable resealable bags. By no longer purchasing plastic sandwich bags, you’re reducing your use of single plastics and saving money by reusing the compostable ones. Instead of using plastic wrap, try American made Bee’s Wrap, which is made of beeswax, organic cotton, plant oil, and tree resin. Together, these ingredients make a malleable food wrap that you can hand wash and reuse many times. After about a year of usage, you can compost it. According to their website, one pack of Bee’s Wrap can save 1,667 sq. feet of plastic wrap from ending up in our oceans and landfills annually. 

Recycle and save what you can

There is an amazing amount of material that can be recycled. Check out Kitsap County government’s website: Waste Wizard. Type in what you’re looking to dispose of and see if it can be recycled and which local facilities will accept it as a donation. Also, check out these ideas to save energy in your household, such as line-drying clothes on sunny days and considering solar panels.

Finally, don’t throw away what can be saved. If it’s a broken appliance or another household item, see if you can repair it first. Kitsap County hosts Fix-it Fairs for mending and repairing goods. Participants can bring two items looking to be salvaged, and a crew of handy volunteers will work to repair the piece.

Repurpose and upcycle

Are you crafty or do you enjoy a challenge? Instead of throwing out a piece of furniture or decorative item, consider repurposing it. Architectural Digest offers a wealth of repurposed furniture inspiration. Repurpose a bedside table, using it as a plant stand instead. Paint an old dresser and add new hardware to give it new life while matching your home’s décor. There are many ways to repurpose or upcycle your home furniture to keep it out of a landfill. Old shutters can be used as cabinet doors. A wood pallet can become a patio table. Simply reuse paper bags or old cloth scraps as wrapping paper. Check out these clever ideas to upcycle other items in your home. 

Whether it’s saving energy, conserving natural resources, or saving household items, there are a plethora of ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Try a few of these low-waste solutions this season and have fun discovering new ways to freshen up your home with our planet in mind.