Taking care of our homes is taking care of us. The places where we rest our heads at night and raise our families should be healthy and free of harmful toxins and chemicals. Unfortunately, many popular building materials contain these harmful toxins and chemicals. Exposing ourselves and our families to these dangerous materials can have long-term negative health effects.
There are many reasons to use natural materials in your home. Not only accomplish they look beautiful, but they also have several health benefits. This blog post will concern 11 of the most acceptable reasons to use natural materials in your home. From enhancing air quality to reducing stress levels, there are many satisfactory reasons to switch to natural materials!
Renewable
Renewable resources are important because they can be replenished relatively quickly. This is in contrast to non-renewable resources, like fossil fuels, which assume millions of years to institute and cannot be replaced once they’re gone. Using renewable resources helps ensure that future generations have the same access to them as we do. For example, area rugs are often made of natural materials like jute and seagrass, which can be easily replaced.
Sustainable
When it comes to building or furnishing a home, there are endless choices of materials available. But not all materials are created equal. Synthetic materials, for example, are often made from non-renewable fossil fuels and can off-gas harmful chemicals into the air. On the other hand, natural materials are renewable and typically don’t release VOCs (volatile organic compounds). So if you’re looking for sustainable and healthy reasons to manipulate natural materials in your home, here are occasional of the most profitable ones.
Wood is perhaps the most versatile of all-natural materials. It can be used for everything from flooring and furniture to cabinetry and trim. And because it’s a renewable resource, wood is an environmentally friendly choice that will help reduce your carbon footprint.
Bamboo is another great option for sustainable wood products. It’s a fast-growing grass that doesn’t require pesticides or fertilizers to thrive. Bamboo is also stronger than many types of wood, making it ideal for flooring, furniture, and cabinetry.
There are also many sustainable options for fabrics made from natural fibers. Cotton, linen, wool, and hemp are all significant choices for upholstery, curtains, and bedding.
Biodegradable
As more and more people become mindful of the problems caused by unsustainable building practices, there is an increasing interest in using natural materials in the home. Biodegradable materials such as bamboo, wool, cotton, and wood are environmentally friendly and have other benefits. For example, natural materials are often more durable than synthetic counterparts, and they can help to enhance indoor air quality by reducing mold and mildew growth. In addition, natural materials often have a more pleasing appearance than synthetic materials, and they can add a sense of warmth to a room.
They don’t off-gas toxic chemicals
It’s no secret that the quality of the air we breathe directly impacts our health. In fact, according to the EPA, indoor air can be up to five junctures more contaminated than outdoor air. One way to improve indoor air quality is to choose natural materials for your home instead of synthetic materials. Natural materials, such as wool and cotton, off-gas fewer toxic chemicals than synthetic materials like polyester and nylon.
Improve indoor air quality
Indoor air quality is important because we spend most of our time indoors, where exposure to harmful toxins and chemicals is more likely. Poor indoor air differentia has been attached to several health problems, including respiratory illnesses, heart disease, and cancer. For example, sisal and jute rugs are made from natural fibers, so they don’t contain toxins or chemicals.
Fire-resistant
As anyone who has ever been through a fire knows, the damage can be devastating. Not only does it destroy property, but it can also cause serious injuries and even fatalities. One way to support and reduce fire risk is to utilize unpretending materials in your home. Stone, brick, and tile are all excellent choices because they are non-combustible and have a high heat capacity, meaning they can withstand high temperatures without catching fire.
They add to the aesthetic of the home
Natural materials can add warmth and attractiveness to any room in your house. Whether you choose bamboo flooring or cotton curtains, natural materials can enhance the look of your space and create an inviting atmosphere. For example, a natural jute rug can bring texture and depth to a room, while wooden furniture adds character.
They resist mold and mildew
Mold and mildew are common problems in both homes and commercial buildings. Mold and mildew can cause several health problems, including respiratory infections, headaches, and fatigue. In addition, mold and mildew can damage building materials, making them more difficult and costly to repair or replace. For example, natural materials like cork, stone, and even linoleum can resist mold growth due to their unique properties.
Environmentally friendly
Environmentally friendly materials are important because they help reduce our impact on the planet . Using environmentally friendly materials helps conserve resources, reduce pollution, and slow climate change. For example, cork and bamboo are renewable resources that can be sustainably harvested without damaging forests.
Last Longer
Natural materials often last longer than their synthetic counterparts because they aren’t subject to the same wear and tear. This is important because it means we won’t have to replace them as often, saving both money and resources in the long run. For example, wool carpets and rugs are naturally resilient and hard-wearing, making them a great choice for high-traffic areas.
Natural light shines brighter
Natural light is important for our physical and mental health. Orientation to natural light has been linked to increased vitamin D levels, essential for strong bones and a healthy immune system. In addition, natural sunshine has been shown to boost moods, improve concentration, and fight fatigue. For example, choose light-colored curtains or shades that allow plenty of natural sunshine when considering window treatments.
Conclusion
Comment below on some of your favorite natural materials to use in the home.
These days, it’s more meaningful than ever to be conscious of our choices impacting our personal and the planet’s health. Fortunately, there are many easy ways to make healthier choices without sacrificing style or comfort. Using natural materials in your home is one way to do this; it’s good for you, your family, and the environment too! So next time you need new flooring, cabinets, or countertops, consider using one of these 11 healthy alternatives instead! RugKnots has a variety of natural materials-based rugs to choose from to help you create your dream home. Check out their selection today and make the switch to healthier living!