Create a living environment healthy and ecological is now a major concern for many households. A green home is not only beneficial for the planet, it also helps improve the quality of life of its occupants.

There are many ways to make your living space greener and healthier. Discover some tips in this guide to transform your home into an eco-friendly haven!

Use ecological hygiene and cleaning products

The transition to ecological hygiene and cleaning products is a fundamental step in creating a healthier and more environmentally friendly home. Conventional products are often loaded with harsh chemicals that can harm long-term health and pollute aquatic ecosystems via wastewater.

It is therefore crucial to explore natural alternatives and biodegradable such as white vinegar which is a remarkably effective multi-use product. Diluted in equal parts with water, it effectively cleans windows, mirrors and hard surfaces. For personal hygiene products, opt for certified organic cosmetics.

They must be free from parabens, sulfates, synthetic perfumes and any other harmful substances.

Vegetable oils like coconut oil or olive oil can, for example, effectively replace many skin and hair care products. For oral hygiene, consider using the refillable toothpaste from Pimpant, a brand strongly focused on ecology. It offers products which often come in the form of sachets of powder to be diluted with water.

Also consider replacing synthetic sponges with natural alternatives such as vegetable sponges or washable microfiber cloths. Every little change counts in creating a healthier, greener home environment.

Opt for sustainable and ecological building materials

The choice of materials used during construction or renovation plays a crucial role in creating a ecological and healthy house. It is essential to favor natural, renewable and minimally processed options in order to reduce the impact on the environment and preserve indoor air quality.

For insulation, prefer materials like sheep's wool, cork, cellulose wadding and other natural materials. These alternatives offer excellent thermal performance in addition to being biodegradable and environmentally friendly. For example, sheep's wool naturally regulates humidity and has flame-retardant properties.

In addition to its thermal qualities, cork is an excellent sound insulator. For structures, the FSC certified wood (Forest Stewardship Council) is a wise choice. It guarantees sustainable forest management and has a lower carbon footprint compared to materials such as concrete or steel. Bamboo is also an excellent choice because of its rapid growth.

For coatings, opt for eco-friendly products made from water or natural materials to avoid emissions of harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The floors in bamboo or natural linoleum are sustainable alternatives to synthetic coverings. Furthermore, don't forget to assess the durability of materials to avoid frequent replacement and minimize waste production. Choose quality items that will stand the test of time.

Install renewable energy systems

The integration of renewable energy systems represents a decisive step towards a truly eco-friendly home. These installations not only significantly reduce the carbon footprint, but also make substantial savings in the long term. For the electricity production, you have the choice between:

• Photovoltaic solar panels;
• Domestic wind turbines;
• The micro-hydroelectric plants.

Many systems are also available for heating and hot water production. You can opt for solutions such as geothermal or aerothermal heat pumps, as well as solar water heaters. It is important to note that the effectiveness of these systems depends greatly on insulation from your home.

So make sure your home is well insulated to maximize the benefits of these installations before investing in renewable energy.

Evaluate indoor air quality

Indoor air quality is an often overlooked aspect, yet it has a direct impact on health. To improve the air in your home, start by identifying potential sources of pollution. Chipboard or MDF furniture may emit formaldehyde which is an irritant volatile organic compound (VOC).

Synthetic carpets and conventional paints and varnishes are also common sources of VOCs. Replace all of these with natural or certified low-emission alternatives. Then install a controlled mechanical ventilation system (VMC) to renew the air efficiently.

It is also advisable to have indoor plants such as ficus, spathiphyllum or chlorophytum in the house. They are excellent natural purifiers. Even in winter, also remember to ventilate your house daily to remove accumulated humidity and pollutants.

Use energy-efficient household appliances

It is also essential to use energy-efficient appliances to make your home eco-friendly and economical. Indeed, these devices designed to consume less energy while offering optimal performance can also significantly reduce your carbon footprint and your electricity bills.

When replacing your appliances, pay particular attention to theeuropean energy label. Privilege devices classified A+++, A or B. These models use considerably less power than their lower-rated counterparts. By adopting these practices, you can make your home a healthier, greener environment.