Going green in the bathroom is not all about penny pinching – it’s very much about making a statement and making practical changes to your lifestyle. And while green is very much in vogue in all spheres of our lives, the amount of time we spend in our bathrooms makes this a practical and necessary move. The most obvious way of going green is to limit the amount of water and energy we consume.  Here are these and other creative aspects to explore and get you started on your green journey.

Chemical free

Here you can make your bathroom that little bit greener by avoiding chemical cleaners. Even your local supermarket will have a range of green inspired products – often with ingredients such as orange, tea tree, lavender and baking soda.

Go Organic

Besides the benefits of consuming organic produce you could also start to buy organic towels, bathrobes and wash cloths. Cotton producers who use no chemical insecticides or pesticides are less likely to impact on their immediate environment negatively – so are great for the planet and your conscious.

Green Plumber

Choosing to use a green plumber will not only get all your leaks fixed but will also be able to advise you on ways to reduce your overall water consumption. This could include a number of measures such as installing a greywater system, water efficient fixtures and intelligent water meters.

Lighting

Lighting is not all about mood in the bathroom, you also need to keep an eye on consumption. Thankfully recent technological advances have brought us compact florescent bulbs (CFL’s) and light-emitting diodes (LED’s) both of which use significantly less electricity.

Low-flo

One of the first steps in any green makeover of your bathroom should be an assessment of plumbing fixtures and how water efficient they are. Besides low flo shower heads and taps you will also need a dual flush toilet. Dual flush toilets use substantially less water, with the option of a full or half flush.

Plants

This is the ultimate, literal way to introduce some green to your bathroom. Plants not only cleanse the air, they also can help to soften this sometimes severe space. Look to source plants from your local nursery that can tolerate low light, including bamboo, ferns and orchids. 

Recycle

This is a fairly broad term and could encompass anything from your toilet paper to recycled fittings and fixtures. Recycled toilet paper reduces your impact on the environment in a very direct manner. Sourcing nearly new items such as baths and basins is also a great way of bagging a bargain.

Solar

If you like a prolonged soak in the shower or bath then you need to look into your water heater. Solar powered versions are a sure way to reduce your outgoings. If you are worried about consistency a gas powered unit provides backup during overcast interludes.