The newest thing to hit the block is green decorating. Using recyclable materials and local supplies is making a strong stand. Going green is a healthier alternative and even safer in most cases. Now let’s take a walk on the green side and see what we can do to help the earth and live a healthier existence.

When you set out to choose home décor choose materials that are recycled or reused.They will last a long time and they will require very little maintenance. One example of this idea would have you needing a new dining room table. Instead of buying an overly expensive table from a furniture store why not go out and get a table base kit and then visit your local wood salvage yard for reclaimed lumber to use for the actual table top. Not only would you be saving a tree but you would also be reusing something that still has a lot of use left in it.

Another decorating material you could use is sheep wool carpet. Wool carpeting is a non-toxic carpet that will make a great alternative to the standard nylon and other synthetic carpets it’s also healthier. Wool carpets are: longer lasting, odor-free, air purifying, fire-resistant, and softer than other types of carpet. You can even ship the carpet back to the manufacturer when you’re done using it and they will recycle it.

When looking into window treatments you can check out organic cotton, bamboo fiber, or even organic silk to add a unique touch to your home. Look into minimalist décor. Minimalist décor includes items such as bamboo picture frames, organic cotton throws and jute rugs. You could even consider buying a bamboo plant. This would add a Zen feel to your home.

One thing man people overlook when decorating green is the use of antiques. We can put antiques in the same category as reclaimed furnishings/ wood. In this way you keep things out of the landfill and eliminate the need for new items to be made. Antiques vary from the most expensive down to very cheap depending on where you look.

Now for something many people are no aware of. Eco-friendly decorating does have its incentives. The incentive is “tax breaks”. When you make eco-friendly improvements you can report them on your yearly taxes. In turn you will get a tax break. But the question is what do you do with all the materials you pulled out of your home? Rather than taking them to a landfill you can contact groups associated with Habitat for Humanity and they will come check out our refuse and may even send some to be recycled and this will give you another tax write off (charitable donation).