Many more homeowners are looking towards going green, especially in the kitchen. They are looking for ways to save on energy, water, and electricity in order to have a kitchen that is safe from harm.
There is no question that most kitchens are full of pollutants. Any food that is cooked, stored or prepared in an area that is polluted will absorb toxins. Since kitchens are one of the most used rooms in the home, it is a prime place where water and electricity is wasted.
As more and more people are becoming green conscious, they are asking for more and more products that are good for the environment when they building a new home. Products that promote health, reduce energy bill and give peace of mind are prime concerns. The ultimate goal of a green kitchen is to make the best use of space while reducing waste at the same time.
Some green ideas to consider when planning a new kitchen are;
•Avoid the use of particleboard cabinets. The contain urea formaldehyde. Wood cabinets made with non toxic glues should be considered. Avoid teak and mahogany which are trees that are on the endangered list.
•Consider cabinets purchased from a second hand shop, and refinish them with non toxic paints or restore them to the natural beauty of the wood.
•Choose your flooring carefully. Many traditional flooring’s such as vinyl, contain toxic chemicals that leach out into the air. There are many non toxic options such as bamboo, tile and stone to consider.
•Counter tops have many of the same toxic properties as flooring. Natural stone, granite, recycled glass, and marble should be considered.
•Choose appliances that are Energy Star rated. These are certified to save on energy over the life of the product. Don’t get caught up in the hype of having a high capacity washer and dryer if you don’t need one. That only wastes electricity and water.
•Paints that are low or no VOC should be used. These are getting easier and easier to find but do cost a bit more. The health benefits of not breathing the toxic chemical that traditional paints give off are worth the added cost.
•Proper site location for the home should have allowed for maximum natural lighting in the kitchen to reduce the need for extra lighting. And while you are at it, be sure to use all lighting that contains compact fluorescent bulbs or led lighting. Dimmers should be installed on as many switches as possible.
•Windows should be energy efficient as that alone could save you a tremendous amount of money on your energy bill. Consider a window that will allow you to grow your own fruits and vegetables. That would certainly be considered going “local”!
•The use of houseplant should be a part of the plan. Houseplants are very good at removing pollution from the air.
•Avoid the use of non stick or aluminum cookware. Use glass, stainless steel, copper or Pyrex. Many health risks have been associated with non stick cookware.
•Use as many non toxic cleaning products as possible. Make your own cleaning products.
•Limit the amount of paper plates, paper napkins, plastic ware and paper towels. If you do use these products, be sure they are eco friendly and biodegradable.
•Service your appliances on a regular basis to keep them working in top conditions.
•Recycle as much as you can. Ziplock ® bags can be reused several times and avoid buying the plastic storage containers. Use glass and avoid the petrochemicals found in plastic ware.
•Get started with a composting program. You will be amazed at how easy it is and how much your garden will benefit.
•Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!
By making use of the many design elements and products that are available today, you can have a home that is efficient, economical, healthy, and earth friendly.
Author Resource:
Beverly Saltonstall is an internet writer who cares deeply about the environment. Helping people go green one step at a time is a goal of her articles. For a free report on easy steps you can take to go green, visit http://pollutionwebsite.com/freereport
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