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Simple ways to make your home more eco-friendly.

In the last five years Americans have jumpstarted their lives into a more “green” light, finally realizing the effects of global warming and pollution. Austin, of course, likes to stay atop the green movement, taking an active role in developing green energy sources such as wind power, biodiesel, and promoting hybrid vehicles for city fleets. Austin has even set the goal to become the most energy-efficient city in the nation by 2015, a milestone for which we're already well under way. (Don't take our word for it: MSN.com cites Austin among its list of the ten greenest cities in America.)

While city initiatives are wonderful, the effort starts at home. Literally. One of the first places individuals can make a big environmental impact is in their house. While we all take charge in our own ways to become more eco-friendly, below are a few tips even Joe Shmoe can follow to convert his home into one that Mother Earth would be proud of.

1. Install a clothesline. Give your dryer a rest this summer; try one of two ways to hang a clothesline, the traditional long line or the more compact umbrella style. Anyone will be amazed at how well this ancient technique works just as well. Clothes will dry fresher, faster…and free. Dryers suck up the most energy out of any other appliance in your house. One could even embrace an extra tip by drying pillow cases over lavender to help the troubled sleepers, or hang sheets over flowers for a naturally fresh smell.  Don’t like the crisp texture of line drying? Soften towels, socks or jeans with a five-minute tumble.

2. Use ceiling fans. These grandfather wind blowers are far more energy efficient, economical, and quieter than air conditioning units — ceiling fans can cool almost any home. It is perfect to put one above each bed for a relaxing sleep. Putting a fan in your stairwell will also create better cooling overall throughout your home. During the cold season change the direction of the blades to help keep the expensive warm air down in the main rooms. 

3. Protect your deciduous trees. Trees are like natural air conditioners, water pumps and not to mention free oxygen tanks. These tall, shady creatures cool the Earth by giving shade and recycling water. Nothing can cool your home more inexpensively and brilliantly than shady trees. A house in the shade can be up to ten degrees cooler than its sun-soaked neighbor! If you aren’t already enjoying the leafy benefits of mature trees, plant now for the future.

4. Choose natural materials. Mother Nature’s designs are hard to beat. Wood floors will keep you warmer in winter, and cooler in the summer. Pure cotton sheets, wool, cotton or natural sisal carpets will create the same double action per season. Plus, if you stick to nature’s products when building or renovating, you will eliminate all of the unhealthy gasses that plagues new homes.

5. Use eco-friendly cleaning products. Vinegar and baking soda are your best cleaning friends. Vinegar clean windows, clears away mineral deposits and lifts stubborn dirt. Baking soda is an excellent alternative for powdered cleansers. Additional products for your eco-friendly buckets are:  washing soda, citrus oils, soap, detergent, and eco-friendly bleach.

6. Use your windows wisely. How long you can go without air conditioning? Test yourself, open your windows at night, flip the switch on the fan and enjoy your breezy night. During the hot summer days, close the windows and blinds. Remember to think about cross-ventilation; open opposing windows or doors to help the fresh breezes flow efficiently through.

7. Understand your appliances. Microwaves are far more energy efficient than your stovetop or oven. When you use your stovetop, match the pot size to element; take advantage of remaining heat by turning it off before you’re done cooking. Only run your dishwasher when it’s completely full and use the energy saver option — it does make a difference. Let dishes air-dry after the cycles have run their course. When it comes to doing laundry, make sure you fill your washing machine to capacity, use coldwater rinse always. Do not over-dry clothes in your dryer. (Better yet, see tip #1.)

8. Look at your light bulbs. There are now energy-efficient light bulbs now available on the market, which use dramatically less energy. Nearly every store carries these bulbs and the light they put off is no different than a regular bulb.

9. Use fewer paper products. Save paper towels for when you really need them, otherwise use and launder household cloths. When purchasing recycled kitchen and bathroom paper, look for post-consumer content labeling.

10. Put your house to bed every night. Turn off lights and lamps (use nightlights in hallways), turn off all machinery (televisions, radios, computers, stereos) too, and sleep well — secure in the knowledge that you are taking good care of your home and planet.