Some people are allergic to manmade products and feel better when in a home environment that does not use synthetic materials. Using natural materials in a home is generally a more healthy option. It is also a pleasing alternative for those who prefer to live eco-friendly lives as far as possible.
Bamboo in the Home
Bamboo grows prolifically in many countries and is typically used in screens, blinds and cane furniture. Recently it has also become an option for home flooring and fabrics.
The Uses of Cork
Cork grows in Mediterranean areas and is harvested in nine year cycles. The trees can live for 250 years so this is a sustainable venture. Cork is impermeable to gas and liquids and is also fire and insect resistant. Its light weight and resilience makes it useful for flooring and wall panels.
Cotton and Soft Furnishings
Cotton is a light woven fabric that breathes well. It tends to crease but looks good as drapes, bed covers and cushion covers. Organic cotton, produced without chemical pesticides, is now available.
Jute and Hemp
Hessian is made from a combination of jute and hemp. Jute on its own can be woven and impregnated with linseed oil, pine resin and wood flour to make linoleum. Linoleum floors are hard-wearing, antistatic and completely biodegradable.
Latex in the Home
Latex foam is made from the sap of the rubber tree and used for mattresses, pillows and for padding furniture. It is firm and soft, retains its shape and breathes well.
Leather and Homes
Leather is animal skin that has been cleaned, salted, stretched and oiled. It is hardwearing and long lasting and has many uses in furniture. Chairs covered in leather are comfortable and breathe well compared to those with synthetic upholstery.
Wooden Furniture and Accessories
Wood is a wonderful natural resource that can be recycled. Old wooden items can be sanded and restored and people even make furniture out of used railway sleepers. When buying new items, look for those made from softer fast-growing woods as these resources are more sustainable.
Wool and Home Comforts
Wool is mostly obtained from sheep but also comes from goats, rabbits, llamas and alpacas. It is warm, soft and absorbent and breathes well. It has a degree of fire resistance and is commonly used in clothing, furnishings, carpets, blankets, duvets and mattresses.
Silk is Luxurious
Silk is made from the cocoons of silk worms. It is a sheer, beautiful fabric and looks good as wall hangings, cushion covers and bedding. The cost is prohibitive but even one silk item can add great appeal to a room.
How do Natural Products Work Together in a Home
The choices are endless and will be governed by taste and budget. Wooden beds and futons, natural cotton drapes and cork floors work well together. Cane furniture, leather upholstery, and woollen throws are comfortable. Look for colour schemes or effects that suit personal tastes and work from there.
Choosing natural products helps protect the environment and is also a healthy choice for the users. Eco-friendly furnishings and decor look good and last well. If everyone works towards this type of home, the world will be a better place with less damage to the environment.
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