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One of the major trends for 2013 is the inclusion of eco-friendly features in bathroom remodeling and new bathrooms. . However, many people are looking for ways to have a completely green bathroom, not just a few items here and there. Here are the best ways to build an environmentally friendly bathroom.
1. The first is, of course, to be aware of the flow of water. There are three water-consuming areas in the bathroom: toilet, shower and sink. Toilet water flow can be controlled with European low flush toilets. There are two water flow options, one for low flow and one for full flow. Most shower nozzles have a ring that restricts the flow of water. Another way to make your bathroom environmentally friendly is to drain the water from your shower into a reservoir that can be reused for watering lawns and flower beds. The same can be done with the kitchen sink water. If you decide to go this route, be sure to use biodegradable soaps and shampoos. When it comes to the sinks, low-flow water fixtures are also available.
2. Use low or VOC free paints. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. This is especially important if the bathrooms are used by children.
3. Incorporating natural elements not only makes the bathroom relaxing; some elements may also be environmentally friendly. The first is the use of natural solar energy. If you have a south-facing bathroom, larger windows will help warm up the room naturally, reducing your energy bills. Window treatments such as double-chamber blinds can trap warm air at night or block sunlight during the summer months, keeping the room cool. Plants are also a great addition to your bathroom, but make sure they are tropical plants that thrive when exposed to moisture. Plants help clean the air of pollutants and give us oxygen.
4. Use recycled wood or reclaimed barn wood for the cabinets. The wood holds well and can give your bathroom a wonderful rustic look.
5. Using converted tiles is a great way to create art in your bathroom. By searching for tiles that have been thrown away, a homeowner can create an incredibly unique atmosphere by mixing and matching colors and textures for a fraction of the cost of new tiles.
There are many ways to make a new bathroom environmentally friendly. Updating your bathroom can be done with a few tweaks here and there. Remember to reuse, reduce and recycle use for bathrooms as well as any other room in your home.
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Source by Dagny McKinley