These eco-friendly home decor hacks make it easy to update your home using sustainable materials, budget-friendly swaps, and creative DIY ideas that are better for the planet.
From repurposing what you already own to choosing low-impact decor updates, these small changes can help you create a home that feels stylish, intentional, and environmentally conscious.
No major renovation required!
Keep scrolling for 15 simple ways to refresh your space without creating extra waste!
1. Swap in Plants
Use houseplants or propagated cuttings to replace disposable decor and add life to shelves, tables, and windowsills.
If you’re not sure where to start, these Aesthetic Indoor Plants for Small Spaces create a calming, cozy vibe without producing visual clutter.
Some of our favorites include succulents, cacti, snake plants, and spider plants.
You can also create a Mini Indoor Herb Garden that doubles as decor. Your herb sanctuary doesn’t have to take up a lot of space.
Just a windowsill, shelf, or desk will do!
2. Reuse Those Glass Jars!
You can also upcycle glass jars for your herb garden or turn them into vases, storage containers, and candle holders.
Consider updating them with twine, paint, or fabric for an eco-friendly statement piece.
Here are some examples that are simple, minimalist, and planet-friendly!
3. Switch to Cloth
Paper towels are definitely convenient, but they’re not the most eco-friendly option. And, they add no visual appeal to your space.
Instead of paper towels, opt for reusable napkins or cloth versions that double as decor when folded or displayed.
These options can be stylish and add warmth while also serving a purpose!
4. Repurpose Your Own Decor Items
Rotate decor you already own between rooms to refresh your space without buying anything new.
Here’s an example of a simple hoop wreath as window decor and displayed over a bed.
5. Refresh Shelves with Simple Changes
Bookshelves aren’t just for housing your favorite novels!
On their own, they provide dimension and texture to rooms. Plus, they create opportunities to showcase home decor.
Consider restyling your bookshelves by stacking books horizontally, grouping by color, or adding natural accents like stones or wood beads for a quick home refresh!
6. Update Pillows with Thrifted Finds
Throw pillows offer valuable real estate for showcasing fun prints and patterns.
Instead of buying new, create new statement pillows with slip covers made from linen, cotton, or thrifted fabric. And, consider using vintage and sustainable pillowcases for your bed.
7. Craft One-of-a-Kind Wall Decor
Need some new wall decor?
Create DIY wall art using pressed leaves, dried flowers, fabric scraps, yarn, or pages from old books.
8. Replace Synthetic Scents
Switch out plug-in air fresheners and aerosols for simmer pots made with citrus peels, herbs, and spices. Or, consider using essential oils and herbal sachets.
These options are better for the environment and much prettier, too!
9. Opt for Natural Basket Decor
Instead of plastic bins, use baskets made from jute, seagrass, or rattan for stylish storage that doubles as eco-friendly decor.
10. Upgrade Old Picture Frames
Repurpose old frames by repainting them or filling them with fabric, wallpaper samples, or printable art.
Here are some fun and funky ideas for a cozy modern home!
11. Get Cozy with Thrifted Blankets or Homemade Quilts
Add texture with thrifted throws or blankets instead of buying new seasonal decor. You can also learn how to quilt or purchase handmade quilts from a sustainable small business.
12. Create Your Own Seasonal Signs
Replace disposable seasonal signs with reusable chalkboards or letter boards.
13. Embrace Natural Materials
Style surfaces using natural materials like wood trays, stone coasters, or ceramic bowls you already own.
These options add dimension, texture, and depth to coffee tables, dining tables, nightstands, and counters in a way that’s good for the planet and your wallet.
14. Try Your Hand at Furniture Makeovers
Refinish or repaint small furniture pieces instead of replacing them. Nightstands, stools, or side tables make great weekend projects.
Here are some simple, beginner-friendly tutorials to help get your creative juices flowing:
- Refinished Curio and China Cabinets
- Farmhouse China Cabinet Makeover
- Antique Buffet Makeover
- Estate Sale Nightstand Makeover
15. Simplify
Consider simplifying your home to let your favorite decor pieces stand out.
Declutter intentionally and let negative space become part of your decor for a calmer, more sustainable look.
Here are some clean and modern spaces to help you see the vision!
More Like This
If you liked these eco-friendly home decor hacks, be sure to check out these other sustainable and do-it-yourself home upgrades.
- DIY Renter-Friendly Upgrades That Are Totally Landlord Approved
- Incredible Ikea Hacks
- DIY Modern Accent Walls
- DIY Shiplap Walls