Going Green in Your NYC Apartment

Going green is a great way to save money and do your part for the environment at the same time. Whether you are moving to a new apartment or simply want to revamp your current one, here are the best ways to make your NYC apartment more environmentally friendly.

Water Conservation

Reduce the amount of water you use in your apartment with a few easy steps. Low-flow water aerators affix to your kitchen and bathroom faucets in minutes, and they reduce the amount of water you use without noticeable changes. You can also invest in water-saving showerheads to increase efficiency when showering. Consider setting a timer when you shower to limit your water usage even more.

Energy-Efficient Lighting

Upgrade your existing light bulbs to CFL bulbs, which use about one tenth of the energy while still delivering soft illumination to your home. Install timers for your lights to turn them off automatically in the mornings so you don’t forget and leave them on, and turn lights off whenever you leave the room.

Insulation

Insulated curtains help to keep your apartment cool in the summer and warm in the winter, so you can conserve energy and save money on your utilities. These curtains also help to dampen noise and block light, which means you get a better night’s sleep too. Available in a range of designs and colors, these window coverings look good while helping you to go green.

Cleaning

Earth-friendly cleaning products are essential for going green in your home. Look for chemical-free cleaners at your local supermarket, and consider making your own from simple ingredients you already have in your kitchen. Baking soda and water mixed together to form a paste creates a great cleaner for bathtubs and sinks, and rubbing alcohol makes an effective glass cleaner. Use cleaning cloths instead of paper towels to reduce the amount of trash you produce each day.

Literally going green

Houseplants can raise the quality of your indoor air, and they make your apartment feel more like home. Place small plants in the window sills in every room, and consider growing herbs in the kitchen windows for plants you can actually use every day. Place two plants for every 100 square feet of apartment space to achieve optimum air quality results.