As a professional interior designer in Bergen County, NJ, I am frequently asked about issues that bother some people when it comes to things they purchase for their home.
People today are more aware of where their things are coming from. Some do not wish to utilize items that originated from a living creature, are an animal by-product or that were tested on animals. No harm done.
How can we help to accomplish this?
Hand-made baskets from hemp
#1. WHAT KINDS OF ITEMS WOULD BE USED INSTEAD?
If a product is made from hemp, cotton, bamboo, linen, cork, kapok or buckwheat, it can replace those made from animal based materials like leather, wool, silk or fur.
#2. WHAT CHOICES CAN YOU MAKE?
Decorative pillows.
Covers for pillows can be made from linen, bamboo, or organic cotton. They are free from chemicals and are plant-based. They are also super soft which is a bonus!
assorted pillows
Pillow inserts.
We are used to having foam be our inserts but rather than foam, we can use rubber, kapok, or buckwheat fill. These are organic, free from off-gassing and plant based.
Sofa cushion filling.
Traditionally, we use a combination of foam, wrapped with feathers or down. So, you will need to check to see what the fill is.
Comforters and blankets.
A soft, thick cotton, bamboo or faux fur blanket is much kinder to the world and the planet than wool or down filled blankets/comforters.
Rugs.
Cotton, hemp, jute, and sisal are all excellent materials for floor rugs. All are affordable, organic, and come in an endless array of styles and patterns.
Just check the contents to be sure of what you are getting.
Printed fabrics.
Natural dyes that are vegetable or water based are preferred to printed fabrics.
When you make choices like these, you are following a path to a cleaner environment without too much of a change from what you are used to. The earth will say thank you!
