If your body is your temple, would you let that temple sleep in a pesticide-ridden and toxic bedroom? Our bedrooms serve as a sanctuary from all the stress we’ve put ourselves through physically and emotionally after a long day at work. Making a natural and eco-friendly bedroom doesn’t just benefit the environment — it also benefits your health and happiness! Try some of these techniques for a green bedroom that provides plenty of peace and serenity after a stressful day:

1. Non-Toxic Paint

Often the biggest source of toxins is lurking in your walls! There are dozens of chemicals used in the conventional paints you find at home improvement stores. Not only do these chemicals damage the environment, but prolonged exposure can aggravate allergies, cause respiratory illness, and a bunch of other health problems. Reduce your exposure to carcinogens by doing some research on non-toxic and natural/plant-based paints before painting your bedroom. Bonus points if you pick a soothing color like lavender or taupe!

2. Organic Cotton Bedding (and Pajamas!)

You wouldn’t roll around in a pit of toxins, pesticides, and herbicides. So why are you still using conventional bedding? Making the switch to organic bedding and mattresses is one of the easiest ways to reduce your exposure to toxins and carcinogens. Your skin has practically no defense against absorbing harsh chemicals, so anything in your bedding can easily make its way directly into your blood stream. Use this as a reason to also indulge in fun and relaxing organic pajamas!

3. Consider A House Plant for Your Bedroom

If you live in a congested or traffic-ridden area with little access to fresh air, a house plant might be just what the doctor ordered for your bedroom. House plants significantly help with air quality and oxygen levels in your home. A small plant on your nightstand or dresser can definitely make you feel more at ease and catch some restful shuteye.

4. Avoid Leather and Suede Products

Leather and suede products are two no-nos when living a natural life. Not only are these products cruel to animals, but they undergo major chemical processes to make them suitable for furniture and other home décor accessories. Avoid these products altogether and if you must have a suede throw pillow for your bedroom, research vegan-friendly alternatives. They’ll feel just like the real thing!

5. Purchase Eco-Friendly Light Bulbs

Eco-friendly light bulbs are another easy swap you can make for a natural bedroom. Besides your nightstand lamp, don’t forget about ceiling lights, wall lights, and other light sources in your bedroom that can easily be switched. Don’t forget about natural light either. When the sun’s out, it’s completely free!

6. Opt for Hard Wood Floors and Area Rugs Instead of Traditional Carpeting

Carpets use many petroleum-based processes and chemicals when formulated. Since most people walk on carpet without socks, you’re again exposing yourself to carcinogens that can be directly absorbed into your blood stream via your skin. Traditional carpeting is also very hard to clean. Even if you have the world’s greatest vacuum, trapped dirt, dust particles, and other irritants can get stuck in the fibers and aggravate allergies. Opt for floors that are made out of natural materials like hard wood or bamboo. Purchase organic area rugs that can be vacuumed or shaken outdoors to get rid of dirt and allergens.

Making your bedroom more natural and eco-friendly isn’t as difficult as you’d think. Start slowly, making one change per month and see what kind of changes you notice in your health. You could very well start sleeping better and having more energy in the coming weeks. Have you made the switch to an eco-friendly bedroom yet?

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