Many thanks to our guest blogger, Caroline Smith, who created this custom post for us. Caroline is a keen “freecycler” and runs a website that offers a range of slipcovers for most types of furniture. (We love Freecycle and support reducing, reusing and recycling everything.)
Are you ready for a different style of decor, but your furniture’s still in good condition? Do you want to redecorate for the holidays but can’t fit new furnishings into your budget ? Does it bother you to have to throw out perfectly usable furnishings in the name of style? Are you concerned about waste and the overflowing landfills in this country? If so, you might want to consider utilizing slipcovers, Freecycle, and some of these green tips for recycling furniture.
Slipcovers to the Rescue
Years ago slipcovers were more like throws which Grandma used to hide the stains and rips on her furniture. These ill-fitting blankets slid off as quickly as one replaced them and came in hideous floral designs. Modern slipcovers have nothing in common with these old antique blankets. Today’s are designed for the style conscious consumer and are made to fit well. They’re eco conscious, affordable and can help:
- Cover rips, stains, and scratches
- Update a room with fresh designs
- Change color schemes
- Create a holiday atmosphere
Slipcovers can even be made to fit sagging furniture if you pad the loose areas with old towels or blankets. Tip – to hold the slipcovers firmly in place, push rolled up newspapers or magazines between the cushions and along the back crease to keep the fabric tight.
At the moment, slipcovers made from organic fabrics are difficult to find. Sure Fit Slipcovers used to sell a range made from organic cotton, but they’re not currently available. However, those who are environmentally conscious hope that other companies will pick up on this idea. Regardless, using a slipcover to recycle an old chair or sofa is still a greener option than sending the piece to rot in a landfill.
Environmental Impact
One network that supports eco-conscious living is Freecycle. Freecycle is free to all who are willing to follow the rules of the group and wish to help reduce wasteful practices by sharing items they no longer need with others.
Refurbish and Modernize
While Freecycled furnishings may not be in perfect condition, they can almost always be refurbished and modernized with just a little effort. Here’s how to simply make older furnishings more attractive:
- Paint the wooden portions with an eco-friendly paint and replace the handles and pulls
- Distress the wood even further
- Cover scratched areas with table runners or place-mats
- Group candles, picture frames, books or floral arrangements over damaged areas
- Slipcover outdated couches and chairs:)
If everyone takes a few small steps toward greener living by reusing existing items, we can all help conserve the environment. Let’s give the furniture already circulating, a green makeover.
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Not only can you find a freecycle in your neighborhood, but you can also give your excesses to charity. This is another way we recycle our odds and ends around the house. We like to give items to the local CCA (Christian Community Action) store in our neighborhood. Then you can shop there and pick up interesting items at a discount. It’s a double win.
Far too much is being thrown away these days and freecycle is a great way to reduce the amount of waste we produce. Previous generations would have never thrown so many things away and it’s time we return to a more sustainable way to using furniture. Many good quality pieces can be repaired or refurbished and not only does it save money but it helps the environment too. I hope more people will join freecycle in the future.