Green Your Bedroom for a Better Night's Rest

Sometimes, we just can't avoid breathing in things that could make us sick. We walk outside to meet a toxic swirling combination of car exhaust and other chemically-based fumes that may emit from lighter fluids, factories and even the everyday objects around us. It's true that the clothes we wear, the food we eat, and utensils we use at lunch and dinner may contain some kind of treatment that isn't necessarily good for us, but unless you want to live in a bubble or move off the grid into the woods and forage, how else can you survive naturally?

If one should start anywhere to enjoy a more natural, eco-friendly experience, it's the bedroom. This is your sanctum, a place where you come to wind down and recharge at the end of every busy day. It is important, since your body requires deep sleep to rejuvenate energy, to make sure you have few to no interruptions at night, and certainly nothing in your personal space that could cause you to get sick. When you prepare to green-up your bedroom for a peaceful existence, bear in mind that every element of living space - not just the bed - comes into play.

Draperies

As with most textiles, heavy drapes will come treated with chemicals designed to preserve the durability of the fabric. When these hang over your windows to block incoming lamplight, you may think you are helping set a sleeping mood, but the chemicals that remain stay with you. For a healthier, greener window treatment, look for curtains made of natural, untreated fibers like organic cotton, hemp or bamboo, or consider unpainted wooden blinds or shutters.

Greenery

A good way to keep healthy circulation in your room is to add a plant or two to your sleeping space. Live plants help with filtering your home air naturally, and even absorb some chemicals and reduce risks. Ask your local nursery about good options for keeping in your bedroom.


Bedding

A natural wood frame, a latex mattress topped with organic fiber sheets, and a natural pillow of components designed to help your head support (buckwheat, latex, etc) are essential in the pursuit of a natural night's sleep. Bear in mind if you have considered a fancier sleep system like memory foam, the mattresses may still have chemical treatments. It's best to consult with a green home furnishings company so you know what you're getting is the real deal.

Put everything together your bedroom for a relaxing, renewing experience. When you green your bedroom, a good night's sleep comes naturally.

Kathryn Lively is a freelance writer specializing in articles on finding the right latex mattress for your bed, and articles on green living.