Simple Ways to Make Your Home Decor More Sustainable

Sustainable home decor is all about choosing pieces for your home that are kind to the planet — whether that’s by choosing eco-friendly materials, shopping small, or reusing and repurposing things you already have.

Over the past few years, I’ve been making small changes to create a more sustainable home, and it’s something I also focus on with my handmade macramé products. If you’re wondering how to bring a bit of sustainability into your own space, here are some easy ways to start.

What is Sustainable Home Decor?

In a nutshell, sustainable home decor means filling your home with items that are made responsibly — whether that’s from recycled, natural, or low-impact materials, or by supporting small businesses who prioritise sustainability.

It’s also about making thoughtful choices: buying fewer, better-quality items that last longer, or repurposing things you already own instead of replacing them.

How Can We Show Sustainability at Home?

There are loads of ways to show sustainability in your home. A few simple ideas include:

• Buying handmade or second-hand instead of mass-produced.

• Choosing sustainable materials for home decor, like recycled cotton, bamboo, or jute.

• Upcycling furniture or accessories instead of throwing them away.

• Swapping plastic for natural alternatives, like wooden hooks, wicker baskets, or macramé hangers.

Even small swaps make a difference — it’s not about being perfect, but about being more mindful of the things we bring into our homes.

Sustainable Materials for Home Decor

Some of my favourite sustainable materials include:

• Recycled cotton: I use this in nearly all of my macramé designs — it’s soft, strong, and helps reduce waste.

• Jute: A brilliant natural fibre that’s biodegradable and ideal for outdoor pieces.

• Wood: Especially when it’s reclaimed or FSC-certified.

• Bamboo: Fast-growing and renewable, great for furniture and accessories.

These materials not only look beautiful but also have a lower environmental impact compared to synthetic options.

Affordable Sustainable Home Decor

Sustainable doesn’t have to mean expensive. Affordable sustainable home decor is often about getting creative:

• Thrift shops and charity shops can be a goldmine for unique finds.

• Shopping small often means better quality and longevity, which can save money in the long run.

• DIY projects let you create something totally unique without spending much — plus, it’s fun!

Sustainable Home Decor DIY

If you enjoy getting hands-on, sustainable home decor DIY projects are a great way to personalise your space while being eco-conscious. Some ideas include:

• Making your own macramé wall hangings, plant hangers, or storage solutions (I’ve got plenty of tutorials on my YouTube channel if you fancy giving it a go).

• Upcycling old jars, fabrics, or furniture into new decor pieces.

• Using leftover wood to make shelves or hooks.

DIY is one of the most affordable and satisfying ways to add a sustainable touch to your home.

Sustainable Home Decor Ideas

If you’re looking for ideas to make your home a bit greener, here are a few to get you started:

• Switch to natural fibre rugs and textiles.

• Add greenery with houseplants in macramé plant hangers.

• Display sentimental items you already own rather than buying new decor.

• Use repurposed containers for storage or plant pots.

• Opt for locally made artwork or crafts to support your community.

However you decide to introduce sustainability into your home, remember it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Every small change helps — and often, it ends up making your space feel more personal, thoughtful, and unique.

If you’re on the lookout for handmade, sustainable home decor, feel free to take a look at what I have in my shop here. Or if you fancy trying some DIY projects, check out my free macramé tutorials on YouTube here.