Those committed to living an eco-friendly lifestyle in their downtown Silver Spring apartment are all trying to do the right thing. From recycling bottles, paper and cans to bringing reusable shopping bags to the grocery store, or even buying fuel-efficient cars, “greenies” have adopted routines designed to make a difference in their environment.

But one thing may have been overlooked – household furniture. In fact, it’s probably the biggest green “offense” committed. Part of the reason it’s overlooked is that most people don’t even think of furniture as contributing to a sustainable or “green” lifestyle. Or perhaps it’s because no one even knows what sustainable furniture is.

So, what should you look for when buying sustainable furniture for your green apartment home in Silver Spring, MD?

1. Furniture from sustainable materials – the most obvious choice is found in the best of modern wood furniture-making practices. From mahogany grown and harvested from sustainable wood plantations in Africa and Honduras to the king of all sustainable wood – bamboo, there are a multitude of wood alternatives that are now farmed sustainably and readily available to environmentally conscientious furniture makers and buyers.
2. Recycled/reclaimed furniture – this is not what you might find abandoned on the side of the road. We’re talking about furniture made from old wood beams, wood from deconstructed buildings, or even old orchards. Having already served a useful life, this wood gets the opportunity to be productive yet again.
3. Vintage/consignment antiques – resale stores are an excellent source for sustainable furniture. Generally speaking, these antiques tend to be well crafted, hardwood furniture that have withstood the test of time. Craftsmen utilized real maple, walnut and cherry wood to create beautiful, sustainable furniture that can be passed down from generation to generation as opposed to ending up in a landfill. If it was good enough for Grandma, it should be good enough for you!

Other suggestions include light fixtures made from copper which is long-lasting, incredibly durable and 100% recyclable or those made from recycle glass and aluminum which produce some of the most beautiful, sophisticated designs.

Just a few tips to keep in mind when you’re looking to decorate your new home at The Blairs Apartments, with LEED Certified apartments.

We at The Blairs know this is important to you – So, how do you treat your pet with the same respect? Go Green!

1. Cleaning up after your pet can be a hassle, but skip the over-produced cleaners and try something home made. DIY cleaners like a classic hot water, vinegar and baking soda combination is entirely pet-friendly. If you don’t have the time to produce something homemade, at least pick up cleaning products that are natural and non-toxic to protect your pets.
2. You are what you eat and the same goes for your pets! Choose natural, organic pet food that is free of chemicals and preservatives that can be harmful to your pet. Certified organic pet foods meet strict USDA Standard and contain no pesticides, hormones or artificial/genetically engineered ingredients.
3. Picking “it” up is never a pleasant experience, but you can make sure you’re doing your duties with biodegradable doggy bags or biodegradable cat litter. Did you know that traditional clay based cat litter isn’t biodegradable, and the chemicals used in them are the same as for grouting and sealants?
4. Having fun with your pet can be eco-friendly, too. Choose toys, beds and collars made with sustainable fibers such as hemp  for long lasting fun that is safe for your pet. Look for seals and certifications on toys next time you’re shopping. Another option is to reuse old toys from friends and family or fashion clothes and rags into new recycled toys for your pets.
5. Choose eco-friendly and pet-safe products and services throughout the area. Try Living Ruff in Silver Spring for raw food options and toys or Washington DC’s Planet Pet that offers environmentally friendly day care and grooming.

The Blairs offers your pet the same healthy, sustainable lifestyle we offer our residents. The non-toxic landscaping and cleaning options we use mean even your next walk around the block is an environmentally friendly experience.

Not a resident? Learn about our Ecopads , The Blairs’ brand new eco-friendly apartments featuring GE Clean Steel appliances, recycled counter tops, along with oversized closets and the other amenities you expect from a luxury complex.