How to Make Your Move More Eco-friendly

In the last few decades, we’ve all been more conscious of the impact we are having on the environment. Like us, you are convinced that when it comes to reducing our environmental impact, there are no small steps. You’re right, everyone’s efforts will make a difference for a more environmentally-safe world. Although, when it comes to moving to your new home you have some doubts. Well, make no mistake. We have great tips that you can use to make your move more eco-friendly.

#1 – Natural & Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

If you are either renting or buying a new home, moving is synonymous with cleaning. Certainly, you will have to clean up the house/apartment for the next occupants. It is also a great chance to clean items such as your refrigerator, freezer and other furnishings before or after taking delivery. Still, too many of us choose to use chemical products when it comes to cleaning their items when moving. We know they are not eco-friendly, even the opposite…..

They can be dangerous to your health and undeniably they are toxic for the environment. So if you want to go green consider moving as a great chance to switch over to eco-friendly cleaning products. You can find them at your nearest grocery. That being said, nothing is better than non-toxic and natural cleanings products. You can even prepare your own with white vinegar, lemon and baking soda. They are fantastic and 100% biodegradable.

#2 – Organise a Garage Sale

Are the kids old toys or that cabinet you’ve had for the last 20 years is no longer sparking joy? Do you simply want to refresh your interior? Don’t worry, we understand. 

Moving is actually one of the best moments to sort through your garage and other storage areas of clutter. Instead of simply adding to the landfill you might find that most of your items can have a second life. So why not hold a garage sale with all the belongings you do not want to move? In addition to a physical garage sale, you could always explore selling your items online for free on marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree.

The other benefit to holding a garage sale is you can sell the furniture you do not want to take with you meaning you are earning some extra cash prior to the move whilst also reducing the amount to be moved and in theory achieving a cheaper move at the same time. 

With a garage sale, you can easily do something good for the environment while potentially saving on your move and making some money. It sounds like a win-win!

#3 – Donate to Charity

There are plenty of reasons that we have unused items and belongings. Why not prepare boxes and give them to charities for a second (new) life?

Charities are always looking for donations of any types. Also, the items you do not use anymore can make someone else happy. We suggest packing them by type like boxes of clothes, ornaments, furniture and so on. Do you have a cause close to your heart but do not know where to look for your donation? The website mycause.com.au can guide you. They have listed more than 4,000 Australian charities. You can search by keywords, type and even around you by states/territories.

Do a good deed while moving. Think about donating to charities.

#4 – Dispose Properly and Recycle

After having organised a garage sale and donated to charities, you may still have boxes of unwanted or broken goods. You most likely won’t want to bring those boxes with you and that’s perfectly fine. 

What you may not know however is that you may be harbouring hazardous materials that cannot be put into your general waste bin. Items such as batteries and paints can contain toxic substances and liquids. It is best to check with your local council as often they can provide you with the best and often free solution to dispose of these goods. For further information visit the environment.gov.au website for more information on hazardous waste and how to manage them.

All these steps will definitely make your move more eco-friendly on your moving day.

#5 – Hire an Eco-Friendly Moving Company

Another great way of moving while considering the environment is to hire an eco friendly moving company.

Companies such as Palmers Relocations, for example, have embraced an eco-friendly solution to moving clients both locally and around the world.

In Australia, they are the only removal/furniture moving company who provides 100% recyclable packing materials and furniture covers. Apart from being good for the environment, this material provides a much higher grade of protection than traditional bubble wrap.

#6 – Stay Eco-Friendly in Your New Home

You have moved and you are settled in your new home. It’s not time to give up on the good work you have achieved by following the steps above. Being eco-friendly and environmentally aware is a way of life.

Here are a few things that you can do in order to keep your eco-friendly approach in your new home:

• Find and switch to a green energy provider. 
• Upgrade your lights to LED lamps. They consume less electricity and last longer.
• Use solar energy with solar panels if possible. It works great for garden lights.
• Minimise the use of water and use rainwater tanks when you can

Endnote

All these green moving tips will help you make a more environmentally friendly move. Of course, there are plenty of other ways to protect the environment for future generations and they are not limited to the above. Our tips are winners in all aspects: fewer packing materials and boxes, cheaper move, helping people and taking care of the environment for future generations.