When you’re not settled in your forever home, it can be challenging to find interior pieces that you love enough to keep for years. Plus, since most apartments are tight on square footage, the furniture and decor you buy now likely won’t work in a home you own later in life.
Sourcing new home decor with each move is wasteful, not to mention costly. To help you pare down on your purchases while limiting your impact on the environment, we’ve rounded up 12 sustainable decor buys that will add character and charm to your apartment, making it feel super cozy even if it is temporary.
Planet-friendly apartment decor
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Whether you've a tiny studio or a roomy space, these pics are so functional and stylish that you’ll want to bring them with you wherever you move to next.
Cozy throws will instantly elevate a couch or loveseat. Quince makes their throw blankets with certified organic cotton, which ensures that every step of the manufacturing process of your throw — not just the fiber itself — is free from chemicals, dyes, and toxins. Curling up on the couch has never felt better.
Apartments can feel so stuffy sometimes. Bring some life into your space with a pop of greenery. These plastic planters are a must-have for all of your gardening needs. With a classic European design, these pots are not only unique, durable, and high-quality, but they’re also made from fully recycled products. The brand is committed to reducing its impact on the planet and the eco-conscious products have helped them become validated and certified as a CO2 Neutral Company.
Hate the look of a traditional wood block knife set on your countertop? We’ve found the perfect solution. This subtle set will look great on your counter and will check all the boxes for your cooking needs — all while keeping the environment in mind. The block and handles are made with wheat fiber and the blades were made with at least 80% recycled steel.
Vases are an easy way to decorate a small space while bringing character into your apartment. These beautiful, one-of-a-kind, handcrafted ceramic vases are made in the Philippines and help sustain skilled artisans and their communities worldwide. Add one to a floating shelf or nightstand for a touch of glam.
If you’re not ready to decorate or furnish your apartment, don’t sweat it, rent it! Spruce up your space with a new couch or an accent chair, risk-free. By renting furniture that you may replace in a few months or years, you can avoid clogging landfills with lightly worn furniture. Bonus: It’s a more affordable furnishing solution while you really nail down your interior design style.
Wash off the day then step onto this earthy bath mat that’s crafted with natural rayon made from bamboo. The eco-friendly material is naturally odor and bacteria-resistant, making it a convincing choice for a bathroom. Non-slip rubber pads keep the mat in place while you dry off, and a gloss lacquer coating prevents water stains on the wood.
Cocktail hour just got cooler. These sleek and sophisticated highball glasses are made with 100% recycled glass. They’re hand-blown, making every glass slightly unique in shape and size. At just under $7 per glass, they’re an affordable staple for every house.
Looking to add a cozy corner where you can unwind with coffee and a book? This is the perfect bookcase or storage shelf and it’s great for small spaces. This piece offers an ideal way to organize books, decor, or framed photos in a non-toxic, sustainable, and strong patented material that is eco-friendly and safe for your home.
The gentle glow and soft flicker of a new candle is a simple ambiance that just can’t be replicated. A staple candle in any room is always a good idea. Planted, formerly known as The Plant Project, created a 100% soy candle that is hand-poured and totally natural. One of the most important elements of these vegan candles is they will not increase the CO2 in your space, which is crucial for apartment life.
Rugs have a way of making a room feel significantly more homey. This pretty striped pick was made with recycled cotton and polyester that’s stain and fade-resistant. It comes in a variety of sizes and colors to best suit your space. Another added perk: It’s machine washable.
Storage has never been so stylish — or sustainable! Place it at the end of your bed or use it as additional seating in your living space. This storage bench is made with sustainable gray woven fabric and can easily stash all your extras.
Add fresh florals or faux branches to this roomy, recycled glass vase. It would make a great go-to for creating centerpieces, and it would add an interesting shape to a shelf or dresser. Each vessel is handmade with durable, long-lasting recycled glass. We love.