If you are planning on remodeling your bathroom soon, now is the perfect time to consider greener options. These changes are not only great for the environment, but they’re great for reducing your utility bills!
However, determining which green solutions are best for your budget, time, and preferences can be a little daunting. Here are four ideas to consider for your bathroom renovation. Read on to discover how you can easily and affordably integrate green ideas into your new bathroom.

Consider Non-Porous Wall Surrounds

The biggest benefit of non-porous surrounds is that they are low maintenance. Because the wall surround is sealed and impermeable, cleaning the bathroom is so much easier since the walls will be resistant to mildew and there won’t be grout lines to scrub down. You’ll also feel much better knowing that you can keep your bathroom clean and free of allergens without putting in extensive effort.

So why is this option an eco-friendly one? Because you don’t have to do heavy cleaning as often, usually at-home products like mild dish soap or vinegar will suffice for non-porous walls. This minimal maintenance will help you avoid needing abrasive cleaners used for difficult-to-clean surfaces. In fact, one study found that many cleaning agents on the market that claim to be eco-friendly actually have dangerous chemical compounds. If you still want to use some of these less-friendly cleaners, at least your usage will be reduced.

Lastly, since chemical cleaners can pollute your indoor air, it may be beneficial for you to reduce toxins in your home so that your household enjoys cleaner air. As a result, you and your family members are less likely to get sick or have allergic reactions in your home.

Convert an Old Bath to a Shower to Save Water

It probably comes as no surprise to hear that Americans waste a lot of water each year. Even a small plumbing leak can cause your home to waste thousands of gallons of water each year! However, if you alternate between baths and showers and don’t have a preference, you may want to take out any outdated tubs and install a shower head instead.
Of course, both ways of bathing aren’t particularly eco-friendly, but you can choose the lesser of two evils. According to The Sacramento Bee, people who take showers use a lot less water than people who take baths do. And if you install a low-flow head and take showers that are less than 10 minutes long, you only reduce your water waste and usage even more.
Additionally, this renovation will provide you with additional space in your bathroom. You can fill up that space with art, decorative rugs, cupboards, or other items that appeal to your tastes.

Install a Dual-Flush Toilet

This is one of the most well-known ways for greening a bathroom—and for good reason. It can reduce water consumption by more than 60%! Some countries even have laws that require the installation of these toilets because they are so beneficial.

Although the name “dual-flush” sounds wasteful, it refers to its options: a low-pressure flush or a high-pressure flush. Most people use the low-pressure flush unless they need a high-pressure one for bowel movements.

While some renovators may offer this product, others may not since it is not as widely used in the U.S. yet. However, there’s no reason you can’t purchase a model and then have your contractors install it for you since some special plumbing is involved that may make it too hard for DIY methods.