Decorating with Energy Efficient Holiday Decor
Holiday decor doesn’t have to involve energy-zapping lights and electrical items. A Christmas tree without lights and a few simple decorative accents can go a long way in creating a warm and cozy holiday theme without spending an excessive amount of time and money on decorating. One way to save time, energy, and money on holiday decor is by investing in energy efficient items that won’t blow your budget or significantly increase your utility bill. There are a variety of ways to incorporate energy efficient decor into your home. You can purchase energy efficient holiday decor from a retailer, or you can choose to decorate with unique items that don’t require electricity. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Simple, Rustic Holiday Decor
Many people are embracing a holiday season more focused on the family and less focused on consumerism and excessive spending. As a nod to the Christmas traditions, many are also choosing to utilize simple and rustic holiday decor that is both energy efficient and easy to put up and take down. Simple holiday traditions like creating homemade Christmas tree ornaments from a mixture of flour, salt, and water and fun. Family activities like building a gingerbread house or watching holiday-themed movies together are also great options These choices are far more likely to leave lasting memories than an excessive number of holiday decorations.
Alternative Christmas Trees
One way to create a festive and welcoming holiday environment that doesn’t utilize an excessive amount of energy is to create unique holiday decor that doesn’t require electricity. One way people are choosing to bring the holidays inside the home without the use of extra electricity is by creating alternative Christmas trees. One alternative Christmas tree idea gaining popularity thanks to Pinterest is the Christmas tree created from books. Other household items can also be repurposed into Christmas trees, including ladders, branches, pine cones, and more.
Holiday Tableware
Using festive dishes and flatware is another way to bring the holiday spirit to your home without the use of electricity. Many home decor stores sell holiday-themed flatware and tableware at affordable prices during and shortly after the holidays. Stock up on a few pieces that can be used throughout the holiday season and passed down to children and grandchildren in the future.
Evergreen Decor
Evergreen wreaths and garlands with or without lights can be added to your mantle, windows and doors, tables, along stair railings and banisters, and throughout various other places in your home.
Poinsettias
Poinsettias are another great way to add some holiday spirit throughout your home. Keep in mind, however, poinsettias may cause nausea, vomiting, and other concerns in pets and children if ingested. So keep these holiday plants in areas not accessible by dogs, cats, and babies.
READ MORE: 5 Ways to Save Money on Utility Bills
Where to Shop for Energy-Efficient Holiday Decor
Home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot as well as big-box stores like Target and Walmart offer a large selection of energy-efficient holiday decor items. You can also find a variety of wreaths, garland, ornaments, and festive decor at craft stores like Michael’s and Hobby Lobby. Online retailers like Amazon also offer simple, rustic holiday decor on a budget.
