Eco-friendly decor tips: Clean candles, natural rugs and low-waste decor ideas that work

Interior design tips: Indoor plants are no longer accents, they’re essentials. A well-placed Monstera or Calathea doesn’t just style a corner, it filters air and lifts mood, say decor experts (Image: Canva)

When you think about environmental impact, rugs, curtains, or candles may not come to mind, but they should. Sustainable living starts at home, with everyday choices like eco-friendly textiles, natural fibres, non-toxic dyes, and clean-burning candles. What you walk on, draw shut, or light up can quietly shape your home’s carbon footprint.

Home decor doesn’t have to scream eco-friendly to be conscious, says Shrutee Jain, Co-founder,  Studio Abrash, Gurgaon. “The world is slowly becoming aware of its actions and now leaning towards mindful consumption. Even tiny, thoughtful changes can make the loudest statements. All you need is a gentle pivot towards natural textures and cleaner aesthetics,” she says.

Jain shares tips on how to use living, breathing décor for a more mindful home:

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• Say no to synthetics: Swapping out synthetic materials is the first, most subtle way to bring the outdoors in. “People often choose convenience over consciousness. But PVCs or acrylics do not add soul to a space, instead they pollute long after they’re gone,” says Jain. She suggests using materials that wear beautifully. “Items like bamboo lampshades, cork coasters, or linen throws, are better for the environment, plus, they also bring warmth, texture, and a sense of calm rooted in nature,” she says.

• Style with plants: Indoor plants are no longer accents, they’re essentials. “A well-placed Monstera or Calathea doesn’t just style a corner, it filters air and lifts mood,” says Jain. She suggests pairing plants with character-rich planters: vintage brass bowls, reclaimed ceramic urns, or even quirky upcycled vessels. A fiddle-leaf fig by the window or a tray of succulents in a sunlit nook can transform your energy and your interiors.

• Rugs that reduce waste: Rugs are an underrated way to do good.  “There are handwoven rugs made from recycled PET yarn and upcycled sarees. These are rich in story, low in footprint,” she adds. Unlike synthetic floor coverings, these offer luxury while saving tons of textile waste from landfills. “It’s where comfort meets conscience," she adds.

• Clean candles, grounded scents: Mainstream candles often contain paraffin wax, a petroleum by-product. “Opt for soy, beeswax, or coconut wax candles in reusable jars. Also, you can choose grounded, nature-inspired scents like cedarwood, vetiver, or eucalyptus. These smell clean,” says Jain.