As you may already know, Earth Day (April 22nd) brings awareness on our impact on the environment, and how we can make it better. We can do this in various ways, such as recycling, using less water, reusing items to save money, time, and energy; reducing waste, and giving away items that we no longer want or need on Freecycle or Craigslist.

Even though Earth Day is the latter part of this month, it’s never too early or late to start making environmentally friendly changes in your home. Here are ways my family and I help make a difference in our household while making a positive impact on our environment.

Unlike the steel scouring pads, eco-friendly scouring pads are safe for your hands, will not splinter or disintegrate, and biodegradable when composted.

I often use old t-shirts or cloths instead of a paper towel for cleaning. Not only using an old t-shirt or rag is budget-friendly, but they’re apt to get the job well done, whereas paper towels will only do so much. Also, you can’t rinse paper towels out and reuse them.

Did you know 17 billion toilet paper tubes are used each year? That’s enough to fill the Empire State Building – twice! On April 22nd (Earth Day), Scott® Brand is encouraging people to make a positive impact by choosing Scott® Tube-Free to help reduce unnecessary waste. By simply switching to Scott® Tube-Free toilet paper, you can make a difference now and for future generations. You don’t have to skimp on quality, especially since their toilet paper is strong and durable yet soft and gentle with no tube to toss.

Don’t just take my word for it, though. Try it out for yourself by heading to Amazon and saving $2 off! You can choose the Amazon Subscribe & Save to receive Free Shipping, convenient regular delivery on the schedule you set, and cancel at any time without a hassle. In addition, you can receive an additional 15% off if you subscribe to 5 or more products.

Castile soap, such as Dr. Bronners, can be used for many different purposes. It can be used as a body wash, shampoo alternative, shaving, brushing your teeth, laundering, controlling dust mites, killing ants and aphids, aromatherapy, rinsing fruit, facial cleanser, baby wash, all-purpose household cleaner, homemade solution for baby wipes, and hand soap. It does everything but takes out the trash!

Plants are nature’s natural air purifier. They are inexpensive and work much better than air purifying machines. Air purifying machines are not only costly, but they also use up energy, and I’m speaking from experience.

Smart thermostats offer climate control, the convenience of customizing your home’s temperature for when you’re away from home, and reduces energy use.