Naturally Beautiful: 5 reasons to decorate your home using natural products.

With environmental issues such as Global Warming, pollution and epidemics receiving such deservedly high profile in the British media, we, as a nation, are more focused than ever on finding ethical ways to live, even when it comes to decorating our homes. From exterior building materials to interior paints, fabrics and fixtures, most people are starting to think ‘green’ before selecting products.

There are many reasons why people are starting to change their minds. Some synthetic materials quite literally cost the earth to make, pumping out gallons of chemicals during their making-up process. Some paints are known to release harmful toxins into the atmosphere, whereas synthetic carpets can on occasion aggravate allergies by trapping bacteria and encouraging dust build-up. Choosing natural fabrics for draperies, curtains and window coverings provides an alternative choice that both helps prevent pollution and provides many health advantages.

5 Reasons To Choose Natural Fabrics For Curtains And Draperies

1. For drape and appearance:
   Natural fabrics such as cotton, muslin, linen, wool and silk have been used for generations to create beautiful window coverings because of the soft drape and natural luster of the materials. The depth and character of a natural fabric gives a rich look that is difficult to duplicate. Synthetic fabrics, in contrast, tend to have an unnatural sheen and plastic or too shiny appearance.
2. To reduce allergies:
   Natural fabrics in cotton and cotton blends are easy to wash and comfortable for most people. Synthetics hold onto dust, pollen and other particles that can be detrimental to households where allergies are a problem. Pollutants used during manufacturing of synthetic materials may be inherent in the fabric and cause allergic reactions to sensitive people.
3. Drape:
   Synthetic fabrics such as Rayon are susceptible to heat and humidity conditions and may shrink or expand during different seasons. Hemp, a material sometimes used for shower curtains, disperses moisture and provides resistance to stains and mildew.
4. Softness and texture:
   Cotton fabrics tend to breath and give a light and airy look to a room while linen fabrics are durable and absorbent. A silk window covering drapes beautifully and adds elegance. Synthetics fabrics such as acrylic and nylon do not breathe well and may be susceptible to pilling and runs.
5. Maintenance:
   A natural fabric such as cotton is durable, resistant to stains and easy to maintain. Many synthetic fabrics tend to hold onto stains and may require dry cleaning and the use of harsh solvents for stain removal.
   They’re stronger, safer, more reliable and great for the environment. Go green now, and select natural products when decorating your home.

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