Less Waste, More Value: 7 Sustainable Decorating Tips Before You Sell

by Sales Long Sutton
in Uncategorised
on 27 January 2026

If, like us, one of your New Year’s resolutions is to be more eco-friendly and embrace sustainable living, updating your home décor may feel like a daunting task. The good news is that small, thoughtful changes can make a big difference, helping your home feel fresher, more inviting, and stylish. Whether you’re sprucing up for yourself, have just moved in, or are preparing your property for sale, here are 7 of our top tips for decorating sustainably:

1. Reuse what you already own
Before buying anything new, look at what you already have. Many items can be refreshed with a clean, simple repositioning, or by removing excess accessories. This reduces waste while helping rooms feel tidy and well presented.

2. Shop charity shops for tasteful décor
Charity shops are an excellent source of affordable home accessories such as mirrors, lamps, cushions, vases, and artwork. Choose neutral, timeless pieces that enhance the space without distracting from the property itself.

3. Avoid over-personalisation
When preparing your home for sale, aim for a calm and neutral look. Second-hand décor can often have a softer, understated style that allows buyers to imagine their own furniture and lifestyle in the space.

4. Refresh with eco-friendly paint
A light, neutral coat of low-VOC or eco-friendly paint can instantly brighten a room and improve air quality. This is one of the most effective and sustainable ways to refresh tired interiors before viewings.

5. Add greenery the sustainable way
Houseplants are an easy, low-cost way to add life to a room. Choose low-maintenance plants or reuse existing pots to create a fresh, welcoming feel without unnecessary expense.

6. Style for photography as well as viewings
Sustainable styling often photographs beautifully. Natural textures, soft furnishings, and clutter-free surfaces help create bright, appealing images that attract more online interest.

7. Re-donate after the sale
Once your move is complete, any décor items you no longer need can be re-donated. This keeps the process circular, reduces landfill, and supports local charities, a positive final step in your selling journey.

Sustainable decorating is a smart, cost-effective way to enhance presentation, reduce waste, and appeal to modern buyers. Helping your home stand out for all the right reasons!