Tenants
Nearly 36% of U.S. households rent - but most rental units aren't built with sustainability in mind.
That doesn’t mean you’re stuck with wasteful energy bills, poor insulation, or fast-furniture decor. In fact, renters have more power than they think when it comes to reducing their carbon footprint - without risking their security deposit or blowing their budget.
This guide is packed with low-commitment, high-impact eco-friendly hacks that actually work in a rental. From smart energy swaps to creative reuse ideas, here’s how to live greener no matter your lease.
You don’t need a full-blown renovation to make this work. Just a little bit of this and a bit of that and a few cheap tools and you’ll be saving energy and your carbon footprint in no time.
Swapping just five of your most-used lightbulbs with ENERGY STAR–rated LEDs can save you up to $75 per year. Pair those with smart plugs that cut power to idle devices - like coffee makers, game consoles, or TV boxes - and you could save even more. It’s an easy upgrade that saves money without needing your landlord’s permission.
Think your devices aren’t using energy when they’re off? Think again. Standby power - often called “phantom energy” - can account for up to 10% of a household’s electricity use, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
Instead of unplugging every gadget manually (which nobody actually does), try this:
Ceiling or standing fans use way less energy than AC units. In summer set your fan to spin counterclockwise for a cooling effect - and close your blinds during the day to keep heat out.
Many are set too high by default. If you can access the control (and it’s allowed) lower the temperature to around 120°F - it’s hot enough for showers and will save you energy.
Most commercial cleaning products are full of harsh chemicals - bad for indoor air quality, not great for your health, and potentially damaging to surfaces in your rental. Good news is there are greener options that are just as effective, often cheaper and safe for most surfaces.
Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in a spray bottle. Good for countertops, mirrors and tile - just don’t use it on stone surfaces like granite or marble. Add a few drops of essential oil if you want a scent.
Need to clean the tub, sink or oven? Sprinkle baking soda, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a damp sponge. Gentle but tough on grime.
Instead of paper towels or disposable wipes, cut up old shirts into cleaning rags. They’re washable, durable and don’t leave lint behind.
If you prefer store-bought options, look for eco-labels and ingredients you recognize. Unscented, non-toxic cleaners are better for your home’s air and safer for pets and kids.
Making your rental feel like home doesn’t mean filling it with fast furniture and plastic decor. With a few intentional swaps, you can style your space sustainably - without risking your security deposit.
According to a 2023 IKEA survey, 60% of renters say they want more sustainable home options - and many are turning to secondhand marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local thrift stores to furnish and decorate. It’s a simple way to save money, reduce waste, and give your space more character.
Plants clean the air, boost your mood and bring color to any room. Low-maintenance varieties like pothos, snake plants or spider plants are perfect for renters who want greenery without the fuss. Use repurposed jars, mugs or baskets as planters for extra charm.
Decorate with peel-and-stick wallpaper, wall decals or command hooks instead of nails or paint. You can take them down with no damage when it’s time to move out - and reuse some of them in your next place.
Swap out synthetic textiles for cotton, linen or jute. These fabrics are breathable, biodegradable and often more durable over time. Think canvas curtains, woven rugs or reclaimed wood accents.
Even if you’re renting with roommates or sharing common areas, you can still cut back on waste without stepping on anyone’s toes.
Not every rental comes with a recycling system, so it helps to create one that’s easy for everyone to use. Label bins clearly and place them where trash tends to pile up - like near the kitchen or entryway. If your building doesn’t offer pickup, check local drop-off sites.
Switch to reusable basics like cloth dish towels, washable mop pads, or beeswax food wraps. They last longer, work just as well, and cut down on your weekly trash. If you’re living with others, agree on shared items that everyone can use to avoid clutter and confusion.
If space allows, stock up on dry goods, cleaning refills, or bathroom staples. Fewer individual packages mean less plastic waste - and a smaller grocery bill. Use airtight jars or repurposed containers to store everything neatly and visibly.
Skip the single-use wipes and harsh chemicals. Instead, use concentrated cleaners, DIY solutions (like vinegar + baking soda), and reusable cloths. They’re safer for your indoor air and easier on the planet.
You don’t need to own a home or pour thousands into upgrades to live more sustainably. With a few smart choices - from energy-saving habits to repurposed decor - you can shrink your footprint, save money, and turn your rental into a greener, healthier space.
And if you’re looking for a rental property that supports your sustainable lifestyle, or you're an investor wanting to attract eco-conscious tenants, we can help.
Looking for a rental that supports your sustainable lifestyle? At National Real Estate Management Group, we specialize in smart, energy-efficient rental properties - and we help investors build and manage them, too.
Whether you're a renter seeking a greener space or an investor ready to make your portfolio more sustainable, let's talk.
E-mail: info@nremg.com
Call us: 833-GO-NREMG
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