7 Biodegradable Items You Need To Include In Your Home

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The materials or items you can bury in the soil without harming the earth are biodegradable. They can decompose quickly by breaking down the earth and providing it with nutrients. 

A natural material takes less than a year to thoroughly break down in the soil. Fungi, insects, and other microorganisms break down the material into smaller bits until it becomes part of the soil. Below are 7 biodegradable items you must buy!

Bamboo

Bamboo is a crop that grows in various seasons. It can rise again after a person has harvested it. This means you don't need to regrow it every time you gather it; it simply grows back again.

It is best for the soil, requires minimal care, and is the best alternative to plastic, steel, and even timber.

Uses

Bamboo can be used in a plethora of way. For instance, you may be able to find:

• Toothbrushes

• Utensils

• Flooring

• Toilet paper

• Clothing

• Furniture

As it is eco-friendly, you can easily dispose of or reuse it. Moreover, Bamboo fiber is also used in making straws for sipping all kinds of liquids like juices. You can also find bamboo drinking bottles, which are a substitute for bottles made of plastic. Using items made of bamboo is beneficial for the soil.  It prevents the soil from erosion. When you grow bamboo, you don't need any extra pesticides or chemicals to protect it from pests because it is perfect for keeping pests away from itself. 

Drawbacks 

• It will attract pests if not treated with chemicals.

• Some people can be allergic to Bamboo.

Mycelium

Mycelium multiplies in the roots of fungi. It converts into fibers before turning into a mushroom. Once grown fully, you bake the Mycelium to eliminate any bacteria. The final product you get is not only durable but also edible. It is said that Mycelium helps to support the body’s immune system.

Uses

Because it is a part of compost, it is a tenable option. It is waterproof and an excellent alternative to styrofoam and plastic packaging. Moreover, Mycelium makes wonderful leather handbags.

Drawbacks

Although Mycelium is environmentally friendly and durable, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. For example, because of its origin, it may not be appealing to the eye and over time, its water resistance slowly decreases which can lead to its vulnerability to mold.

Jute

The jute plant produces a fiber called Jute, commonly used as cotton fiber. In addition to making hessian, Jute is also used to make rugs, baskets, and other high-demand decorative items. 

Uses

If the Jute you are using is pure, you can easily compost it at home, which is a very convenient way of biodegrading. You can easily find items of your choice made of Jute at an affordable price online and in stores worldwide. 

Drawbacks 

Unfortunately, Jute can slowly break down after excessive usage, which is why it is not recommended if you plan on using it often. In addition, because it is a plant-based material, it does not mix with water very well.

Wood 

Start using materials made out of wood as they are sturdy. For long-term use, buy treated wood because untreated wood is sensitive to termites and water. You can find a diverse variety of wood depending on the tree type and the growth place. 

Uses

Aesthetic utensils, cutlery, and crockery made of wood should be your go-to instead of aluminum and plastic. Moreover, there are also disposable wipes made out of wood.

Drawbacks

The major drawback to using wood is the possibility of termites invading.

Bananas

Plastic films are made from banana stem fibers. Fruit coverings that you see on your fruit are made up of Bananas. The plastic film ensures that the fruits remain fresh and intact. This biobased banana film allows the fruit to ripen perfectly at the right time and the banana plastic film to stay intact. 

Uses

Using banana stem fibers reduces the large of number plastic used in the packaging of fruits. 

Besides fruit covering, banana fiber makes sturdy ropes, mats, and cardigans. Nowadays hair extensions are also made of banana fiber, and you can use banana peep shopping bags and disposable cups. 

Drawbacks

The process is not always benign to the environment.

Coconut

Besides using Coconut as a brush for your bottles, you can now use it as a sponge for scrubbing your body and feet. 

Benefits 

It is befitting for sensitive skin too. Once you use the scrubbing sponges to their fullest, just cut them into pieces and sow them in your garden. The sponges are an excellent source of nutrients for the soil which is why they don't take time to decompose.

Drawbacks

Not fit for dying hair.

Cork

The bark of the Cork Oak tree produces a waterproof, fireproof, and lightweight material known as Cork. 

Benefits

It is a beautiful alternative to foam and leather. Cork is also used to make wonderful biodegradable garbage bags. 

You don't need to cut down trees in order to get Cork because you harvest it from grown trees, and it regrows again once you gather it. Cork is commonly found to airtight bottles of wine. Moreover, cork bags, shoe accessories, and musical instruments are standard worldwide.

Drawbacks

The process is costly.

Conclusion

As biodegradable items don't harm the earth, it is essential to remain firm on using reusable and eco-friendly products. Using such items will help you nourish the soil. Most of these items are easy to buy too.