You spent a month’s pay on a deluxe organic mattress and maintain that it is worth every last cent, even when your pals give you a hard time for such a splurge. But, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. After all, you sleep more soundly each night and awake every morning with an extra burst of energy. And you feel great knowing you’re not breathing in those nasty toxic chemicals. Plus, for a price so steep, it’s bound to last a lifetime, right?

Well, not exactly. And with a big investment like an eco mattress, make sure you practice these tips to extend its shelf life.

The first time you saw the mattress commercial with the wine glass test, you just had to reenact this unlikely scenario. Suffice it to say, a mattress pad is a must. It’s a lot easier to toss it in the wash than spend hours with soap and a scrub brush.

Everybody needs a little fresh air and sunshine, but what you may not know is that your mattress does, too. When it comes time for spring cleaning, take your mattress outside to soak in some rays for an afternoon.

Do you toss your damp towel on the bed after a steaming shower? Over time, this can be a damaging reflex, but it’s nothing some stylish hooks can’t solve.

If your mattress seems to sink in the spot where you snuggle up, then it needs to be flipped and rotated more often. Try working this into your routine whenever you change the sheets.

Jump on your bed for five minutes once every six months. Okay, maybe this won’t help your mattress, but isn’t it fun to revisit your childhood once in awhile?

P.S. If you like the bedding, check it out at VivaTerra.

The post 4.5 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Mattress appeared first on EcoSalon.

Not everyone is going to find the idea of biking to work practical or appealing. The distance might be too far. Or it might be that you’re physically unable to bike. Not to worry. There is another way to get to work in an environmentally and financially friendly way – carpooling.

Just as we’re challenging you to give up the bottle in 2009, we’re also asking you to consider another simple step to easing your pocketbook and helping the planet.

Joining with others who are traveling the same way as you can save you plenty of money. Check out this Carpooling Savings Calculator. You’ll be pleasantly surprised. All it takes is a little research and you could soon be sitting back and enjoying the ride knowing that you’re reducing the dent in your wallet while doing something positive for the environment.

Here’s some places to help you get started:

Commuters can check out sites such as eRideShare.com, RideShare.com, carpoolcrew.com, and ridester.com to find carpooling buddies.

But it’s not just commuters who can benefit from carpooling. Families should have a look at DividetheRide.com, a site that helps organize carpools with families you know and trust. And concert and conference travellers should check out PickUpPal.com, a global ridesharing and carpooling community.

So what are you waiting for? Give it a go.

Image: /kallu

The post Carpooling Helps the Wallet and the Environment appeared first on EcoSalon.

I love my friends and family, but I don’t like giving them gifts. Wait, that didn’t come out right. What I mean is that I don’t like feeling obligated to give them something simply because it’s their birthday or a holiday. It puts me in a stressful situation, wondering what I can possibly give them that they’ll truly like and that fits my budget. Besides, we all have too much “stuff.”

Here’s a better idea: give the gift of time. Everybody needs extra help cleaning out their garage. And work is best done in the presence of loved ones. So rather than shop “Ëœtil your credit limit pops, make a beautiful card pledging a few hours of your dedicated time. Help, smiles and conversation – it’s a gift that everyone will appreciate.

Here are a few ideas of things you can give to each other:

Childcare

Cleaning

Gardening or yardwork

Pet care

Running errands

Letter writing

Hanging art or decorating

Cooking a meal

Organizing a closet

Helping plan a travel itinerary

Computer or web help

Household repairs

Unfinished DIY projects

This list could go on forever. Perhaps you’re an ace at polishing resumes – why not offer it to your friend who is looking for a new job? Maybe you’re a natural when it comes to packing for a trip – your disorganized gal pal might love some help. Swap your skills and give the gift of time. Everyone will come out feeling as if they’ve received the best gift. What are things you could give?

Editor’s note: Special thanks to LA for the great idea.

Image: Michel Filion

The post Avoid 'Stuff' Overload: Give Your Time Instead appeared first on EcoSalon.