Sourcing labor and materials as locally as possible reduces your item’s transportation, and therefore the amount of carbon emissions associated with the project. If you’re purchasing off Kijiji, the local classifieds site makes it easy to find items in your area, but did you know that there’s an option on eBay.com to sort search results by zip code? Look for the “Distance” box on the lower left-hand side. This also helps to reduce on shipping costs since many items are available for local pick-up!

Before you decide to invest in the makeover of a previously-owned piece, ask yourself if the overall structure and frame of the item is something you’ll be happy with for many years to come. Make sure you love the shape and style, because, regardless of changes in minor decor items, a foundation piece like a couch should stand the test of time.

Additionally, assess for water damage and anything else that would compromise the structural integrity of the piece. If searching on Kijiji, you’ll likely be able to view your desired item in person. If ordering on eBay, take a close look at the images provided and feel free to send the seller a message if any blemishes or spots look questionable - sometimes you can even arrange to check out the piece for yourself.

If the old cushion or stuffing from the existing couch is in decent condition, then chances are that the chemicals have stopped off-gassing and it’ll be much more affordable to keep the original fill. However, if the material is lumpy or the foam is crumbling, it’s best to get new fill if you want the couch to last your lifetime. Make sure to select an eco-friendly option (and there are plenty!) in order to ensure you aren’t exposing yourself and/or the environment to harsh chemicals. Most conventional cushions are made with synthetic foam, which can off-gas in your home and contribute to poor indoor air quality. Here are a few of the most popular natural fill choices; make sure your upholster carries them!

1. Organic Cotton - grown without pesticides, herbicides or insecticides. Often most cost-effective eco-option.

2. Organic Wool - a great choice since wool is renewable (the sheep grow a new coat each shearing), is naturally fire retardant and resistant to dust mites. Organic means that the sheep were not exposed to “cides” at any point in production.

3. Natural Tapped Rubber - the firmest, bounciest selection. Latex is tapped from a rapidly renewable rubber tree (think maple syrup). It heals itself within an hour each time! It is also biodegradable, but don’t worry, it has to be under the right conditions… hidden inside a sofa isn’t the right condition.

There are SO many options for sustainable fabrics on the market, it’s thrilling. For upholstery purposes I like to stick with recycled polyester or organic wool if the piece is going to be heavily trafficked (like 2 children jumping on it). Recycled polyester, or rPET, is made from old plastic bottles; it’s very durable; and comes in an enormous array of colors and patterns. I love Valley Forge’s FRESH Collection (that’s the orange piping I chose), Victor Innovex and Designtex.

Q Collection has an extensive offering of sustainable fabrics like alpaca, hemp, linen, wool and organic cotton (I used their Heather fabric above). O Ecotextiles and LIVE Textiles have stunning alternative fabrics as well!

For fun, modern, organic cotton prints (great for lesser trafficked pieces and pillows), I use Rubie Green and Mod Green Pod. I chose Rubie Green’s Mary style in Natural for my recent telephone bench makeover.

Complete the transformation with some stylish throw pillows. Look for pillows filled with organic cotton, organic wool, buckwheat hulls or kapok (a super soft fiber made from the seed pod of the kapok tree), and covered in a sustainable fabric. Some of my ecofabulous favorites are LoooLo, Humble Collection, Spruce Design, and Ortolan. Or order fabric from any of the companies listed above and make your own!