10 Secrets from the Amish for a More Sustainable Home
Ever wonder how the Amish manage to keep things so simple and stress-free? It’s all about sticking to basics and using clever hacks that make everyday life smoother and more sustainable. The Amish have a knack for practical living that many of us could learn from.
These 10 Amish life hacks are not just about doing things the old-fashioned way; they’re about making smarter choices that can help declutter, save money, and live a cleaner, greener life.
They Avoid Debt Like the Plague
They have a saying that hits hard: “Don’t work for a dead horse.” Imagine still paying for something long after it’s gone—no thanks, right? That’s why the Amish shy away from debt, especially for depreciating assets.
Living within their means isn’t just a nice idea; it’s a way of life. Even when it comes to necessary debts like mortgages, they go in with hefty down payments to avoid the burdens of interest.
They Embrace Simplicity
“More is caught than taught.” That’s an Amish proverb that speaks volumes about their approach to life. From a young age, Amish children learn the value of frugality not by sit-down lessons but by living it daily. They find joy in the small, simple pleasures—like a scoop of ice cream or a game night with family—rather than splurging on the latest gadgets.
This ethos extends to their shopping habits too; why buy new when used will do? By going to garage sales and thrift stores, they ensure that even their indulgences are sensible and sustainable.
They Know How to Light It Up
They’ve got lighting figured out in a way that’s both practical and economical. Many Amish families use repurposed kerosene lamps or thrift store finds to light their homes before the sun comes up. And as the world turns more towards renewable resources, some have even begun integrating solar panels to keep their lights on.
This blend of old and new technologies shows a keen adaptability to meet their needs without compromising their lifestyle.
They Make Their Own Health Remedies
In an age where the pharmacy is just a short drive away, the Amish take a decidedly different approach to healthcare. They prepare homemade remedies from natural ingredients found right in their backyards.
From burn ointments made of burdock leaves and honey to ‘Super Tonic’ concoctions designed to ward off winter ailments, their medicine cabinet is as organic as it gets. They even use dandelion—not as a weed, but as a valuable resource for making blood-purifying teas.
They Master the Art of Organic Fertilization
They understand the cycle of life better than most, turning what many see as waste into a resource. Using animal manure as fertilizer, Amish farmers enrich their soil naturally, ensuring that it’s packed with essential nutrients without the drawbacks of chemical alternatives.
But their agricultural wisdom doesn’t stop there. They also practice companion planting, like growing marigolds alongside vegetables, which naturally wards off pests. This not only produces bountiful crops but also maintains ecological balance, proving that sometimes the best solutions are the ones nature provides.
They Invest in Quality Over Quantity
It might surprise you, but the Amish aren’t afraid to open their wallets for quality. While thriftiness is a hallmark, they also recognize the value of investing in tools that last.
Paying over $100 for a hammer might seem steep, but if that hammer outlasts others and does a better job, it’s considered money well spent.
They Practice Eco-Friendly Farming
Adopting Amish farming methods could change how you interact with your food. They grow everything organically, from fresh veggies to raising their own livestock, ensuring everything is sustainable.
Their approach means they know exactly what’s on their plate, and by preserving seasonal produce through canning and fermenting, they make the most of their harvest year-round. This not only provides quality food but also cuts down on waste.
They’re Pros at Bulk Buying and Food Preservation
The Amish take shopping to a new level with their bulk buying, making their food last and saving money in the process. They avoid frequent trips to the store by preserving their bulk purchases through traditional methods like canning in boiled jars and storing items in a wooden icebox.
This not only keeps their food fresh but also teaches valuable lessons in making resources stretch further.
They Create Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
Diving into the Amish approach to cleanliness can really shift your perspective on everyday chores. They make their own cleaning agents using simple ingredients like vinegar, water, and orange peels. This not only leaves your home smelling fresh but also avoids the chemicals commonly found in store-bought cleaners.
For the more stubborn messes, a homemade paste of vinegar and baking soda can tackle just about anything. They even take it a step further by making their own soap from lard, rainwater, and lye.
They Make Their Own Simple Water Collection Systems
The Amish method of collecting and purifying water is a lesson in self-sufficiency. They use rainwater harvested from their own roofs, guiding it through a homemade filtration system that includes an oak barrel layered with stones, sand, and charcoal.
This process not only cleans the water but does so without the need for modern technology. They rely on manual water pumps, which are not only long-lasting but also ensure that water can be accessed without electricity.
