Going green may seem like a passing fad, but for many who have implemented eco-friendly habits, they're reaping the benefits. In addition to reducing your carbon imprint, by choosing green options, you'll lower your utility bills and feel good about yourself. Follow these 10 tips to green your home, inside and out.

Tip #1: Let Your Garden Grow

Growing a garden of your own may seem like a no-brainer, but many homes that consider themselves green don't have gardens. Plant your own fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices that your family enjoys. It's a great activity for the whole family, and you'll save money on groceries and time spent driving to and from stores to purchase food.

Tip #2: Recycle the Rain

When tending to your luscious, verdant garden, put your sprinklers and hoses away. Conserve water and set up rainwater collection units underneath gutters; re-use the rain to water your garden.

Tip #3: Shop Locally

If growing your own garden is out of the question, consider other green methods to cooking. Purchase your foods from a locally-grown farmers market; buying foods from a nearby stand supports the local economy, reduces the amount of shipping and best of all, is healthier for you.

Tip #4: Wash like Your Grandmother Did

Believe it or not, 90% of the power generated to run a washing machine goes towards heating the water-leaving only 10% to run the motor. Washing your dirty laundry (full loads of laundry, mind you) in cold water further reduces your carbon imprint.

Tip #5: Air Your (Clean) Laundry

Nothing is better than the smell of fresh, clean laundry. Your dryer happens to be the number two biggest energy-consuming culprit in your household, next to your refrigerator. Gather clothespins and string and create your very own clothesline. If you don't have time to collect your clean laundry, install a simple pulley system so you can bring your laundry in via a window.

Tip #6: Weather-proof Your House

When Jack Frost is nipping at your nose, your heat might also be escaping out of your home through crevices and cracks. Weather-proof your home by replacing old, worn weather-stripping to reduce the amount of heat or air conditioning required to keep your home comfortable. Also, invest in a programmable thermostat that you can adjust both the heating and air conditioning systems to match your daily habits that change over the seasons. Lowering the temperature by one degree during daytime hours when the house is empty will save you 1% on your energy bill.

Tip #7: If You Aren't Using it, Unplug it

Unplugging unused items is a great way to save on your power bill while simultaneously preventing potential fires. Electronics that are typically left plugged in such as computers, battery chargers, lamps and televisions all use energy, even if they're not being used. Walk through your house and be sure to turn off lights and unplug any used items, and you'll see the benefits on your next power bill.

Tip #8: Brightest Bulbs

Make use of sunshine as best you can by leaving windows and curtains open during the daytime hours. During dusk and evening hours, install energy-saving compact fluorescent light bulbs, commonly referred to CFLs. CFLs also last longer than the average bulb, so you'll save even more money.

Tip #9: Smaller is Better

Computers are almost a necessity for the average household. When deciding what model of computer to purchase, opt for a smaller laptop versus a desktop. Laptops use less power and travel well.

Tip #10: Measure Your Success

As you green your home, purchase a wattmeter. These small tools plug into standard-sized outlets and measure the amount of electric power (in watts) of any given circuit or outlet. This way, you can track how much power your household items require, and you'll be able to track how much power you're saving.