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I have been meaning to write a post about my favourite eco-friendly products for a while now. Since Christmas is coming up, I thought now would be the perfect time. When it comes to buying Christmas presents, I try to buy mine from small businesses rather than big companies. On Etsy, they have made it even easier by having a festive season hub to find the perfect gift depending on the recipient’s taste. I also try not to clutter someone else’s house by buying practical gifts, edible bits or experience gifts. Last year I shared some clutter-free gift ideas if you want to take a look ♡.
(Cover photo by No Revisions on Unsplash)
Beeswax wraps
Beeswax wraps are something I have gifted to people a few times, and the recipients have loved them. They are a brilliant alternative to cling film, and they work much better too. You can get beeswax wraps, or vegan wax wraps if you are vegan/gifting to a vegan. They come in different sizes and there are lots of gorgeous patterns which you can choose from! You can also buy them on a roll and cut them to the size of your choice. Beeswax wraps are good for so many things, including travel. My friend and I took them interrailing and we used them to wrap our sandwiches and leftovers.
Beeswax wraps last really well, but if they do start to look tired you can use a refresher bar on them. Once they have reached the end of their life, you can compost them.
A few of my favourites:
Reusable makeup rounds
This has got to be near the top of my favourite eco-friendly products. My parents got me these for Christmas back in 2019, and they are still going strong. Just think about how many disposable makeup wipes I would have otherwise gone through! These are a great present for the makeup lover in your life, or maybe a teenager who is just getting started with makeup. I use slightly bigger cotton rounds for my face after using cleanser. You can add them into your normal was, I put the makeup rounds in a mini laundry bag it came with to wash. There are also nail varnish remover ones, and these are great too.
Some examples:
Travel mug
I have saved so much money from using my travel mug! A lot of places will now give you a discount if you bring your own mug, and some places give up to 50p. There are lots of great options for travel mugs such as collapsible and insulated mugs in different sizes. This is a really good present for someone who is always buying coffee. A collapsible travel mug is very convenient as it takes up hardly any space, so it’s perfect to keep in your bag in case you fancy a hot drink.
I use the Circular & Co brand which is so easy to use and wash up. I think I’ve been using my travel mug for about 6 years now, so they really do last!
Related post: How being eco-friendly can save you money
Produce bags
Produce bags are really useful for buying loose fruit and vegetables at the supermarket or green grocers. I find that I remember them if they are tucked into my tote bags which I take shopping with me. It’s handy to have a few different sizes so different products fit. I have been noticing that supermarkets are not supplying plastic bags much anymore, and instead they are compostible or paper which is really positive.
A few favourites:
Compostable washing up sponge
I love my compostable washing up sponge, and it lasts a lot longer than plastic sponges! There are a few different types, and that may mean spending more or less money. I am currently using a compostable one from Eco Living. I have previously used a fabric compostable sponge which you can wash with your laundry if it needs a refresh. Then at the end of its life, you can compost it. Eco friendly sponges are also a lot sturdier than plastic sponges.
Tote bag
The last of my favourite eco-friendly products is a tote bag. I’m sure most people will have already made the swap to a tote bag, but they are still a lovely gift to receive. You could even give gifts in a tote bag rather than a paper bag. There are so many lovely designs, in my opinion you can never have too many tote bags!
Fun tote bag designs:
What are your favourite eco-friendly products?
Caroline ♡
Molly Transatlantic Notes says
I love these eco-friendly products and have been looking at phasing out various things and replacing them with things like this. Thanks for the ideas, I like the compostable washing up sponge and will be getting some of those!
Her Digital Coffee says
Great list, Caroline! I’d be happy to give and receive the gifts on this list.