shop sustainable, shop small 2024 holiday gift guide

100+ websites to shop small

Choosing ethical and sustainable practices is a huge investment for small shops, and it can be a real risk for those with already tight margins. Slow production also means sourcing materials and creating in lower quantities, which can increase costs as well. Keep in mind that no one has it all figured out.

Want to shop small but have your own budget to be mindful of (uh yes!)? Make sure to review each brand’s website for exclusives such as discounts when signing up for their newsletter!

Pillows by Zuahaza, subscribe to their emails for 10% off your first purchase. Read more about Zuahaza here.

If you have struggled in the past to know where to start when it comes to sustainable shopping, we hope this opens your eyes to just a small fraction of the businesses paving the way! We’re seriously in AWE of all the shops on this list! Hope you are too.

Home & Lifestyle

Ruffle coasters and striped green and pink napkins made from fabric remnants from our shop, wallflower

1. Zuahaza (featured here)
2. Maria Ida Designs
3. wallflower
4. Made Trade
5. Sister Golden
6. Holistic Habitat
7. Will + Atlas
8. Baba Souk (featured here)
9. Bole Road Textiles
10. Sophie Williamson Design
11. Quinta Esencia Studio
12. Korissa
13. Woven Rosa
14. Garza Marfa
15. Kazi Goods

Glassware and ceramics by Woven Rosa

16. fruitsuper
17. TerraKlay (featured here)
18. Soukie Modern
19. Sfingiday
20. Tribe
21. Wildwood Candle Co
22. Ichcha
23. Ixoq

Fashion, Jewelry, & Accessories

Colorblock jumpsuit by Nissa New York

24. The Cura Co
25. The Slow Mode
26. Chila Bags
27. RŪPAHAUS
28. Osei-Duro
29. Ace & Jig
30. Proclaim
31. Drawn
32. Maaari
33. Wray
34. Omi Na Na
35. Soluna Collective
36. Grey State Apparel
37. Parade
38. Bel Kazan

Upcycled denim pants by Soluna Collective

39. Picnicwear
40. APPRVL
41. Hathorway
42. Graziano & Gutierrez
43. Pansy
44. Aday
45. Uniform Handmade
46. Nissa New York
47. Room Shop
48. For Days
49. Nobody’s Child
50. Orejas
51. LA Relaxed
52. Valerie Madison Jewelry

Orejas Retro Tee

53. Girlfriend
54. Poplin & Co
55. Fair Jewelry
56. Mixed
57. Oge Ajibe
58. Fellow Earthlings
59. Jess Meany
60. Loud Bodies
61. Paneros Clothing
62. Prism Seattle
63. Tuesday
64. Tipsy Flamingo Clothes
65. Mien
66. Isabella Eve Apparel
67. Maika Goods
68. Kiska
69. warp + weft

Beauty & Self Care

Bloom Jelly Serum Bar by Dew Mighty

70. Umanos
71. Tidalove
72. Homebody
73. Everist
74. People of Color
75. Nana + Livy
76. Golde
77. Activist Skincare
78. Dew Mighty
79. Wild Lather
80. TERRA-TORY
81. Terra & Co.
82. Bare Skin Bar
83. Axiology
84. Saipua
85. DANO
86. Habit
87. Sade Baron
88. Wylde One
89. JACQ’s
90. Activist Manuka
91. Circumference
92. PAPR
93. Smithmade Essentials
94. Particle Goods
95. Rustic Glory Soap Co
96. Dogwood Botanicals
97. Etta + Billie
98. Merigold
99. Undefined Beauty

Sustainable Children’s Shops | Mamas + Little

Kids in Wunderlang (photo by @sa_yu_ki_ko)

100. Thistle & Poppy
101. Willaby
102. Chasing Windmills
103. Plain Jane
104. Soor Ploom
105. Ebb & Thread
106. La Petite Chose
107. Anise & Ava
108. Wunderlang
109. Mainio
110. Avanchy
111. Bebe Organic
112. Bizz x Siss
113. Colored Organics

Note: Most of the shops above are US based with a handful in Canada and a couple other international locations.

What small shops or sustainable gift ideas would you add to this list? Check out our other sustainable gift guides for even more small shops to support this holiday season:

Eco Club 2024 Gift Guide For Everyone
25 Sustainable Self Care Gift Ideas For Your Stressed Out Pals
25 Sustainable Gift Ideas For Zero Waste Enthusiasts
25 Sustainable Gift Ideas For A Well Curated Home
25 Sustainable Gift Ideas For Fashion Lovers

The post 100+ Websites to Shop Small in 2024 for Ethical & Sustainable Gifts appeared first on Eco Club.

I know that not everyone can opt for the ethically made gift or sustainable alternative in every situation (I certainly can’t), but every purchase you make to a small business matters so much (as someone with a boutique of her own, I know more than ever). Whatever you can buy from basically anyone but Amazon (and the other giants out there) is making progress toward a more just world. It also shows the recipient (and whoever else may be present during a gift exchange) how special shopping small can be, if you went the extra mile to shop a gift guide like this or go out to your local brick and mortar businesses and seek out that perfect gift. It could inspire them to do the same!

And, if you’re in a place where these gifts aren’t quite right, are out of your price range, you aren’t gifting to anyone who would truly love and appreciate them (I hear you), or aren’t participating in consumerism at all, that’s cool too. If nothing else, now you know about a whole lot of incredible makers and small business owners to think back to if you ever have a need.

Okay, here we go! See below for our 2024 gift guide to womens and mens fashion (for ease of search, you know the person you’re shopping for best and they certainly don’t need to fit into a box), home, beauty and wellness, and lastly baby and kids. Enjoy!!!

2024 gift guides

sustainable christmas gifts for her

GOTS organic cotton square neck cami by eco club member LA Relaxed is another on my own Christmas wishlist. Good tanks are hard to come by, especially when made ethically and organically, and this is an instant staple. The square neck is back!

Handmade Moroccan raffia slides come in several bold colors, hot pink, green, black, and yellow. Personally torn between the green and pink.

Zella quilted jacket is water resistant, on-trend, and half off! If you’re currently on the hunt for a sustainable puffer jacket for yourself or someone else, also peruse our recently updated mega guide here!

Hemp silk scrunchie from our shop, wallflower.

Baggu puffy fanny pack was a hit in our sustainable fanny packs post, so you likely know someone who would be into it. It’s recycled!

Cuerda one of a kind beaded earrings by Kisiwa are handmade from Japanese glass beads in Seattle. Fun for all those dopamine dressers in your life!

Faded denim jacket by Universal Standard is a beautiful luxury gift for a great price (both for sustainable brands and for denim jackets in general), and it comes in sizes 00—40.

I own this “Let’s Go For A Walk” hat by Flowerhead Hats and everyone I run into seems to love it just as much as I do.

Arctic Fox & Co’s Stockholm scarf is made from 100% recycled materials and comes in solids and plaids. It looks soo cozy on!

The RIB high rise legging two pack from Girlfriend (or any other pair of legging) is a gift they will thank you for, guaranteed. I know because my friends gifted me a pair years ago and I was grateful to have a chance to really test the quality of something I hadn’t brought myself to invest in at the time. If you know someone who’s used to basic fast fashion leggings, these are the best surprise! Girlfriend makes our gift guides every single year.

A big cotton hair bow from Nobody’s Child, a London-based brand that we featured in our holiday dress roundup.

holiday gift guide (or christmas wishlist ideas!) for the home

You can’t go wrong with a set of luxe towels, and this set from Misona is made of bamboo and cotton fibers.

Pretty Pears art print by Sabina Fenn from wallflower is perfect if you know the recipient loves art or flowers, but you’re not totally sure of their style. It’s simple and sweet!

Block print waves throw pillow by eco club member Casa Amarosa looks beautiful in minimalist and maximalist homes alike.

Rangoli tufted lumbar pillow cover in Wine + Pink by Casa Amarosa is for those that love a good pop of color—and artisan made goods.

Kazi’s woven table runner elevates every table with a relaxed elegance in a sweet coral and green palette.

Moi Moli’s velvet pillow from wallflower is soft, cozy, and big on the ruffles. Made by a small Polish business!

Our alpaca throw is another piece I’ve tried myself, and it’s absolutely a step (or ten) up from your typical throw blanket. Light, soft, and luxurious.

Abigail plaid kitchen towel from Archive NY is one of the prettiest plaid patterns I’ve ever seen.

Wolf and Badger’s set of two raffia placemats is another lovely hostess pick.

Pastel woven coaster set by Kazi is a great way to incorporate a natural material without having to forgo color.

A speckled, handpainted cake stand by Egg Back Home, a Portugal-based ceramic studio, which you can find in lavender, yellow, or pink. How fun would this be as a housewarming or wedding gift, too?!

clean beauty and wellness 2024 gift guide

Eco club member PAPR cosmetics grapefruit deodorant is a nice little gift for anyone working on a sustainable care package or stocking that’s eco-friendly and nontoxic. I’ve used it and it’s one of the more effective natural brands I’ve tried with unique scents too.

Eu’Genia Essence of Grapefruit Shea Butter comes in a cute tin—super luxurious shea butter in a little package. I have this and use it all winter when my skin is extra dry. Other scents available!

This Detangling Wide Tooth Hair Comb from Solar Eclipse is made from cellulose acetate and who wouldn’t want to see these confetti-inspired hues?

Eco club member Axiology’s Fungdation is the first foundation infused with reishi and snow mushrooms! This is a brand new product so you can almost guarantee they haven’t tried it yet. Axiology is vegan, all natural, zero waste, plastic-free, no nasties, and a small brand with heart, so you can’t go wrong.

We included Kinship Naked Papaya Gentle Enzyme Milky Cleanser and Mint Mud Deep Pore Detox Mask because not only are they adorable and highly rated, everything is packaged with Ocean Waste Plastic. If you couldn’t tell by now, recycled and sustainable packaging can be just as beautiful as its virgin counterparts. If only the rest of the world would figure that out.

Indie Lee Co Q10 Toner is one of my own Christmas wishlist ideas, as I’ve tried and love their face cleanser.

Tower 28 OneLiner Multi-Liner for something trendy that will become a mainstay in their beauty routine. I have their SOS serum and love it too!

Marine greens haircare bundle from Seattle-based Umanos is a plastic-free shampoo and conditioner duo made with bladderwrack, aloe vera, and green tea.

You may know Nopalera from their luxury bar soaps, now take things up a notch with their Cactus Flower Exfoliant.

Everist body wash bundle to elevate their body care and sustainability game. If you haven’t seen it, find our Everist review here where we talk about their shampoo, conditioner, body wash and sponge—and whether they’re worth the price tag.

RMS Beauty eyelight cream eyeshadow comes in four dreamy colors.

Axiology Zero Waste Balmies Superfan Pack is for the one who loves experimenting with beauty and never leaves home without a little glow. There’s a lot packaged into this little box. I own (and love) it, but it doesn’t get as much use as I work from home and only makeup a couple times a week. If you’re gifting for someone like that, opt for one of their trios. Either way, the product itself is awesome and multi-use, for your eyes, skin, face etc.

Sea to Skin cleansing gel from another member Activist Skincare is a great entry to the refillable skincare game.

sustainable luxury gifts for men

A 100% recycled patch hat from Prana for the hat guys in your life.

Nisolo mens everyday sneakers are Leather Working Group Certified and handmade in Peru.

Made in a fair trade factory, Pact’s organic cotton terry crew comes in 5 colors. I got my partner this last year and he still wears it.

Frank and Oak’s corduroy pants are made from organic cotton in a nice caramel brown, perfect for fall and winter.

If you’re going for luxury gifts for men, they also offer this quilted jacket made from recycled polyester for a good layering piece.

One more from Frank and Oak, their recycled quilt tote was made for winter errands. Also in my favorite color!

Pact’s woven twill roll up pants are one of those cozy athleisure styles that looks good enough to wear to dinner.

Earth backpack from Terra Thread is made with GOTS certified organic cotton canvas and comes in several bright hues.

I included Fulton’s sustainable insoles because they’re such a creative and practical gift for the active guy or gal that also loves shoes (and thus needs to make all styles as comfortable as possible). And if they love a good sustainable solution – this brand is one they’ll want to know about.

Poplin & Co specializes in artfully designed, responsibly made menswear for the print obsessed. Our 2024 gift guide features their cantaloupe shorts, but they have tons of different prints and styles.

You can’t go wrong with an organic cotton beanie in the wintertime!

Lastly, if you’ve got a holiday wishlist with sustainable undies on it, WAMA’s hemp underwear is eco friendly, size inclusive, and super comfy.

cute sustainable baby + kids gift ideas

Kids custom dinosaur name puzzle from Busy Puzzle is good for supporting the development of fine motor skills and it doubles as beautiful nursery décor. Always love a personalized gift for babies!

Responsible Wool Standard merino wool thermal long johns in Dijon from Chasing Windmills comes in sizes from baby to big kid.

The silicone bento boxes from Austin Baby Co come from a mama-owned small business. I have a very pastel thing going, so I chose the lavender, but there are many colors and designs to choose from.

Waffle baby blankets in the cutest colors from Sugar House Swaddles (50% off right now!). This is actually the color palette I want for my bathroom—I found this shop while searching for hand towels. Love the idea of creating a set of these baby blankets to gift using the colors of a baby’s nursery.

Cloud woven wall hanging in retro colors by Tvoye Macrame is the sweetest little nursery gift there ever was, at a wonderful price for something special that’s handmade.

Such a darling handcrafted wooden cat pull toy from DK Wooden Toys. All of their little animal toys are so beautiful!

Pastels for a nursery? Groundbreaking, we know! But our first baby product featured on wallflower, this TBCo recycled baby blanket is the absolute sweetest gift for a new addition to the family!

Soft pink linen cloud pillow by Moi Moli from wallflower would make the loveliest, sustainable baby gift for a nursery, though as someone with pink walls in her living room, you could use it anywhere for a pop of whimsy.

For bigger kids, My Botanical Press by Tender Leaf Press is a wooden flower press that allows kids to collect and preserve flowers and leaves. All of Tender Leaf Press’s toys are so thoughtful, earth-friendly, and creative!

We hope our 2024 gift guide helps you source the most thoughtful and eco-friendly gifts for any loved one on your list. For more ideas on where to shop small this season, check out our updated guide to 100+ small business here, and our directory of sustainable shops here!

The post The Ultimate 2024 Guide To Sustainable Gifts They’ll Actually Love appeared first on Eco Club.

(If you’re not familiar with the devastating effects the palm oil industry is having on our environment and the people and organisms within it, we’ve posted the basics here, how to quit it here, an AP investigation here.This very dated article is also a good start if you’re new to the issue and its effects on threatened and endangered animals.)

I know that a lot of other common body care ingredients can have detrimental effects on our planet, but I think avoiding palm oil is really the best place you could start, especially if you’re new to natural beauty. And it just so happened that the biodegradable soap brands I’ve listed below are all women-owned, making soaps in small batches that are free of lots of other questionable ingredients you’ll find in more conventional products. And the packaging on these beauties? Yup, 10000% eco club approved:

TERRA-TORY is an NY based all-natural soap company touting 100% Natural 0% Bullsh*t Skincare. This is a very rare company that is both palm and coconut oil free… Learn more on their website.

Vegan + eco friendly soap from Smithmade Essentials are fun & fragrant artisan soaps handmade in small batches in New Haven, CT. On their site you can find the full details about each ingredient used.

No Tox Life has their own line of body cleansing bars wrapped in recycled paper for shipping. Be sure to grab their famous dish wash block and deodorant while you’re there!

BHAVANANYC makes all-natural, vegan sea salt soap bars using luxe natural ingredients like activated charcoal and Rose Kaolin Clay.

Bell Mountain Naturals are makers of natural small batch soaps that are super cute, and always palm free. You might be familiar with their gem design!

UK vegan soap-on-a-rope brand KLEEN cures their all-natural soaps for a minimum of 6 weeks and uses only skin-friendly, eco-friendly ingredients that are free of palm oil, parabens, and toxins. Not to mention, their packaging and branding is totally gift-worthy.

Another handmade soap brand, Unearth Malee specializes in palm oil free Thai-inspired soaps, lotions, lip balms, and even solid dish soap! To further raise awareness of the devastating effects of palm oil, the brand donates a portion of sales to help save the endangered orangutan. Learn more in founder Marie’s Etsy shop!

Naked & Thriving is a sister and brother founded skincare brand that offers products free of over 2500 potentially harmful ingredients, environmentally-friendly (free of palm oil of course), and with many organic ingredients for a truly natural clean. They have a full line of skincare, from cleansing bars to oils to

Founded in 2019, Rustic Glory Soap Co offers both scented and unscented palm oil free soap bars infused with nourishing essential oils and botanicals. And they are just the prettiest bars to place on your bathroom counters!

Latina woman owned soap brand Nopalera harnesses the power of Native Mexican Prickly pear cactus along with healing plant oils for nourishing soaps, moisturizers and creams.

The brands above also feature sustainable packaging, making truly biodegradable soap for us all to enjoy… sans palm oil.

On the hunt for more zero waste body and skincare products? Check out these brands!

We are always looking for beautiful, natural, quality skincare and body brands to add to our lists. If you know of another palm oil free bar soap brand, let us know below!

The post Back to Basics: 10 Natural, Women Owned, Palm-Oil Free Bar Soap Brands appeared first on Eco Club.

Full transparency, because this is a (spoiler alert) positive review, and we did indeed add them to our list of top sustainable brands we love, we use affiliate links throughout this post. If you buy through one of those links, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Thanks for understanding and keeping this blog alive!

What is everist?

Everist is a line of waterless haircare and bodycare products that reduce environmental impact of shipping water by offering concentrates of their formulas. They also exclude conventional chemicals and single use plastic. If you’re not familiar with the brand, check out their insta for info and tutorials.

Their schtick: “Most shampoos, conditioners and body washes are more than 70% water, made from petrochemicals and packed in single-use plastic. We took out the water, packed in the skincare ingredients and concentrated them down into luxe creams to make products that are better for the planet and amazing for your hair, skin and scalp.”

Each tube contains only the formula itself — you mix it with water while you’re in the shower. The idea is, you’re already using these in the shower, why wouldn’t you just use the water you have in there with you?

These products are the latest in the movement toward quality personal care products that are as harmless to the planet as they are to the person using them. I love this concept personally because one of my biggest pet peeves is when brands tout their nontoxic ingredients and health benefits, while showing little to no concern for the planet — which is, as you may know, our home. Mother Earth’s health is our health, you know!

Anyway, Jenn and I each used the everist waterless haircare products and body wash for the last several months. We have different hair types and skin needs, so we figured we’d each share our take.

Angela left, Jenn right

Angela’s everist review

• Hair Type: fine but not thin, long, straight
• Concerns: gets greasy quickly, lacks volume
• Wash: 3x per week
• Dose: about .5″ shampoo, a little more to condition
• Using everist for: 5 months

shampoo + conditioner concentrate

I wash my hair every 2-3 days. Prior to everist, I didn’t have a go-to shampoo and conditioner, I’d pretty much try a new one each time I had to stock up. Everist typically recommends using an inch-long dose of the product, but they told me people use anywhere from .5″ to 1.5″ per wash and that while most customers replenish every three months, some replenish every month, so it really varies as far as how fast they go through the tube.

I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was for me to work the shampoo and body wash into a lather. For the shampoo, I’d make sure my hair was completely wet, as well as my hands. I’d rub together in my hands a little (but it’s a bit squirmy and I didn’t want to drop the stuff) and then just kinda slide it over the top of my head and massage it into my scalp from there. The more I massaged, the sudsier it got, which made it easier to move across the rest of my scalp. I feel like this is an advantage over shampoo bars.

The conditioner required a bit more each wash, but I have pretty long hair (below my chest) so I go higher than just roots. After using for a couple weeks, I loved how my hair looked after the wash, condition, and drying. That said, I had to get used to the fact that my hair wasn’t as soft and tangle-free as it would be after I’d use a conventional conditioner. Conventional conditioners usually make it easier to comb through hair (which is prone to those very tiny but painful knots) but I found with this conditioner I maintained my post-shampoo tangles. That didn’t bother me though because I use de-tangler religiously, so as long as I kept up that routine I was good. And once brushed through and dried, it looked great!

the body wash concentrate

While I liked the waterless shampoo and conditioner concentrates, I loved the body wash! I’ve always been sensitive to fragrance, but still wanted the clean feeling that you sometimes lack with unscented products. This is like the best of bold worlds. Super subtle, no strong scent, and yet I actually felt like I was getting a good clean. I would absolutely spring for the bundle with the biodegradable konjac sponge (and I have), because it helps it reach full lather status. Just remember to wring your sponge out and hang to dry — if it stays wet, it will disintegrate (trust me). Can your loofah do that?!

the packaging

The packaging, tubes, and keys are recycled and recyclable (anyone else hate when brands brag about being recyclable? Oh, so you’re made of literally anything? Cool.) As far as the caps, which are too small for curbside recycling, you can find instructions on their website. This eco-friendly packaging is actually a huge reason why everist products are priced the way they are (their superior ingredients are another reason). Ever since we started our own online boutique, both Jenn and I have even more respect for those who invest in sustainable packaging. It’s truly so expensive and hard to find.

The bottom line: is everist worth the money?

I highly recommend everist, but with some caveats: My bundle actually lasted me around four months, making my cost per month for hair + body care products lower than someone who has to re-up more often. I just started using my second round, and hope to sustain it going forward. And I absolutely recommend to someone who is used to using luxury haircare products, as the price is really quite reasonable ($28 a pop) when compared to designer shampoos and conditioners. However, if I had to use more often, I’d probably have to (begrudgingly) supplement with a cheaper product to stay within my budget.

You do have to be willing to get used to the idea of a concentrate. I’ve actually enjoyed the journey so far. I’m normally always in a rush, and this kind of forces me to be a bit more mindful about my routine.

jenn’s everist review

• Hair Type: naturally wavy/curly 2C hair
• Concerns: is often dry and tangles quickly
• Wash: 3x per week
• Dose: 1-1.5 inch of shampoo, same for conditioner
• Using everist for: 3 months

my experience

After using it for about three months, I love that it makes my hair feel super clean and also shiny. At first, I felt like I was using a lot of the product and that I’d run out early because I have so much hair, but there’s actually a lot in those tubes! I apply the shampoo to the top of my scalp and work into a lather, but I apply extra under my hair too (that’s where it can get really oily).  Sometimes takes a while to get it into a lather, although I love how my hair looks and feels after. When it comes to the body wash, the konjac sponge really helps with this, though a loofah works too.

The conditioner is amazing! I mainly apply this to my ends but since I have long hair (and a lot of it), I end up using more than an inch. I leave it on for 5-10 minutes while washing my face, shaving, etc.

Something to note: I’m pregnant and have been the entire time I’ve used everist. I know everyone talks about dramatic hair changes during those pregnancy months! For me, I feel like it’s just been a bit more unruly and drier than usual. I’ll update this posts when I’ve used it a few months postpartum!

would I recommend everist?

Yes! I’d definitely recommend everist if you have the budget for it. Personally, I would have to restock more often than Angela, but if budget weren’t an option I’d consider buying regularly.

Shop helloeverist.com and follow them on IG here!

The post Our Everist Review is Here! appeared first on Eco Club.

(And I know the “zero-waste jar” was a cutesy way to visualize your trash as you reduce single-use consumption, but the trend is kind of dead—and decorating with literal wrappers is giving major seagull vibes.)

It can be hard to feel like you’re making a difference when basically all consumer goods generate some level of waste. But that’s why it’s important to find the companies working to make sustainability more accessible and start transitioning how you shop, one staple at a time. So whether you’re looking to make a few changes in your kitchen, bathroom, or even your living room, we’ve got you covered.

10 companies making it easier to reduce waste

HoldOn

If you’re a hobby chef, or just seem to create a lot of trash, HoldOn makes heavy-duty, plant-based compostable bags that are a great alternative to the usual plastic ones. They’re also  TUV Home Compostable Certified, which means you can compost them commercially, or in your home compost, making it accessible to both those with local compost options and those who take it into their own hands at home.

Speaking from personal experience, I prefer HoldOn to BioBag because they have a drawstring closure. I have noticed, however, that any liquids tend to make the bags leak (which probably proves how compostable they are). I also love HoldOn’s compostable freezer bags. Makes saving food so much easier for those of us opting out of Zip-loc.

Matter

Another great plastic bag alternative, Matter is a bit more durable than HoldOn and so takes months, instead of weeks, to compost. I’ve only used the baggies from Matter because the trash bags are almost double the price of HoldOn’s, and have no complaints so far!

Both brands can be found at Target, making them incredibly accessible, and kind of eliminate any qualms about switching.

Ridwell

We all love the idea of recycling, but don’t always love the actual effort it takes to find a center or sort your recyclables. That’s why Ridwell offers a subscription service that picks up hard-to-recycle goods like plastic film, batteries and corks from your front porch, and does all the work for you.

Their tiered pricing plans are shockingly affordable, with the lowest one being $14/month and pick up every 2 weeks!

Sun & Swell

As much as I love the Welch’s fruit snacks, the individual packaging kills me inside… as do the artificial ingredients. So if you’re looking for a healthier, planet-friendly snack alternative, Sun & Swell has a range of clean, organic, plant-based snacks that come in compostable packaging!

While you can compost the packaging yourself, if you’re feeling lazy you can also get a prepaid mailer from Sun & Swell to have them compost it for you with their send-back program.

Everist

If you’re a fan of bar shampoos or package-less bath products, you’re going to love everist. They make waterless shampoo, conditioner, and body wash concentrates that eliminate the need to ship water, like conventional personal care brands do (since most of what’s in the bottle is simply h2o!). Plus, products are packaged in 100% recycled paper and aluminum containers, and they offer a program for you to ship your plastic caps back to them for upcycling.

Their whole business and website are dedicated to the message of reducing and recycling waste as a way to disrupt the beauty industry. They’re carbon-neutral, give back to the community, and promote transparency with a clear ingredient guide for all consumers. Oh, and it actually works (but more on that next week).

Farmacy

Who says you can’t look like a million bucks while reducing your carbon footprint? Farmacy has continually worked to go green since switching to 100% recyclable caps and jars 2019.

They pledged to go carbon-neutral with their shipping and transition to waste-free packaging in 2022, and continue to improve their supply chain and operation to be a truly sustainable beauty company. They’re also Leaping Bunny Certified, and partner with ClearForMe to implement ingredient transparency. (Be still, my heart!)

Glow Recipe

Glow Recipe reached carbon-neutral status in April 2022, and all their packaging is 100% recyclable. They also launched their first refillable product in 2021; you pop out the pod and replace it with a refill in their glass jar!

They’ve also made their sustainability efforts more accessible with diagrams of how to insert refills on their website, as well as offering to recycle their containers for consumers in partnership with TerraCycle.

Ruggable

Anyone with a pet knows the pain of having them mess up a rug at some point. Whether it’s fur, pee, or throw-up, our love for our furry friends comes at a cost. That’s why Ruggable is such a game changer, they’re the first company of their kind to offer rugs that are washable. Their rugs come in 2 parts, with the top Rug Covers being interchangeably attached to the bottom Rug Pad. They also use recycled materials when possible, and donate usable returns to individuals who are aging out of the foster care system.

Another, smaller company that champions washable rugs, ethical practices, and sustainable materials is Australian brand Ohh Happy Home (seen here).

Fernish

We all talk about fast fashion, but not about fast furniture. And we all know that, as affordable as it is, IKEA is not made for longevity. Enter, Fernish—a furniture rental company that lets you decorate your home with high-quality items for as long (or as little) as you like! While they refurbish all their furniture before each rental, when their items inevitably get worn down, they donate them to a list of charitable organizations or recycle when possible.

What brands would you add to this list? Give them a shout out below! And if you’re looking for even more support in cutting down on waste, check out our big roundup of where to shop zero waste online.

The post 10 Everyday Companies Making it Easier to Reduce Waste  appeared first on Eco Club.

What is Plastic Free July?

Plastic Free July is a charity dedicated to reducing single-use plastic (SUP) waste; they offer resources, ideas, and a fun sign-up challenge to get consumers motivated and mobilized. Although the foundation is based in Australia, their campaign is open to all, and they share a variety of ways for individuals and organizations to get involved. For those that need a little dopamine kick to stay on-task, Plastic Free July is the perfect way to create attainable goals and set yourself up for some instant gratification.

And for the commitment-phobes (I know you’re out there) here’s a few steps you can take on your own without the hullabaloo:

Shop loose or bulk groceries

While the convenience of pre-packaged salads and bagged grapes is undeniable, choosing to bring your own bags and/or buying loose produce and bulk grains can help you reduce the amount of SUPs you consume.

If you want to take it a step further, you can research local small-batch and sustainable shops in your area, supporting your community while saving money and trying out a new way of shopping!

Opt to combine packages

I know we all love Amazon.

I also know we feel terrible about loving Amazon.

But unless you’re willing to avoid online shopping like the plague in July, one way to cut your SUPs is by choosing to have your deliveries bundles into fewer boxes. It might take an extra day or two to arrive, but it’s an easy, zero-effort way to be a little more sustainable.

Of course, you can always take it a step further and opt-out of Amazon shopping for the month—it’s all about what feels doable to you.

Join a community clean-up

This is for the extroverts, or people of action. If you want to make a tangible difference that you can see, try joining a local beach or park clean-up! You get to meet new, like-minded people, and flex on your Insta while beautifying your community.

If you want to be involved without being *involved,* you can also organize, donate to, or share the event to spread awareness. There are a variety of reasons someone may not be able to physically contribute to a clean-up, but there’s many equally impactful alternatives to support the cause!

Contact your local government

For those who are passionate about making a difference and unafraid to speak up, calling your local representative can be a great way to initiate change in your community. Share how you feel about new laws or mandates that are up for voting on, or demand change for specific situations in your area.

You can also spread awareness by involving your friends and family, and even write a script for them to follow if lack of knowledge is keeping them from getting involved.

It’s important to remember that reducing SUP consumption doesn’t just have to be buying less plastics. Building awareness is an equally important way to increase your impact, and grow the movement.

It’s also important to remember you’re just one person. Sometimes avoiding single use plastics isn’t an option, and it’s okay if you don’t adhere to a plastic-free life 100% of the time. Becoming more sustainable is a lifelong journey that modern consumerism doesn’t always cater to. And getting caught up in an all-in mindset can lead to discouragement, and then defeat.

Take going green day-by-day and understand that your best effort is important and valid. Celebrate your wins, and remember to give yourself grace—changing the world takes more than one Plastic Free July.

The post 4 Simple Ways To Celebrate Plastic Free July appeared first on Eco Club.

It was large, bulky, and heavy, but most importantly, it required *gulp* effort. 

But after some, okay a lot, of research into safety razors vs. cartridge razors, I quickly found the benefits of a safety razor largely outweighed the convenience of a (plastic) cartridge razor. And after making the switch, my days of plastic ‘refills’ and plastic disposable razors are behind me. My skin and my conscience are happy and I’m convinced everyone should make the switch. 

photo by Oui The People

Safety razors vs cartridge razors: what’s the difference?

Safety razors may look new and shiny, but they’re kind of the OG way to shave. Waaaay back in the early 1900s, King Camp Gillette—yep, that Gillette—patented the first safety razor. With some help, he invented a blade so thin you could throw it away instead of sharpening it. How convenient! 

By the early 1970s, everyone was using a partially disposable razor, and by the end of the decade, the fully disposable razor was living its best life. 

Benefits of safety razors over cartridge (disposable) razors

After 100+ years, safety razors are recapturing our attention as they embody a perfect blend of convenience and sustainability with the added bonus of being great for your skin.  

Safety Razor Benefits For Your Skin

• A silky smooth close shave – It’s the angle of the razor against your skin that gives you a close shave, not necessarily the number of blades. 
• Reduced razor burn and irritation – Having the touchpoint of only one blade is a huge benefit for anyone with sensitive skin or prone to shaving irritation. 
• Reduced acne, bumps, and ingrown hairs – Multiple blades pull, tug, and repeat, whereas the single blade reduces that pull leading to less razor burn, bumps, and ingrown hairs.
• Safety razors also easily come apart for cleaning. You can’t really clean a cartridge razor so soap, skin, and other stuff remain in between the blades and on the strip and contributes to acne and irritation.

The razor industry generated a staggering amount of revenue and pollution in 2021 ($17,405,000 to be exact). With recyclable metal handles and infinitely recyclable stainless steel blades, safety razors significantly reduce plastic waste. 

safety razor benefits for the environment

• No plastic is manufactured or sent to the landfill
• Refills are affordable, universal (and plastic-free) – The universal design of the blades allows for affordable replacements from various retailers or local eco-shops—meaning long-term convenience and cost savings for you.
• Blades and handles are recyclable – Many take-back programs are available which ensure blade recycling.
• Extremely long lifespans – A safety razor will last you for years but it’s great to know that if/when you need to dispose of your razor, the entire razor can be recycled.
  • Return your blades to the original manufacturer.
  • Contact your recycling center for local recycling instructions.
  • Check out local eco-stores for blade return programs.

How long does a safety razor last?

With good care and maintenance, a safety razor handle will last for years, potentially even a lifetime. The duration of each blade will vary depending on how often you use it, and your preference, but the general consensus is that each blade will last around 6 shaves. 

Keeping your razor clean and ‘dry’ will help the razor and the blades last longer and keep it from rusting.

To clean your safety razor

• Rinse off the hair and soap
• Open the razor
• Shake off the water/pat dry
• Close it back up tightly
• Keep it stored out of the water. 

How to use a safety razor

Safety razors are known for higher quality shaves mostly because of their purposeful design and the materials used to make them.

Tips for using a safety razor

• Select an assistant (soap, oil, shaving cream)
• Place the razor against your skin at a 30-45 degree angle
• Lightly pull, working with the shape and weight of the razor. 

Because the head doesn’t pivot (on most), you’ll want to pay closer attention to the shape of your skin and adjust as you go. If you have thick or coarse hair, try shaving with the direction of hair growth first and then repeat against the direction of hair growth. 

How to choose & change a safety razor

There are a few varieties of safety razors to fit different preferences and needs. Look for a style that makes the most sense to you!

*When changing and handling your blade, grab the blade by the short outer ends.

the two-piece

On a two-piece safety razor, the top piece screws on and off from the bottom piece which is attached to the handle.

To insert the blade, unscrew the top piece, place the blade on the mounting posts, put the top piece back on, and tightly secure it. 

the butterfly

The butterfly razor feels both modern and ancient at the same time. Twist the lower part of the handle which will open the top piece in two flaps from the center outward. Put the blade in the middle and twist the handle again to close it tightly. 

the three piece

In the three-piece safety razor, the handle detaches from the two top components. 

To change the blade, unscrew the handle from the top two pieces, separate them, insert the blade, reform the sandwich, and screw the handle back on.

6 plastic-free safety razors outperforming their cartridge counterparts

Oui The People. Oui The People, previously recommended by Eco Club, makes the list again. With a focus on creating a beautiful and functional product for sensitive skin, their carefully crafted two-piece razors ensure a smooth shave anytime, anywhere. *No blade return program offered.

Albatross. Inspired by majestic ocean-flying birds, the Albatross razor company was born from a sailor’s firsthand experience of ocean pollution, trash, and wildlife destruction. Albatross offers three razor options and a unique return program that upcycles old blades into reusable silverware!

UpCircle Beauty. UpCircle Beauty, a certified B-Corp, started when two siblings noticed the wasted potential of coffee grounds, tea leaves, and fruit stones. They began repurposing coffee grounds into skincare products and have quickly expanded into a full line of skincare including a plastic-free two-piece safety razor! A blade return program is available for UK-based residents.

Leaf Shave. Leaf Shave is revolutionizing shaving with razors that offer a superior shave, reduce single-use plastic waste, save CO2 emissions, and eliminate tons of packaging. Create a personalized shaving experience with three customizable safety razors and a blade return program for proper recycling. 

Eco Roots. Eco Roots is a female-owned brand empowering everyone to shop zero waste. Their stainless steel three-piece safety razor is crafted with precision and elegance and fits every shaving need, preference, and aesthetic while remaining 100% recyclable. *No blade return program offered.

Gillette. Gillette safety razor and blade refills, inspired by the original centuries-old design, are available at Target for a low-waste shave. Gillette currently partners with TerraCycle to provide a blade recycling program near you. 

It’s pretty obvious I’m a safety razor fan, and I hope you are too now! In the great razor debate, these 6 brands are not only a ~cut~ above the rest, but they’re also delivering superior environmental and skin benefits that only a safety razor can provide.

The post 6 Safety Razors Doing Better For The Planet & Your Skin  appeared first on Eco Club.

Still skeptical about any real changes being made? Here’s a round up of positive environmental news to prove that not everything that’s happening in the world has to be doom and gloom… as of this writing, anyway!

Positive environmental news stories 2023

We May have a Microplastics Solution

After writing a few blogs on why microplastics are so bad for us and the environment, it looks like scientists are making way on finding a solution to combat this type of pollution. Craig Arnold, vice dean of innovation at Princeton, has found a way to utilize egg whites(!) to create an aerogel that is roughly 99% effective in capturing and removing microplastics from seawater. (via Science Daily)

EPA rallies to protect Alaska aquatic ecosystem

In an unusually bold move the EPA blocked the creations of a proposed copper and gold mine in Alaska. Their reasoning was the necessary preservation of the world’s largest sockeye salmon fishery. The final verdict for this situation is still up in the air, but the EPA has made it clear they will continue to advocate for the protection of Bristol Bay’s ecosystem; where about half of the world’s sockeye salmon originate from. Positive environmental news from the EPA in this day and age? We’ll take it! (via PBS News Hour)

Finland makes Breakthrough in Vegan Solution to Meat

The Finnish government’s state-owned research institute center, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, has found a way to turn overlooked crops like fava beans and sorghum into a sustainable and scalable alternative to meat! Focused on addressing the issue of creating an appealing meat alternative, they’ve invented a technique that uses a combination of cellular agriculture and food design to take plant-based ingredients and create alternatives that mimic the texture and juiciness of real meat. (via VegNews)

St. Louis Stadium Pledges to Host a Zero-Waste Season

The CITYPARK stadium in St. Louis, MO will be eliminating single-use plastic products and replacing them with compostable utensils and reusable aluminum cups this sports season! Dedicated to creating a zero-waste stadium, they’ve partnered with multiple diverse organizations and initiatives. CITYPARK aims to donate and reduce food waste, implement renewable energy sources for power, and encourage fans to choose environmentally friendly transportation options like bikes and e-cars. (via SLC SC)

Boldy to Launch Vegan Seafood

In the wake of the success of companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Burgers, Boldy is the new kid on the block with a lofty mission: to launch a 100% vegan seafood line. Slated to start distribution this summer, their products will include plant-based salmon and tuna sashimi, calamari, shrimp, crab sticks, and white fish filets featuring konjac root. (via Vegconomist)

(And if you’re in Los Angeles and too impatient to wait for Boldy’s launch, check out Fysh Foods in WeHo!)

Looking for more positive environmental news? Check out our guide to where to find good news!

The post 5 Recent Stories with Good News For The Environment appeared first on Eco Club.

While I love to focus on specific products for our ethical fashion guides, such as sustainable fanny packs, jumpsuits, or swimsuits, I know that a lot of you are looking for a simple list of brands you can feel good about shopping in general. I’m thrilled that there are so, SO many slow fashion labels out there to create such a list. Yet, the big blogs are all still talking about the same companies rather than helping you discover new solutions for your commitment to supporting small, slow, and sustainable. Whhhyy?!

25 slow fashion labels you haven’t heard of

In this list, we feature 25 brands that we bet most of you haven’t heard of, and a little about why you should check them out. I’ve made a couple quick notes such as where they’re based (all ship to US), their styles, and sizing, but be sure to visit individual websites for more details. I hope this supports your sustainable style journey! Not sure exactly what slow fashion is? See the end of this post for our take, then scroll back up for our reccs. 

2. Tuesday offers a gorgeous selection of completely handmade and hand-dyed kimonos, dresses, scarves, and tops. They’re based in here in the Pacific Northwest and since items are one-of-a-kind, sizes vary by product.

3. Oge Ajibe is a Vancouver, BC based size-inclusive slow fashion designer (XS-6X) who makes wardrobe staples by hand using natural and deadstock fabrics in beautiful vibrant colors (and neutrals too). She recently released a one of a kind collection made from special one-off fabrics you won’t find anywhere else.

4. Based in the UK, Tipsy Flamingo Clothes makes one-off pieces from vintage household fabrics. Because they’re one of a kind, you have to check out the measurements of each and keep an eye on each drop to ensure you scoop up the best fit. You can find hats and scrunchies here too.

5. Pern and Innika Choo are behind brand Innika Choo, based in Bali and working with small factories to create their romantic and playful smocks and apparel. They’ve also created a platform where shoppers can sell their gently used Innika Choo clothing to those looking for archived designs and a good deal!

6. Vanhu Vamwe combines traditional craft + modern innovation to create their luxury macrame bags, sustainably woven in Africa by their artisan partners. 10% of total sales go directly to women for women initiatives. Materials like recycled para-cord (made from plastic bottles) create long lasting, luxury products. ⁠

7. Isabella Eve Apparel makes custom, colorful fashion for all bodies, in Grand Rapids, MI. Everything is handcrafted to order by owner Isabella using your custom measurements.

9. Half Asleep Co is the sustainable sleepwear brand behind these silky soft PJ and loungewear sets and sleep masks using 100% Tencel Modal Micro. They say, “From our plastic-free packaging to our synthetic-free products, we take our global footprint into account in every decision we make.”

10. Camas Lilly Co specializes in upcycled bridal and bridal party robes made with beautiful deadstock fabrics, helping you have a more sustainable weddings. Customize them to your wedding palette!

11. Rosa, the designer behind Cada Todo creates limited drops of the most darling wrap dresses made exclusively from (gorgeous) reclaimed textiles. Cada Todo sticks to a couple of signature style dresses to make finding your fit easier (with cute size names like ‘Foxy Lady’ which represent measurements rather than a traditional S/M/L label. Another fabulous perk of ordering from this small business is that they aren’t hemmed until you order, so you can secure the right length (short people rejoice!). Custom sizing and styles are available too!

12. Lovanie is a made-to-order slow fashion brand for petite women. Based in Seattle!

13. By KVP produces gorgeous loungewear and relaxed clothing like oversized robes and pant sets, wrap pants, and shorts from linen.

14. Gina Cusachs is a Barcelona-based sustainable fashion brand offering laidback, colorful womens clothing. They’re known for their bold, vibrant prints that adorn everything from easy dresses to bucket hats to silk scarves. I love that they offer reversible pieces, making two outfits in one!

16. Based in Portland, OR, slow fashion brand Ersa Fibers is a one-woman studio that custom makes every piece to order, upcycling scrap fabric into one-off products. (Sizes XS-5x)

17. Another ethical fashion brand out of Australia (that ships worldwide), RŪPAHAUS handcrafts womenswear, menswear, accessories, and even decor out of beautiful natural materials. They are meant to be investment pieces that become mainstays in your wardrobe. I love the soft colorways of their handwoven cotton pieces. Most pieces are currently available up to size XL.

18. Dynasty George‘s sustainable cottagecore dresses are created from natural deadstock fabrics and ethically made in India. Sizes XS-XXL and mommy and me children’s dresses offered.

19. In a world of sustainable basics, AGAATI features special occasion womenswear as well as bespoke custom tailoring.

20. Jacaranda is a Calgary-based slow fashion brand specializing in sustainable active and lounge wear using organic pima cotton.

21. Handmade both in Chicago and a GOTS certified facility in India, Valani‘s clothing is fun and flirty with the smallest footprint possible.

22. Women’s clothing store Soluna Collective offers a range of ethically made and handcrafted styles from cargo pants and utility jackets to bodysuits and lounge pants. Some sizes only go to XL while others are offered up to 3X.

23. Neems Jeans is an amazing slow fashion brand featuring custom denim made in LA for women and men. Build your own jeans by choosing the style, rise, wash, and stretch, and even where you want them to hit (ankle, below, or above ankle). Then, you’ll upload your measurements and they’ll start on your custom order! They’re $199 which is right in the range of most quality denim brands, except that these are ethically made and totally custom! (PS I haven’t tried them myself yet, I’m just really jazzed up about this concept and hope to soon!)

24. JOYTOAST is a playful, size inclusive brand (S-7X and beyond) made in Chicago by plus size creator Amy Lynn. They’re currently stocking mostly accessories, including adjustable bag straps that you can attach to any bag with removable straps, and wear in different ways.

what’s the difference between slow fashion, ethical fashion, and sustainable fashion?

Hope you like nuance. Slow fashion (or slow clothing), ethical fashion, and sustainable fashion can all be seen as alternatives to fast fashion, but they’re not all the same. It’s good to know their differences in order to avoid greenwashing while shopping. These terms aren’t regulated in any way, so it’s up to the brands themselves whether they want to label themselves any of these:

Slow fashion refers to clothing that is made in small batches. There’s no universal definition of how small these batches are made, but it’s understood that they are not mass produced. Usually these brands feature handmade clothing produced by either a small team or a single designer. It often includes custom and made-to-order fashion, which you’ll see a lot of below! Because of this, slow fashion is not always ready-to-ship and can take days or weeks for it to make it from the maker to the consumer.

Whether or not a slow fashion brand should also be considered sustainable is often up to the consumer. For example, most of the brands on this list upcycle vintage or deadstock textiles, use natural fibers, or opt for organic over conventional cotton. But does that mean if a designer uses virgin fabric or a synthetic material that they’re not sustainable? That’s up to you. Generally speaking it’s still more sustainable than a fast fashion brand, but it may not be totally up to your standards if you prefer to avoid certain materials.

Similarly ethical and sustainable fashion often includes slow made clothing, but it doesn’t necessarily have to. A sustainable and ethical fashion brand, such as Eileen Fisher, for example, may operate on a much larger scale and therefore not fall into the “slow” category.

What is sustainable fashion? Sustainable fashion is usually used to describe the materials or process, or environment. Questions to ask: What is this made of? Are the inks and dyes used harmful to people or the environment? Does the factory the clothing is made in adhere to environmental standards? What waste do they produce?

Ethical fashion defines the social aspect, most often referring to the people who made the clothing. Questions like who made this? What are their working conditions like? Are they paid fairly? are asked.

This is where I’ve seen some greenwashing come in. It’s easy to assume that because a company brands themselves as sustainable that their clothing is also ethically produced, and vice versa. Early on in my blogging journey I was often approached by ethical clothing companies that put pretty much zero consideration toward the environment in their practices. While no one is requiring that an ethical brand be transparent about their sustainability practices, I can see why consumers might assume if a company checks one box, it automatically checks both. So be sure to ask all the questions, if all of these factors are important to you!

On eco club we use sustainable and ethical fashion pretty much interchangeably — we rarely report on any brand that doesn’t check both boxes. That said, we also consider that small businesses often have to work up to certain sustainability standards (ie organic and fair trade certifications can be costly) so, it totally depends.

I hope this guide helped you! Please add any slow clothing brands you’d love to see added, in the comments! 

The post 25 Incredible Slow Fashion Brands You’ve Never Heard Of appeared first on Eco Club.

Here are some eco-friendly stocking stuffer ideas for everyone on your list (including a few from our own shop)!

where to buy sustainable stocking stuffers

column 1: tiered pom pom tassel by member tribe / lip-to-lid zero waste balmies by member axiology / lavender oversized silk scrunchie by charlie paisley / double dipped pink & lavender mug by sunflower studio pdx / sprinkles reusable dishcloths by hali hali design / high rise briefs in limited edition colors from member knickey (see our full review here)

column 2: mini rainbow notebook by moglea / moisturizing botanical bar by nopalera / bamboo charcoal makeup remover pads by clean circle / pastel pinwheel coaster set by eco club member KAZI / dark chocolate gift set by jcoco chocolate

column 3: clean lilac nail polish by BKIND / desert agave candle by TERRA (with plantable dust cover!) / duo-tone satin bow by member ks garner / seed salutations by modern sprout / heaven place mini puzzle from puzzle weekend / handmade natural scrunchies by member terrai

PS Wondering how to become a member of our sustainable directory? Membership is currently free to join, and this is a free resource we provide to our community of conscious consumers. We’re not paid to place these products in our gift guides, we only do because we love them (and the rest of the brands featured)! We review submissions every week and choose the brands that align with our ethical + sustainable shopping values and contain products we know our readers will love. Open to brands around the world, as long as they ship to USA. Click here to submit your brand!

The post 18 Sustainable Stocking Stuffers To Gift This Season appeared first on Eco Club.