Rather you’re new to sustainable living or you’ve been on your journey for a while, you’re sure to find an item on this list that speaks to you! I’ve tried out and researched each of these items for you, so I can confirm their quality. Also, at the time of writing this post, I am not receiving any affiliate income from these brands, so these reviews are unbiased. Okay, that’s enough from me, go have a look!
Features | Made of Walnuts
Good For | AirPod owners
Cost | ~$45
After splurging on my beloved AirPods Pro, I found myself searching everywhere for a sturdy case... preferably not one made of synthetic plastics. I was beyond excited to discover Oakywood! Not only is my walnut case (yup, it’s sustainably made from actual walnuts) the most durable case I’ve seen on the market, it’s also very appealing to look at! Although it's pricier than the typical case, you'll save loads of time since you won’t have to constantly clean a plastic case that shows every piece of dirt. I‘m certain this case will last me years and I’d recommend it to anyone with Airpods.
(Tip: Subscribe to Oakywood emails, add item to cart, wait a couple days, check email for discount code)
Features | Compostable material
Good For | iPhone & Android users
Cost | ~$30
Ever get sucked into clicking on one of those Instagram ads? Same. But, I’m glad I clicked on this one! This ad led me to Pela phone cases.
These cases are not only sustainable but also fully compostable. Before purchasing the case, I was worried about the durability of a Pela case in comparison to my former OtterBox. It sounds silly now, but I was also nervous that time spent outside with my case would wear away the material (I believe this concern is addressed in the QnA section of their site).
Two years later and my iPhone XR case is still smooth to the touch and protects my phone just as well as my old OtterBox. Previous to having my current iPhone, I also had a Pela case for my iPhone 6S for about a year and that’s when I fell in love with the brand.
The company has since started a closed loop send back program, called Pela Cycle. Under this program, you can send back your old Pela case so it can be recycled into materials for the manufacturing of additional Pela cases. Additionally, Pela recently launched the world's first zero-waste liquid screen protector. Whenever my current screen protector breaks, I'm absolutely going to give the Pela screen protector a try! Stay tuned for a review of it.
(Tip: If cases are not on sale, try subscribing to their email list. This way you’ll be informed when they offer their BOGO sales which they do many times a year!)
Plaine Products Face Wash
Features | All natural ingredients
Good For | Any skin type, but especially for those with sensitive skin
Cost | $5-$30
Plaine Products makes a variety of beauty products, including body lotion, face wash, facial toner, and body wash. I came across the brand while searching for a sustainable face wash for sensitive skin.
I take part in the subscription program but paused it (cool feature) because it’s taking me a while to get through my current bottle of face wash. This product only comes in a 2.5 oz bottle but it lathers nicely and I’ve found that a little bit goes a long way.
What‘s awesome about Plaine Beauty is that they have their own closed loop program. Upon getting your package, inside of your box is a paid return label so you can return your bottle when you finish it. After they receive your bottle, it gets sanitized and reused!
Features | Odor-resistant
Good For | Anyone
Cost | ~$15
In my family, we always used plastic grocery bags as trash liners. A few years ago, I realized that there are actually other options out there (I mean, you can go without a liner at all but, that’s just not my style).
Planet Wise liners are functional, odor-resistant, and washable! Plus, they come in a fun array of colors and patterns! Now, before trash day, I just dump my trash bin into our big city trash bin.
Today, in my home state of NY, businesses can no longer give out plastic shopping bags. While only seven other states have banned these bags, a number of big cities and counties have as well.
Honestly, we still use a Hefty brand garbage bag in our kitchen due to yucky stuff like dog food. Even if you only use these trash liners in a couple rooms, not only will you be saving money since you don‘t have to buy those small plastic ones from Target, but you’ll also be contributing less waste overall. Lots of small steps = big impact.
Features | Made from natural rubber
Good For | Anyone that likes wearing their hair up
Cost | ~$15
How many hair ties have you purchased, lost, broke, or thrown away in your lifetime? I know I’m embarrassed to reflect on how quickly I go through those things. Enter, Terra Ties! They are a decent alternative to the basic Scunci or Goody brands which are actually sourced from synthetic rubbers and polyester. Yuck. Terra ties are made out of natural rubbers derived from rubber trees and organic cotton, making them 100% biodegradable.
Full disclosure, I can typically use one Terra Tie about 4 times before it breaks or becomes too stretched out. However, I'm black and have thick hair, so you may have a different experience with them. Are these ties a little on the pricier side? Sure. But, they last longer and keep shape better than a basic hair tie. Also, I’ve noticed they pull out less of my hair. I don’t mind that Terra Ties inevitably pop or break. I have yet to find a reliable brand that doesn’t. It’s just nice knowing that they are biodegradable unlike my old ones.
Don't have long hair? Terra Ties also come in handy as an eco-friendly rubber band alternative.
There ya have it, my go-to eco-friendly essentials! Which products do you use daily? Tell me in the comments below, I‘m always looking for sustainable products to try out!
Sincerely,
Briesh
P.S. Stay Conscious + Curious!
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