I don’t know about you, but in my circles, the zero waste movement isn’t exactly known for beautiful design. Whether it’s the packaging (or cleverly, lack thereof) or products themselves, zero waste goods often look like undone versions of their more popular, plastic-using, corner-cutting counterparts. But while most zero waste gifts are less than glamorous (and yeah, that’s kind of the point), there are plenty of intelligently designed, and beautifully done, sustainable products to own and to give. Not quite sold? Find our favorite unique zero waste gift ideas below, that make your conscious living journey (and that of your design friends) a whole lot more interesting!
Top to bottom, left to right:
You’ve probably seen Pela’s zero waste iPhone cases, but they now have compostable Apple watch bands in a few cute colors!
Taste Plant’s breath mints harness the power of plant extracts not only for not only fresh breath, but good oral health too. Fun fact, they’re made locally in Tacoma, WA!
Still so intrigued by the idea of a stone deodorant, which is made with mineral salt and will actually last years. WHAT?! (I don’t need deodorant at the moment, or I would have tried it already!)
Swedish dishcloths are 100% biodegradable and compostable, and these flower printed versions from Sister Collective are the cutest.
The beauty world is full of single use products, but you can cut down on your impact with these reusable beauty swabs, which are tucked away in a biodegradable case.
Love these bottle cleaning brushes from Public–they’re made of natural fiber bristles and have wool tips!
Everist is a brand new waterless haircare company who produces shampoo concentrates in zero waste packaging. So cool!
Furoshiki wrap is one of the prettiest ways to ensure your gift packaging is not only sustainable but beautiful. These linen kitchen towel wraps from Ardent Goods are designed to act as gift wrap that can be reused by the recipient in the kitchen afterward!
These Sprout plantable pencils would make a fun gift for eco-friendly mamas or teachers! They’re customizable and when they’re all outta juice, you can plant them!
Truthbrush beautiful bamboo toothbrushes and toothpaste tablets are gorgeously designed and ship carbon neutral.
Goldrick Natural Living has many beautiful products to support your conscious living journey but their pocket soaps are especially clever.
Another amazing find from Eco Collective is their stain removal laundry stick! It’s plastic, fragrance, and palm oil free too.
Blue Heron Botanicals lip balm comes in the prettiest eco friendly, plastic-free packaging.
Axiology’s zero waste balmies come in such innovative packaging for a beauty product in an industry known for waste (and toxins). I also love that these products are multi-functional, they literally do the work of your blush, highlighter, eye shadow, and lip color!
We found Bio Scents on Instagram and have been eyeing their essential oils that come in thoughtful eco friendly packaging ever since. They’ve replaced the traditionally chunky plastic caps most essential oils come in with a super pretty wood design and colorful labels, and the only bit of plastic on them is recycled. They’re also starting a refill process!
Which zero waste goods are you most inspired by? I love when good design is applied to an essential, like low-waste household and personal care!
your two cents