top of page
Writer's pictureArchana

50 Eco-friendly Products That You Can Buy To Help The Planet

Updated: Aug 15



Welcome to Active by Archana!


Today, I’m excited to share a curated list of 50 eco-friendly products that you can buy to help the planet.


In 2001, when I was studying environmental management , it was difficult to talk to people about climate change because it was seen as 'not real' and 'it was fake' and 'its a conspiracy theory'.


And people generally would be really argumentative about it.


But sitting here in 2024 and looking around the economy and the world now - I am pleased to see that people are embracing sustainability in all areas of life and as we become more conscious of our environmental impact, it’s essential to find eco-friendly alternatives for everyday items.


From the kitchen to the bathroom, and personal care to travel essentials, these eco-friendly products are designed to reduce waste, conserve resources, and promote a greener lifestyle.


In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover eco-friendly products across various categories:


  1. Kitchen: Sustainable utensils, storage solutions, and gadgets to make your kitchen more eco-friendly.

  2. Bathroom: Products that help you reduce plastic waste and conserve water.

  3. Bedroom: Bedding and decor made from sustainable materials.

  4. Cleaning: Green cleaning products that are safe for you and the environment.

  5. Personal Care: Natural and biodegradable products for your daily routine.

  6. Travel: Eco-friendly travel gear for your next adventure.

  7. Laundry: Sustainable laundry solutions to keep your clothes clean without harming the planet.

  8. Food and Snacks: Eco-friendly packaging and sustainable snack options.

  9. Fashion: Products to make you feel good.

  10. Pet Products: Eco-friendly items for your furry babies.


Each product on this list has been selected for its commitment to sustainability and its potential to make a positive impact on the environment and difference in someones life.


Let’s check out some of the items and explore these fantastic eco-friendly options that can help us all live a greener, healthier life or at least take small steps to getting there.


Kitchen


1. Plant Fibre Dish Cloth





Reusable and easy to clean


This Swedish Dish Sponge Cloth - Duck Design makes a difference by:


  • Incorporating a natural fibre into the reusable cleaning cloth that conserves our resources and reduces landfill waste.

  • Using cellulose which is from FSC certified forest.

  • supporting zero waste.


Too cute - check them out at the Biome Store


2. Beeswax Food Wraps




A sustainable alternative to plastic wrap


One of my hero organisations - You can check out these wraps at Sea Shepard in support of their work.


A great alternative for items like cheese, vegetables, baked goods, fresh herbs, and bread.


Not so great for hot and warm foods and the wraps do not create a tight seal however it is a sustainable option away from plastic cling wraps


3. Bamboo Cutting Boards




Durable and made from renewable resources


Dominating the marketplace - Bamboo is a versatile and renewable crop with minimal water consumption in growing it so it has become a very sustainable option across all areas of product development.


Taking care of your Bamboo Board by oiling it regularly to prevent bacteria is important for hygiene.


Check out more tips and advice with Chef's Vision.


4. Reusable Silicone Food Bags




Great for storing food without single-use plastics


Reusable Silicone Food Bags are a non-toxic and chemical free alternative you can check out the range at The Swag.


5. Compostable Dish Sponges


Walnut Scrub Sponge, in the kitchen at the Altona North home


Biodegradable and effective for cleaning


Whilst this product travels all the way from America to Australia and is packaged with plastic for hygiene reasons, it is a more sustainable option because it has natural fibres and not dyed.


It is recommended that walnuts are not put in the compost with other vegetables though to a certain extent, these items are not biodegradable.


I get these from my local health store, For the Health of it, in Yarraville. You can also get them online.


There are other varieties too like coconut scrub sponge.


Bathroom


1. Make Up and Skincare


Credit: Archana in the bathroom with Ordinary products


Vegan and Cruelty-Free


Ordinary products aim for sustainable packaging, circular economy and I love how they don't test on animals, have a change approach to the earth and a good relationship with people.


Another brand I love is how Urban Decay place more importance over reinvention than perfection.


Check out their best-sellers.


You can also explore some of their partnerships and moments of success, the company celebrates all types of beauty.


Peta also has a select list of brands that don't test on animal products or contain them in their ingredients.


2. Shampoo Bars



Shea Moisture Restore Shampoo Bar, The Body Shop


Against Animal Testing and long-lasting


In Australia I absolutely love The Body Shop - they both have high quality natural products and work towards zero waste standards.


Anita Roddick, the founder is one of my favourite entrepreneurs along with Ben and Jerry from Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream. If you are more interested, they have their sustainability report (2022 version) available on their website.


From industry point of view, the truth is commercialised shampoo and other skincare products and their packaging are taking its toll on the water supply around the world.


3. Recycled Toilet Paper


Who gives a crap toilet paper, in laundry at the Altona North home


Made from post-consumer recycled paper


The Australian company, Who Gives a Crap? makes a difference and impact by donating 50% of profits to ensure communities have access to clean water and a toilet.


Some of their partners include Splash, WaterAid (America and Australia), Sanergy, Lwala Community Alliance, SHOFCO - Shining Hope for Communities and International Development Enterprises that help to build toilets and provide sustainable and safe solutions around the world.


Check out their mission and toilet paper here - Toilet paper that builds toilets | Who Gives A Crap Australia


4. Organic Cotton Towels




Soft and sustainably produced


Organic cotton can be grown without the use of harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, in comparison to micro fiber towels which are often made from chemicals, dye and synthetic materials.


Supporting sustainable farm practices and reducing your carbon footprint is something to aspire towards.


EcoDownUnder have a great range of luxury options with a premium price point of around $80 for a set.


5. Biodegradable Dental Floss


Dr Tungs Dental Floss, in the bathroom at the Altona North home


Made from natural materials and plastic-free packaging


The mixed materials from dental floss usually make recycling difficult.


Dr Tungs the floss is a bit thick but can be adjusted it by halving it.


I complement it with their Tongue Scrapper for extra hygiene and fresher dental routine.


Bedroom


1. Organic Cotton Sheets


Sheet Society Organic Cotton Sheets


Sustainably produced and chemical-free.


The Good Trade has a bigger list of alternatives that showcase a range that steers away from chemicals and fibers that have negative impact on your health, the environment and the manufacturing process.


Check out Sheet Society


2. Bamboo Pillowcases





Soft, hypoallergenic, and eco-friendly


Bamboo Pillows and beddings are so comfortable and really do provide balance and breathable features.


You can read a more comprehensive article at Panda London.


I've included another blog from The Good Trade you can read through.


3. Natural Latex Mattress



Peace Lily promotes sustainable sleep


Sustainable, durable, and comfortable.


Peace Lily has a beautiful selection, even the glue chosen in the manufacturing ensures a non-toxic product and experience for you.


Polyester products and bedding can contribute to bad health because it doesn't let your body regulate its temperature.


High end hotels and eco-resorts use natural fibers and gear towards 100% cotton bedding. They can afford to procure a sustainability consultant.


4. Natural Room Sprays


Credit: Perfect Potions


Climate Action And Protecting Our Planet Through Business


I really want to draw your attention to Perfect Potions they have a great selection of essential oils for healing and an amazing philosophy around their vision and sustainability goals


Aesop is another leading Australian company with a global presence and high quality products and has a strong commitment to sustainability.


5. Hemp Curtains



Credit: The Hemp Gallery


Durable and made from a renewable resource.


The Hemp Gallery - I love this company's story, their founders are passionate environmentalists and you can see their designs and development are embedded in standards for a better quality selection.


Cleaning


1. Eco-Friendly Floor Cleaner


Lavendar and Eucalyptus Floor Cleaner at the Altona North home


Non-toxic and biodegradable.


You can get this floor cleaner much cheaper online at Part & Parcel


I got this from my local health store but there are lots of different non-toxic and plant-based cleaners on the market which is a better option than ammonia and bleach based cleaners.


2. Reusable Cleaning Cloths




Reduce paper towel waste.


Cheeky Wipes has a good bundle and encourages reusable cleaning clothes instead of paper towel which go to the landfill.


'National Waste Report 2020 shows that 74 million tonnes of waste is produced yearly, with 40% going straight to landfills. Furthermore, only 13% of plastic is recovered with 84% sent to landfill and 130,000 tonnes leaking into the marine environment yearly'


3. Natural Laundry Detergent



Credit: Safely Laundry Detergent


Plant-based and biodegradable.


Safely by Kris Jenner and Emma Grede has a range of sustainable cleaning solutions.


You can check out their range and mission statement and they have a great blog section on tips and tricks on how to clean and organise your home.


For more information, the Caring Consumer has listed 12 safest products with pros and cons and has fresh perspective on their reviews because of their research efforts.


4. Organic Cleaning Starter Kits


Credit: Thankyou Starter Kit


When Thankyou first came out in Australia in 2008, the company was so incredibly cool - they social enterprise business invests in projects and programs towards safe water, hygiene, and food security initiatives around the world.


Check out their impact page and the projects they are working on.

 

5. Compostable Trash Bags



My Eco Bag, Woolworths


Made from plant-based materials.


In Australia, Woolworths sells this at around $4.70 for a 25 pack.


Packaging Warehouse has a good explanation of the difference between biodegradable and compostable.


Some facilities around the world do not accept compostable bags because it doesn't break down as fast.


Fashion and Personal Care


1. Biodegradable Cotton Swabs



Credit: Biodegradable Bamboo Sticks, Seed and Sprout


Plastic-free and compostable.


Seed and Sprout have a good selection of eco-friendly products for your home and personal care routine.


Last to Object have a great article on how cotton swabs negatively impact the environment. Some images may be familiar to you.


The use of water and waste work hand in hand together here.


2. Refillable Deodorant



Credit: Zeroco Deodorant Refill


Sustainable packaging and natural ingredients.


There's not much I can say here that you don't in the picture - vegan, cruelty free, they are grey water safe and they invest in cleans ups around the world.


Check out this beautiful eco-friendly deodorant at ZeroCo Australia as well as their mission statement with a war on waste.


Who doesn't love a company that is making a difference and saving lives!


3. Organic Lip Balm or Scrub



Credit: Lush Lip Scrub


Packaged in recyclable or compostable materials.


Lush has such amazing natural products and definitely check their space on their impact and stance on digital ethics.


They do have a number of technology platforms like Lush Lens and LushApps Lab to help customers with package free products.


4. Bamboo Hairbrush



Credit: Bamboo Hairbrush, Go for Zero


Sustainable and durable alternative to plastic.


The Power of Bamboo is everywhere!


Check out this cool store - Go for Zero


Biome has a great blog on the reasons why Bamboo Brushes are so much better - lets focus on the positives for this one.


5. Natural Sunblock



Avocado Sunscreen



Reef-safe and chemical-free.


When I was working in government, my friend and colleague, Kate would always tell me about the latest organic and health things coming onto the market, deodorant and sunscreen was one of these products.


She would say that the chemicals and toxins get absorbed into our skin and into our cells.


I chose the above from the Clean Beauty Market - Avocado Zinc.


The Good House Keeping Institute has large variety of sunscreens to choose from.


Travel


1. Reusable Water Bottle



Credit: Beysis


Stainless steel or glass to reduce single-use plastic.


Beysis has a personalised version that you can put your initials on. They have a selection of pretty colours and also customisation is a bonus.


The manufacturing of reusables is less intensive and uses less oil to produce.


Inspire Clean Energy have a great article on the many benefits of reusables.



2. Eco-Friendly Travel Cutlery Set



Credit: Ioco Gift Designers


Compact and made from sustainable materials.


Hummingbirds need a healthy ecosystem to thrive and habitat loss is one of their biggest threats to their population. Ioco Designs has a nice selection of products.


The Friendly Turtle has listed a number of benefits in their blog including things like it is better alternative than plastic cutlery, it reduces the impact on the environment and they are more stylish to name a few.


3. Reusable Shopping Bags





Foldable and durable.


I have two of these myself. I keep one in the car and the other at home for walking over to the shops.


You can find these Long Handle Tote Bags at so many places but I like this shop, Ever Eco


4. Solar-Powered Phone Charger


Sail Magazine


Renewable energy source on the go.


When I was Island hopping in Fiji I did get stuck with no battery for my phone.


One of the guys in my dorm room had this - it was abit slow but definitely it did the job to give me a couple of bars of battery.


Sail Magazine have a good Q&A on some of the best products in this category.



5. Bamboo Travel Toothbrush


Bamboo Switch


Compact and sustainable.


Bamboo Switch has a range of bamboo products, their toothbrush are a nice alternative to work towards reducing plastic.


Bamboo is a fast growing plant, is carbon neutral because it stores carbon as well.


Laundry


1. Wool Dryer Balls 


Credit: Little Brown Goose promotes a low-tox home through their Wool Dryer Balls


Reduce drying time and static without chemicals.


Little Brown Goose has wool dryer balls that can dry clothes 50% faster saving energy and a lot of time - both great things things for the environment and your personal wellbeing.


2. Reusable Dryer Sheets



Credit: Skipper Australia - Laundry Sheets


Reduce waste and soften clothes naturally.


Dryer sheets help to reduce static in the fabrics.


I really like Skipper Australia's Impact Statement and collaboration efforts with Plastic Bank.


3. Natural Stain Remover


Credit: Seed and Sprout


Non-toxic and effective.

Stain removers can cause allergies and irritation. They also have a negative impact on the environment because of the chemicals. The Stain Expert has a wider range of environment friendly methods of stain removal.


Seed and Sprout have this really nice Laundry Bar Stain Remover.


I also love their commitment to climate and environment, you can find their mission statement here.


The Spruce also have a great blog on 7 Natural Laundry Stain Removers


4. Organic Soap Nuts


Soap Nuts in the laundry at the Altona North home


I buy these every now and then from the the health store, they are a good alternative but a few came out of the bag and I was worried they might block the water pipes.


I think a good solution is that you can lock the bag a bit better with a tighter knot.


Little Bumble has a great read on soap nuts. Check out their shop and blog.



5. Biodegradable Laundry Bags



Biodegradable Laundry Bags


Protect delicate items and reduce microplastic release.


Biodegradable laundry bags help reduce waste and pollution.


Different fabrics and brands can use things like cornstarch, bamboo or cotton.


I like this 'Guppyfriend Washing Bag' with Biome


Food and Snacks


1. Organic Fruit and Veggie Bags





Reusable and breathable.


The Little Eco Shop has wide of range of organic fruit and vegetable packaging that is sustainable.


The family owned business is geared towards sustainable ventures.



2. Compostable Snack Bags





Made from plant-based materials.


Biogone has resealable sandwich bags that break down 90% faster than other products.


Biogone also has a newsletter service that you can subscribe to.


You can read about their impact on the environment here.



3. Reusable Produce Bags



Seed & Sprout


Reduce single-use plastic in grocery shopping.


Another one from Seed & Sprout, they have smaller mesh bags for fruit and vegetables to provide a chemical free and eco-friendly option to plastics.


4. Water


Credit: Liquid Death, Mountain Water


Healthy and Recyclable


I want to highlight Liquid Death - Murder Your Thirst


They are a creative water company with a mission to make people laugh and encourage drinking water to hydrate well and also help to kill plastic pollution.


They sell both Mountain Water and Sparkling Water which is a better option than energy and soda drinks.


The packaging is different to other companies because they use aluminium cans instead of plastic bottles.


Unfortunately, the environmental impact of bottled water is 3,500 times that of tap-water.


They have some quirky and funny videos at Timewasters 5000 which I think you might enjoy.


5. Vego Whole Hazelnut Chocolate Bar


Vego whole hazelnut chocolate bar at home in Altona North


Vegan and Gluten Free


This is my go-to chocolate and one of my favourites, its a popular choice because its very rich and creamy with whole hazelnuts and has a sort of praline taste.


Certified Organic

  • Gluten Free

  • Dairy Free

  • Vegetarian

  • Vegan Friendly

  • Fair Trade


Fashion


1. Organic Cotton T-Shirts



Credit: Selfawear Be Kind T-shirt


Soft, breathable and eco-friendly


Selfawear has a great selection of really cool items and their mission statement is all about being positive and having an optimistic attitude.


2. Recycled Polyester Jackets



Credit: Country Road


Made from bamboo or recycled materials.


I absolutely love Country Road's Climate Fund, the fashion company is committed to building a positive future by supporting grassroots projects.


Oliver Co has a more detailed blog about the benefits of recycled polyester.


3. Bamboo Fiber Socks



The Bamboo Fabric Store


Reusable and reduce waste.


The Bamboo Fabric Store strives towards an ethical business by supporting sustainable fashion. Their mission is to provide high quality luxury blends and knits of bamboo


4. Hemp Jeans



Credit: Afends Hemp Denim


Durable and long-lasting.


Afends recognises the benefits of strong hemp fibre which is known as a durable natural thread.


You can check out their range on their website.


5. Vegan Leather Bags



Credit: Sans Beast


Promotes sustainable practices and reduces environmental impact


Sans Beast is an Australian company that features products that are vegan.


The founder has been in the fashion industry for over 30 years and wanted to make products that took more of an ethical stance.


Pet Products


1. Biodegradable Poop Bags


Pawllywood Vegetable Based Poop Bag, Williamstown - 'A Green World for Paws and Hands'


Made from plant-based materials.


Pawllywood Vegetable Based Poop Bags - Shein sells them for 10 rolls for $14.95 with 4 colours to choose from.



2. Sustainable Pet Toys



Credit: From The Sustainable Jungle


Made from recycled or natural materials.


Dogs eat their toys and the Sustainable Jungle has a list of great companies that you can buy from that are non-toxic, chemical free and eco-friendly.


They discourage cheap, plastic toys that go to landfills.


3. Eco-Friendly Pet Shampoo



Organic Shampoo for Dogs by Goods that Give


Non-toxic and biodegradable.


Goods that Give have a section on sustainable and organic products.


Shampoo and Conditioner that is organic and eco-friendly are better for you pets body and better for the waterways.



4. Recycled Pet Beds


Banish Plush Recycled Pet Beds


Made from recycled materials.


Banish has created plush beds with an outer organic cotton canvas, its cruelty free and supports a green living lifestyle.


5. Natural Pet Treats



Farmer Pete Beef and Chicken Treats


Healthy and sustainably sourced ingredients.


Farmer Petes have a no preservative selection of treats which are better for your furry friend's digestive system.


I hope you've enjoyed checking out these products as they are a great option to help you live a more eco-friendly lifestyle while reducing your environmental footprint.


Archana xx




2 views

Comments


bottom of page