Are You Removing Your Makeup Sustainably? Check out my Top 3 Sustainable Wipes Read More »
The post Are You Removing Your Makeup Sustainably? Check out my Top 3 Sustainable Wipes appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>Did you know that the average makeup user goes through 730 wipes per year? These wipes will then take over 100 years to break down! Not to mention that the actual remover that can be irritating, oily, and who even knows what chemicals are used? Plus, why pay for 730 makeup wipes when you could pay for five that will last for the year and beyond?
Norwex Facial Pads (5) and Makeup Removal Cloth Set (3)
Sustainable: Yes! Norwex makes a lot of its microfiber with 70% recycled fibers and repurposed plastic water bottles. They are extremely durable, so they will not need to be replaced for a long time. When your well-used Norwex Microfiber product reaches the end of its life, you don’t need to throw it out. Instead, give it a fitting end with their Microfiber Recycling Program, which partners with a company to convert waste into renewable energy!
Non Toxic: Norwex’s numerous products are all non-toxic and they’ll stay that way, because unlike most removers, Norwex only needs water to work.
Location: Norwex was founded in Norway but they have locations in 14 countries, including the US.
Special Qualities: Norwex is unique because all of their products have a special microfiber configuration that cleans with just water. So, no more oily, chemical-laden makeup remover! These pads specifically are double-sided, so they can be held like cotton balls- one side is great for removing makeup, the other great for cleaning your skin. They also have BacLock which means microsilver is woven into the pads and cloths inhibiting the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew! The zipper pouch keeps Facial Pads together in the laundry and is also great for storing. The Cloths are larger and come in a set of three.
Affordability: $ – These five double makeup wipes and cloths are made to last, which means that you will save A LOT of money since you no longer need to buy cotton balls or single-use makeup wipes. Click here to order.
Greenzla Reusable Makeup Remover Pads (20)
Sustainable: Yes! These zero-waste wipes are made of Bamboo and organic cotton which makes for a quality makeup wipe that is also biodegradable and compostable after a time. So, when your wipe has reached its end – after several years – it will break down naturally, leaving behind no micro plastics.
Non-Toxic: Yes! These wipes are all certified organic and non-toxic.
Location: United States – Maryland
Special Qualities: They’re compact and come with a cotton drawstring laundry bag, so they are easy to clean and transport! They are also good for all skin types.
Affordability: $ Greenzla wipes are available HERE– $12.99 for a pack of 20.
*As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Face Halo X (3)
Sustainable: Face Halo promises their wipes are good for at least 200 wash cycles, making them very long-lasting. But when the wipe has had its use, Face Halo has an easy process to recycle the wipes. All you have to do is mail the used wipes to one of their designated locations.
Non-Toxic: Yep! As opposed to a harsh makeup remover, all the the wipes require is water, although for stubborn makeup you can also use oils.
Location: Founded in Perth, Australia – although it has locations and shipping in the US, UK, Canada, Hong Kong, New Zealand, and Korea.
Special Qualities: Free shipping in the US and UK! They can handle a washing machine, but they recommend only machine-washing once or twice a week so the wipes last longer.
Affordability: $22-$30 for three wipes. Let’s say that you use only 500 as opposed to the average 730 makeup wipes a year, that’s roughly $120 per year, as opposed to just $22 with Face Halo.
Remember, using sustainable products is an investment in yourself and the environment!
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]]>The post Protect Your Eyes and Earth with these Sustainable Sunglasses appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>As summer continues on, this is the time where sunglasses begin to break, get scratched, get lost, or God-forbid, fall into the ocean never to be seen again. Yes, this once happened to me. When you go to buy another pair of sunglasses, you now have an opportunity to shop sustainable sunglasses that are designed to last and made to help protect the environment and oceans. There are a TON of brands out there that you may be able to find by yourself, but I decided to do a little research for you of a couple of my favorite brands. I cannot claim to have tried every company, because I DO NOT have that kind of money rolling around. However, between myself and my friends, we have used a few of these brands and lived to tell the tale. So, without further ado, let’s talk sunglasses.
Pricing: $ = $0-50, $$ = $50-100, $$$ = $100-200, $$$$ = $200+
Proof Eyewear $-$$
Sustainable: All Proof sunglasses are made out of FSC certified wood (meaning that the wood is harvested and replaced sustainably), repurposed skateboard parts, and a cotton acetate (this is a “natural” plastic-like material that is eventually biodegradable).
Giving Back: Depending on which material the sunglasses are made of, Proof donates to education initiatives, eye clinics, conservation efforts, breast cancer research, or other global organizations.
Polarized: Definitely!
Location: Proof was started out of a garage in Boise, Idaho, USA by three brothers.
Special Qualities: All of Proof’s products have an image of a bird inscribed on the side as well as an inspiring quote. As I mentioned, Proof gives back to communities, so, $10 from every sunglasses is donated! Click HERE to check out their site & receive a $20 off coupon.
Solo Eyewear $-$$
Sustainable: Each pair of sunglasses is constructed using repurposed bamboo, recycled plastic, or cellulose acetate, which reduces their carbon footprint and prevents hundreds of pounds of virgin materials from being produced each year. Packing materials and defective sunglasses are also actively recycled.
Giving Back: SOLO Eyewear donates 10% of profits, which has allowed them to restore vision for 13,000+ people in need by funding eye exams, eyeglasses and cataract surgeries.
Polarized: Yep!
Location: Based in San Diego, CA., USA. All manufacturers are carefully audited by SOLO. Their cases are handmade by a group of Guatemalan women.
Special Qualities: Each design is named after a country, signifying where SOLO will donate money to restore vision to those in need. They also have a line of blue light glasses, to protect your eyes against screens. Do you spend a lot of time looking at the computer? Try the blue light glasses.
Swell $-$$
Sustainable: Swell uses sustainable bamboo that grows faster than it’s harvested – an alternative to carbon based products. All sunglasses are handcrafted using eco-friendly products.
Giving Back: Swell reinvests their profits into education via the Green School in Bali – an international, non-profit school devoted to raising creative and innovative leaders in the green movement.
Polarized: Yes
Location: North Carolina, USA
Special Qualities: The majority of their sunglasses can float! A nice option for those who wear sunglasses in the ocean!
Shwood Eyewear $-$$$
Sustainable: Yep! All of their sunglass frames are made from acetate cellulose sourced from Italy, sustainably produced lumber, repurposed furniture, stones, seashells, resin, and other carefully sourced materials.
Giving Back: They have no listed partners or initiatives.
Polarized: Yes
Location: Portland, Oregon, USA – but they also sell internationally
Special Qualities: They have a camping collection (cheaper), an Active Sports collection, and a variety of limited edition collections.
Costa $-$$$$
Sustainable: All of their sunglasses are made of bio-based resin, polycarbonate, or lightwave glass. Depending on which of their three collections you purchase, they support a different sustainable organization.
Giving Back: Costa donates to a variety of organizations, including OCEARCh (pronounced O-search) which helps scientists track sharks, Coastal Conservation Association and Surfrider Foundation (both help keep plastic out of the ocean). Finally they take fish nets out of the oceans and turn them into sunglasses. They also donate a percentage of profits from their clothing sales to #ONECOAST which helps coastal families recover from natural disasters.
Polarized: Yes!
Location: Daytona Beach Florida, USA
Special Qualities: Costa has sunglasses specifically designed for sports performance or just relaxing in the sun. They also have “580 degree” lenses which enhance colors rather than diminishing them. They also provide more protection for your eyes, and lower risks associated with sun exposure.
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]]>The post Diapers appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>As I’m sure many parents know, babies go through A LOT of diapers. Diapers not only produce a lot of waste, but they are also often laden with preservatives, scents, and numerous chemicals that can be harmful to your baby’s health. Luckily, I have found a few great companies that find new ways to manage and address sustainability and toxicity issues in their diapers and other baby products.
Before I provide my various ratings and recommendations for diapers, it is important to understand what these descriptions actually mean, and what ingredients you should watch out for in your child’s diapers.
Like many of the other products I have discussed on this website, there are very few restrictions on what companies can use to make diapers. Diaper companies “self-test” and “self-regulate”, meaning they report all of the ingredients used in their diapers, but no organization is confirming their claims. So, companies essentially have free rein when it comes to what they share with consumers. Even companies who do share all of their ingredients probably have at least a few unlisted ingredients if the word “fragrance” is on their label. To get an in-depth understanding of this issue, click HERE for an explanation as to how the FDA regulates chemicals in products and what chemicals to look out for.
Main Components of Diapers:
1. Inner layer- This is what rests against your baby’s skin so, this is the layer that needs to be free of toxins. All diaper manufacturers should disclose the ingredients of this inner layer.
2. Absorbent Core: The layer that absorbs fluid.
3. Waterproof outer shell: Environmentally friendly diaper companies use a plant-based plastic known as polylactic acid (PLA)
The most trusted manufacturers are those who fully disclose all ingredients. Many companies will tell you what’s not in their diapers, but will fail to tell you everything that is in the diapers. Pampers and Huggies are big diaper companies who fail to disclose all of their materials.
SAP- Super Absorbent Polymer: These are the crystals in the absorbent core of the diaper that absorbs fluid. The issue with SAP is that it hasn’t been around long enough to determine if it’s 100% safe. SAP is derived from petroleum. It is believed to be nontoxic, however, if ingested, it could kill a baby.
Why Chlorine Free is Important: Chlorine is used to bleach diapers. But during this bleaching process, toxic chemicals called dioxins can be released. Dioxins can cause reproductive issues, damage to the immune system, hormone disruption and cancer. It is hard to find a diaper with no dioxins so, a trace amount is the best we can usually find. According to the EPA, dioxide is the most toxic of all cancer-linked chemicals. It is banned in most countries, but not the United States. Learn more about this lack of chemical regulation HERE.
Dye free (pigment free, colorant free) is always better when it comes to diapers. Dyes can cause skin rashes and allergic reactions. Some natural diaper companies use dye that doesn’t contain heavy metals. These are thought to be safe, but as always use caution and diligence when you find a brand that claims to be “eco-friendly”, “non-toxic” or safe, because there are so few regulations.
Watch out for
TBT & Other Heavy Metals: TBT can be absorbed into the skin and act as a hormone disruptor. This means that these chemicals can disrupt the hormones that should be in your child’s systems and change the way your child’s organ systems function. This could lead to small issues or have major health implications. But it is DEFINITELY not worth the risk.
Pthalates: These can be used in diapers to make a flexible, waterproof plastic liner. They can be released into the air and can also mix into liquid.
Want more information? The issue of non-toxic and sustainable diapers is a very complex one, which is why I have attached a link to a more in-depth articles at the bottom of this page. However, I believe that the following brands I have researched and reviewed are great alternatives to Pampers and other mainstream diaper brands that aren’t the safest for your little ones.
Before I can discuss the three sustainable and safe diaper brands below, I have to discuss the MOST sustainable option first: Reusable Diapers.
I know, the idea of taking a gross diaper and using it again sounds extreme, unpleasant, and a complete pain to manage. BUT, there are actually a lot of benefits that are worth AT LEAST considering, before you shake your head and read on.
Cloth diapers and various reusable diaper types are MUCH more affordable than disposable diapers. The average toddler will go through around 7,000 diapers before they are potty trained. 7,000!! Pampers diapers cost roughly $30 per 100 diapers. This means that it will cost around $2,000 to diaper one of your kids. With cloth diapers, which last an average of 6 YEARS, you can buy anywhere from 5-20 for significantly less, and use them for your first child and future children. This means that you could save $6,000 by using cloth diapers. Not to mention the good you are doing for your children’s health AND the environment. In some areas, such as NYC, there are even companies that will launder have a pick up and delivery subscription, where you can give them your soiled diapers in exchange for new ones, so that you don’t have to deal with cleaning.
Now, I realize I am driving a hard bargain, parenting is challenging, and adding something else to laundry basket isn’t exactly appealing. But I encourage you to check out these sustainable cloth brands for a few minutes and seriously consider the potential benefits. Cloth diapers are better than they were 30+ years ago. They’ve come a long way!
Cloth Diaper Options
Bambino Mio – overall best quality and value – $
Alva Baby – great swim diapers – $
Lil Joey All in One Diapers – Good for preemies $
Still not convinced? Check out these companies for disposable diaper options that you can still feel good about.
This section contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Hello Bello
Hello Bello is made without lotion, fragrance, phthalates, and latex, 100% chlorine free, and the absorbent liner is plant-derived.
Sustainable: 
Standards: Hello Bello prioritizes renewable materials and sources, which often means using plant-based materials rather than petroleum or chemical-based. They use organic ingredients and non-toxic chemicals – which are listed with all of their products. They acknowledge how under-regulated basic products are, and stand by their company standards as a means to ensure safety for all of their customers.
Special Qualities: They have over 20 adorable designs that you can choose for diapers. They offer day and night diapers to make them easier to use. Finally, they use a bundling method, so you can get the diaper products you want, AND get free products.
Non-Toxic:
Affordability: $– They are partnered with Walmart, so their products are easily accessible, and they don’t have high prices that often come with smaller companies. You get roughly 112 diapers for $29 – cheaper if you subscribe. Pampers diapers are $25 for only 84 diapers, so with Hello Bello, you’re getting more for less! Out of all the diapers I’ve researched, this is the only brand that’s less expensive than competing mainstream brands.
Effective (Absorbent + Wetness-Indicator):
Chlorine-Free:
Cute: They have over 20 adorable designs on the diapers.
Other Products Include: Kid-friendly shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and body wash, vitamins, and other personal care baby products, like oil, wipes, hair-detangler, diaper wash cream, and more!
Click HERE for $15 off your first bundle of diapers and wipes.
Eco by Naty
Sustainable: They are a European-based company, so there is a greater shipping footprint, but unlike Hello Bello, their founding principles are centered around sustainability. This means that sustainability is not a goal for Naty, it is the forefront fo their company.
Standards: Hypoallergenic, 100% plastic-free, biodegradable, and fragrance-free.
Non-Toxic:
Special Qualities: They also sell a “plant-based potty”. It sounds a little out there, but it is a functional toddler toilet that is the most sustainable option available!
Affordability: $
Effective (Absorbent + Wetness Indicator): 
– they are very high quality diapers that have been praised for their performance, but they DO NOT have a wetness indicator.
Chlorine-Free:
Cute: – has designs, but they’re simple
Other Products Include: Baby skincare, diaper pants, diaper bags, baby wipes, potty training, and more.
Honest
Sustainable: Honest is not perfect, but is still worth mentioning. Honest works to use recyclable materials wherever possible, minimize pollution and shipping footprints, and ban certain materials in their packaging that are either damaging to human or environmental health. Their diapers are made of plant-based materials and ethically sourced ingredients.
Non-Toxic: They don’t use the word “fragrance” on their labels, so all the labels truly show every ingredient being used.
Standards: They hold themselves accountable with a strict “NO” list, which means that they refuse to use chemicals on said list. This last is provided on their website and bans over 2,500 chemicals They also work very hard to ensure that the goods are manufactured safely and responsibly,
Effective (Absorbent + Wetness Indicator): – They pride themselves on creating high performance diapers while still holding true to their standards, but DO NOT have a wetness indicator.
Affordability: $
Chlorine-Free:
Cute: – like Hello Bello, Honest offers a large variety of designs, although Hello Bello designs are still my number one!
Other Products Include: Beauty products, Bath products, home goods, and even clothing
Want some extra diaper info?
Check out: https://www.babygearlab.com/expert-advice/what-is-inside-those-disposable-diapers
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]]>Reusable Grocery Bags Read More »
The post Reusable Grocery Bags appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>When you use single-use plastic bags for your groceries, you’re literally using the bag for a trip from the store and, wherever it ends up, it will never decompose in your lifetime. I can’t say enough how much it would help the environment to stop using plastic bags!
I believe that eventually, single use plastic grocery and shopping bags are going to be obsolete. Many vendors are charging money for bags, so now is the time to just bring your own!
Finding a company with sustainable goals as well as a good product was not as easy as I thought it would be. My research landed me on Envirosax. Envirosax has been around even before reusable bags were a “thing”. The bags are adorable with great prints and they use eco-friendly dyes. Envirosax is transparent about their factories and conduct audits to make sure their workers are being paid fairly.
The best deal on their website is the pouch. The pouch itself can be used for many things- makeup, pencil case, etc., but the main purpose is to hold 5 individual, rolled up bags. Each bag can hold up to 44 pounds! It rolls up into a 2 inch little packet, so you can store it anywhere. These bags can be used for anything- groceries, beach bag, make up, every day tote, etc. They can easily be thrown in a suitcase and used when traveling. They even have bags for kids. I highly recommend this versatile bag. The designs are so appealing, they even make a great gift!
Cost: 1 bag is $10.99. The pouch + 5 bags is $49.99. This is the best option- a cute pouch that snaps shut and looks like a wristlet plus the bags. Click HERE to check out their website.
This post contains affiliate links. Envirosax will compensate me for sales when providing an honest review.
Let me know what designs you like best!
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]]>The post Are you Ready for the Sun? My Safest Sunscreen Recommendations appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>Did you know your skin is the largest organ in your body? It needs to be taken care of and protected daily. It’s a lot to protect and I am going to give you my top picks when it comes to sunscreen. Before delving into my environmental picks for safe sunscreen, I want to give you an overview of what sunscreen actually does and what all the numbers mean.
Wait? Isn’t all sunscreen safe??? I’ll get to that in a minute.
1. What’s the point of daily sunscreen and who needs to use it? Sunscreen decreases your risk of skin cancer and precancerous spots. Daily use of 15 SPF or higher, lowers your risk of melanoma by 40%. It also prevents early signs of aging- Wrinkles! Saggy skin! Age Spots!
2. Who needs to use it? Only fair-skinned people?? Nope… everyone. Even if you don’t burn easily, the sun still damages your skin over time. It is, however, recommended that babies under the age of 6 months not use sunscreen. Try shade and protective clothing and a bucket hat instead. Every outdoor picture from when I was a baby had me in a bucket hat!
3. What are the different types of sunscreen?
Physical/Mineral: These sunscreens contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These minerals physically block the sun from absorbing into your skin. Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide rest on your skin and act as UV filters rather than chemicals.
Chemical: These sunscreens absorb the sun’s rays before they can cause skin damage.
4. What is sunscreen protecting me from? UVB & UVA rays, so it’s important to use a sunscreen with broad spectrum protection from both types of rays.
UVB: These are the rays that cause a sunburn and lead to skin cancer.
UVA: These rays lead to premature aging and tanning, however, they can also cause a sunburn.
5. What does SPF mean and what number do I need to use? The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) tells you how long it will protect your skin from burning versus wearing no sunscreen at all. For example, an SPF of 15 will protect your skin 15 times longer than wearing no sunscreen. Studies have been done over the years to analyze the SPF. An SPF of 15 is determined to be good for daily use meaning, just going in and out of your car, to the grocery store etc. If you’re going to be in the sun for a longer period of time, you will want to look at a higher SPF and should obviously consider how easily you burn. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using at least SPF 30 if you plan to spend prolonged time in the sun.
BUT…even if you use a higher SPF, you still need to reapply every 2 hours and every time you get out of the pool or ocean. You should also apply sunscreen 30 minutes before actually going outside.
6. What does water resistant mean? Is there waterproof sunscreen?
There is no waterproof sunscreen. Many are water resistant. Water resistant lasts about 40 minutes in the water whereas “very water resistant” lasts about 80 minutes. Either way, when you exit the water, dry off and reapply.
7. How much sunscreen should I apply? One ounce is recommended for your entire body. (Size of a shot glass.)
8. Is all sunscreen safe?? That’s getting to the heart of my research. In the past few years, sunscreen has had increased coverage on the news regarding the safety of sunscreen. There are ingredients in many sunscreens that can cause hormone disruptions in your body, allergic reactions and even can lead to cancer. As referenced in my “toxic ingredients” article, oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3) is the greatest offender. To avoid using oxybenzone, some companies use avobenzone, but this less popular chemical is also linked to cancer. Zinc IS a good sunblock that is commonly used. However, even with zinc you should look into the brand, because some forms of zinc can harm coral reefs and marine life if it is nanotized (this is important later ). Companies “nanotize” zinc or other chemicals to make it clear rather than white, so that it rubs in more nicely.
So, you do not want a sunscreen that contains the following: Oxybenzone (also known as benzophenone-3) Oxtinoxate (also known as octyl methoxycinnate) Avobenzone (also known as benzophenone) Octoclyrene, Octisalate or Homosalate. I also look for non-nano sunscreens because as a rule it is safer for the ocean reefs, animals, and humans.
9. What makes a sunscreen reef-safe? Oxybenzone and Octinoxate have been linked to coral bleaching. These chemicals are harmful to the sea and to humans, so they are definitely NOT ‘reef-safe”. The actual mineral particles in a sunscreen must also be considered for reef-safety. Some sunscreens “nanotize” minerals, which means they reduce the size of the mineral particles. This allows the particles to dissolve in the ocean, which is harmful to the reefs and fish. It is not yet clear the effect on the human body, however, it is known that nanotized minerals or chemicals can be absorbed easily into the human body. Non-nano sunscreens don’t reduce the mineral size to below 100 nanometers. This means that when mixed in the ocean water, these mineral particles sink to the bottom and become part of the ocean sediment. This still could pose a minor threat to the ocean, but it is still unmeasurably better than nanotized particles – it’s a win for us and a win for the ocean! There are no specific government regulations or standards for the term “reef-safe”, so it’s important to delve a little deeper into the ingredients.
For more info on harmful chemicals with much more detail, please refer to my toxins page.
8 Brands with my Seal of Approval
Besides just finding sunscreen with nontoxic ingredients, it is challenging to find companies whose sustainable, eco-friendly packaging aligns with my mission. However, I have managed to find 8 sunscreen brands so far that are nontoxic, and are also shipping sustainably, packaged somewhat sustainably, and are working to protect the ocean reefs and marine life. Unfortunately, until these types of brands become the norm and more mainstream, they tend to be more expensive than drugstore brands. But I would not recommend these brands unless I firmly believed that the benefits of switching to these brands far outweigh the costs. It is also essential to understand that you generally need to use a much smaller amount at a time compared to other brands, because sunscreens are made with natural ingredients.
So without further ado, here are my top picks:
This page contains affiliate links.
1. Stream2Sea: “The chemist, the environmentalist, and the explorer came together to create an eco-conscious skin care line that is healthy for our bodies AND for the waters of our planet.” The founder of this company was concerned about the health of her body as well as sea life and reefs, so she created this amazing brand; Stream2Sea is reef safe and safe for your health.
Sustainability: Eco-conscious, reef-safe, biodegradable packaging and ingredients, plastic-free, and sugarcane resin tubes.
Health Benefits: Nontoxic ingredients, Broad Spectrum protection, water resistant for 80 minutes of swimming, non-greasy, and non-nano.
Review: This is a great physical sunscreen. Like a lot of nontoxic, natural products, a little bit goes a very long way. The website has a demonstration video of how to apply. You should start with a pea size amount on your hands, run them together a bit and then dab it on. If you use too much, your skin will be VERY white from the zinc. You do not need to put this on the way you’re used to applying mainstream sunscreen. I like the tinted option because it blends in a little better. I am super fair-skinned and am very careful with how I apply and how often. I have not gotten a sunburn using this sunscreen because it is very protective. I also like that it’s non-nano, so it truly is reef-safe.
Bottles: travel size, 8 oz. or 32 oz.
SPF: 20 or 30 – as someone who is very pale, this seems a little low, but I have found that my skin doesn’t burn using the 30 – I used SPF 50 before trying this brand.
Cost: $6.99-$129. It costs more for tinted. I know there is a bit of “sticker shock” here. The 32 oz. bottle is pricey, however, it will last very a long time. The shelf life for mineral sunscreens is 1-3 years especially if typically stored in a cool, dry place.
This is my top choice. Use my promo code, ECOEMMA for 10% off. Click here to be directed to the Stream2Sea site.
Click below for Amazon links:
Stream2Sea SPF 30, Clear 3 oz.,
Stream2Sea SPF 30, Tinted 3 oz.
Stream2Sea SPF 30, Tinted 32 oz.
2. COOLA: This quality sunscreen company uses 70% organic ingredients and they are reef-friendly. A reef-friendly brand is usually one that is oxybenzone free and non-nano. They also acquire the majority of their ingredients from organic, sustainable farms and provide and in-depth list of their ingredients. 
Sustainability: Coola leaders work to be eco-conscious, but they still produce some waste and don’t solely use organic ingredients. However, they ARE reef-safe, which is very important to protect our oceans. They also use sugarcane resin tubes which can be recycled as well as post-consumer recyclable material. This is a great, recyclable alternative to plastic.
Health Benefits: Coola sunscreen is anti-oxidant enriched which makes your skin feel soft and smooth and also protects against aging! Coola is also transparent about their plant derived fragrances, so you can feel confident that the ingredients label truly lists ALL the ingredients.
Review: They have a lot of choices: lotion, fragrance free to sprays, and after sun treatments. They even have tinted SPF lip balm! Check out their Mineral Liplux Summer Crush. I like the scents and the sunscreen goes on very nicely. I am big fan of the mineral, tinted face sunscreen. I also really like their SPF 50 Organic Mineral Sunscreen. It’s moisturizing, smooth, and worked well on my pale skin, which is the true test! Coola’s “classic” sunscreens are chemical sunscreens, but I only recommend mineral ones. You can refer to my oxybenzone article when trying to decide between mineral and chemical sunscreen.
Bottles: 3.4 oz.tube, 5 oz tube., 8 oz. spray – I like the 5 oz. tube. It will last a reasonable amount of time.
SPF: 30 and 50
Price: $25-$52
Click below to Amazon links:
COOLA body SPF 30, 5 oz., COOLA body SPF 50, 5 oz., COOLA Face, SPF 30, 1.7 fl.oz.
3. Babo Botanicals: When the founder had her first baby, she had been working for mainstream skincare lines, but quickly realized that she wanted products that were all natural, and nontoxic for her child. What started as a product line for babies and children has grown into a great product for adults as well. The focus of these products is to be allergen-free without dairy, gluten, high-allergy nut oils & soy as well as my typical list of nontoxic ingredients.
Review: They have a clear zinc sunscreen that is non-nano, which means it rubs in well and doesn’t harm the reefs. They also have sport sticks and spray. I like that it goes on clear and is safe on babies. I do not usually recommend sprays unless you’re very careful. They can be inhaled, which is unsafe with just about any sunscreen product, even if it is a mineral-based sunscreen. I also don’t think they protect as well based on my personal experience with my very pale skin. This is usually because of the application. If anything, I start with lotion and then reapply with spray. You need to rub in the spray. These are not cheap! The tubes are small but a little bit goes a long way especially if you’re mainly using these on babies or children who have less surface area than an adult. * I also recommend their other skincare and hair products which are EWG (Environmental Working Group) certified- nontoxic, transparent information, and good manufacturing practices.
Bottles: 1.7 oz., 3 oz., 6 oz. spray 2- pack
SPF: 30 and 50
Cost: $12.99- $40
Click HERE for direct links to Babo Botanicals- for 15%-30% off- explore their mineral sunscreen and more!
Click below for Amazon links
Babo Clear Zinc SPF 30, 3 oz. Summer Scent
4. Raw Elements: This sunscreen was developed by a lifeguard who didn’t want to keep using chemical sunscreen. He needed strong protection, but was also focused on his health and the health of the environment. His mission is to provide a nontoxic sunscreen in sustainable packaging.
Review: I love the mission of this company as one of their goals is to eliminate plastic waste! Many of their sunscreens come in an aluminum tin which can be reused or recycled. Additionally, their pumps are also in aluminum and are 75% plastic free. Their non-nano zinc oxide formula is reef-safe. The sunscreen is water resistant and provides great protection. It is creamy and moisturizing. Like many others in its class, a little bit goes a long way and it does take extra effort to rub in. I prefer the tinted options because they don’t leave a white look on your skin.
Packaging: 3 0z. tins, 2.75 oz. pump, face stick
SPF: 30
Price: $16-$19
This is my top choice for sustainable practices!
Click below for Amazon links:
Raw Elements Face & Body Tin SPF 30
Raw Elements Baby/Kid Tin SPF 30
Raw Elements Tinted Face Tin SPF 30
Raw Elements Pump Face Tinted SPF 30
Raw Elements Face Stick SPF 30
Raw Elements Tinted Face Stick SPF 30
5. Bare Republic: This company is based out of California, USA. Their mission in starting their company was to make non-toxic, environmentally safe products that were more affordable and they’ve done just that. They also want to make their product very accessible. I was able to pick up a tube in Wal-Mart.
Review: I have tried the lotion and the spray- even though I’m not a fan of sprays. This one, however, sprays on white and you are then forced to rub it in. The good part here is that you can see where it is applied and you don’t miss spots, which is often my complaint with sprays. Always spray in a well ventilated area, preferably outside. I think it works very well. They also make an effort to use sustainable packaging and their products are non-nano, reef-friendly. *They have options that shimmer! If you want to be fancy, and sparkly, give them a try. Their shimmer options have the ingredient mica, a natural mineral, mixed in.
Bottles: 1.7 oz., 3.4 oz., 12.oz.
SPF: 30 & 50
Cost: $9.99-$18.99
Click below for Amazon links:
Bare Republic Sport SPF 50, 5 oz.
Bare Republic Face Stick SPF 50
6. Suntegrity: The founder of this company lost her mother to melanoma. She went on a mission to promote the use of sunscreen and found way too many with toxic chemicals. Her thought was, why are we using sunscreen that might give us another form of cancer just to prevent skin cancer? Her sunscreen, therefore, doesn’t contain toxins and is reef-safe. (Non-nano, zinc oxide is the main ingredient.)
Review: I like this sunscreen because it’s not just for sun protection, but for skin repair. It’s full of anti-oxidants and amino acids to promote the restoration of your skin. It’s moisturizing as well with shea butter and jojoba oil. It’s water resistant and biodegradable. It has non-tinted and tinted options. The Sport option is super thick and takes some work to rub in to eliminate a white tint! The Body sunscreen rubs in much more easily. I much prefer the Body sunscreen to the Sport. I’m a fan of this one for the protective coverage. The tinted is a safer choice if you want it to disappear when you apply it.
Bottles: Tubes and sticks 3 oz. or 5 oz.
SPF: 30
Cost: $24- $36
Click below for links to Amazon
Suntegrity Sports Stick SPF 30
7. Badger: Badger is a family run business out of New Hampshire (USA). Their natural, organic sunscreens have gained national recognition. Zinc Oxide is their main ingredient and their non-nano formula is reef-safe. Their goal was to create a safe, non-chemical sunscreen. 
Review: These sunscreens provide fabulous protection. The water-resistant ones go on a bit thick. It takes a little time to determine how much you need to put on. I try dabbing pea size amounts along my skin and then rubbing in. Because this is a popular brand, they are selling for a bit less than some of my other sunscreen recommendations. They have a lot of options to choose from. Scented, unscented, sport, active, clear zinc, etc. The Baby/Kids line have fun scents for little ones. The main issue with this sunscreen brand is that it’s very thick and harder to apply than some of my other suggested brands. I love the company and the product options, but don’t love the way this goes on. Most people like the unscented, clear zinc option the best.
Bottles: Tubes and sticks 2.9 oz. 4 oz.
SPF: 30, 35, 40
Cost: Lots of options- all under $20 ($9-$20)
Click below for links:
Badger Kids SPF 30 2.9 fl. oz.
Badger Sport SPF 35 2.9 fl. oz.
Badger Face & Body SPF 30, 4 fl. oz.
Badger Clear Zinc SPF 30 Lavender scent
8. Kiss My Face: This company was started in the USA 35 years ago with the goal of using natural ingredients. Their goal is to “use sustainable, plant-based ingredients that are gentle to people and the planet.” They strive to use sustainable packaging as well. 
Review: The price is right for this sunscreen and it meets all of the standards of being non-toxic and reef-safe. It rubs in well, when not over-dousing, and doesn’t leave me white and pasty- always a nice bonus! It does leave more of a greasy feel than some of my other recommendations and the scent, while not very potent, is not overly appealing. It’s not a deal breaker for me as I think it works well and the price is right. I had a few kids at my pool take a sniff and they think it has a faint scent of play dough. I don’t completely agree but there is a faint scent of something. Because they’ve been around for a while, these products can be found online but also in some stores, such as Wal-Mart.
Bottles: tubes and spray 2 oz., 3.4 oz. & 4 oz., 8 oz. spray
SPF: 15, 30, 50
Cost: $10 – $22
Click below for links:
Kiss my Face Baby SPF 50, 4. oz
Kiss My Face, Face & Neck SPF 50, 2 fl. oz.
Kiss My Face Kids, SPF 30, 3.4 fl. oz.
*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
After Sun Care:. After a day in the sun, it’s always a good idea to moisturize your skin. I highly recommend body lotion from Plaine Products. The main ingredient is aloe, which helps heal your skin. Other than the soothing, all natural ingredients, their sustainable packaging and care for the environment is helping eliminate plastic from the world of skincare. 
Check out my detailed review of this amazing, sustainable company here. Or click here to go directly to their site and get 20% off with coupon code: ECOEMMA.
I’m always researching and searching for more products, so I will update this list as I try more sunscreens. This is a great list to get you started with safe, non-toxic choices for the summer!
The post Are you Ready for the Sun? My Safest Sunscreen Recommendations appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>The post Restaurants are Reopening with A LOT of Plastic appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>Are restaurants near you starting to reopen? I’ve gotten to eat out several times in the past few weeks. It’s nice to get some fresh air and dine out with my family, but there is a new trend that I’m finding to be so disturbing. So far, every restaurant where I’ve dined only has single use plastic utensils and disposable napkins. What’s even worse is that they come wrapped in plastic with a spoon, which I rarely need. And, what if you order a steak? Can a plastic knife even cut it? Not very easily. What a WASTE!
A lot of people use these plastic utensils, enjoy their meal, and never think about them again. But the problem is that these plastics end up in our oceans and pollute the world. They impact animal species, the environment, AND our health. Restaurants are not intentionally trying to harm the environment, but these new guidelines are concerning all the same.
So… what can we do as consumers? I want to support restaurants, but I can’t stand plastic waste! So without further ado, here are a few sustainable products for dining out post-quarantine.
The silicone, metal, bamboo…reusable straw trend is thankfully catching on- if you even feel the need to use a straw. But I want you to add to that by bringing your own reusable utensils when you eat out. For those looking to save money, grabbing your household utensils and sticking them in a reusable baggie or reusable container will suffice. However, if you want some easier options, I have found several options and am providing links for each.
MOST FUN:
The Hommaly Portable Stainless Steel Flatware set is the perfect option! It includes a fork, knife, spoon, chopsticks, several straws, a cleaning brush, AND it comes in a cute, waterproof container. They’ve thought of everything. There are lots of fun colors to choose from and the price ranges from $8.49-$10.99 depending on your color choice. These are a little pricier than my other suggestions because the utensils themselves have fun color choices. Black, gold, rose gold, rainbow, and silver. I personally like the rainbow! The spoon is a nice size (rather than enormous like some of my other options).
*I think this is the best choice if you have kids because you can get them each a different color, so they don’t get mixed up. The fun colors also don’t get confused with my nice kitchen set.
BEST PRICE:
Teivio: Stainless Steel- full size or portable size. The portable size is my top choice because it can fit more easily into a bag or the console of my car.
Colors: Black, silver, blue, & rose gold
Container: Black, eco-friendly
Cost: $7.49
Mividas: I like the travel case for this one because it securely holds every piece. It only comes in one color. The carrying case is a little larger than the other one so, it doesn’t fit as easily into my bag. When the case is folded closed it’s approximately 4 in. x 10 in.
Container: Charcoal grey
Cost: $11.99
Napkins: I’ve also researched reusable, cloth napkins. There are A LOT of choices out there. I’m sharing the brand that is the best price.
Cost: $17.99 for a dozen- $1.50 a napkin is not bad. There are lots of color choices here too. While they don’t come with a nice carrying case like the utensils, trust me when I tell you that you don’t want the paper napkin that comes with the plastic utensils at restaurants right now. It’s the thickness of a tissue. Completely useless, not to mention wasteful.
So, the next time you go out to eat, look around. How much plastic do you see? Please be a trend-setter and bring your own utensils. Comment below to let me know which ones you choose. I encourage you to look at my related articles as well that share other reusable options.
Also, to learn more about the issue with single use plastic, click here.
*As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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]]>The post Excitement Over a Toilet Brush: Am I Losing my Mind? appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>I’ve been using my Well Earth Goods products now for about 3 weeks. While I plan to try even more products from their company, I want to follow up on my article about sustainable products during quarantine.
I grew up with a mother who ran a very clean and extremely organized house. When I say very clean, I mean spotless- even with a family of 6. Now clearly, while we all strive to clean well, we all can’t meet that standard. I will say this though, living with such a meticulous mother taught me how to clean very well. I even got a job in college cleaning houses. So, I have spent my life exposed to cleaning tools and cleaning products and, while I don’t really enjoy cleaning, I know how to do it well. *Hence the tutorial I forced my kids to watch.
I like using a scrub brush to clean the bathroom. 
Beyond letting the cleaning supplies work for me, I apply elbow grease and really get at the stains with my scrub brush. My goal is to fully clean my shower once a week, however, I am human and sometimes life gets in the way. Last week, I saw mildew forming in the corner of my shower. *The nerve! When I started cleaning, I realized that it was engrained in the grout. When I got on my hands and knees and scrubbed, the scrub brush from Well Earth Goods was amazing. Besides the benefit of not being made of plastic, the bristles are so sharp and really did the job well- no more mildew. The brush also reached into the inside rim of my sink and the yucky stuff that came out was disturbing. Who knew it was so gross? This scrub brush is amazing! The only con is that a few bristles fell out here and there, but it wasn’t enough to make me not want to use this scrub brush.
Moving right along to the 
toilet brush. After using the toilet brush, I would venture to say that my toilets are just about as clean as they were when they were installed. The toilet brush is large and the bristles are so sharp that it really does the job it was made to do. It’s a little sad that I could get so excited about cleaning tools, but I am! I do not like cleaning, but if I have to clean- or if I make the kids– I want my tools to work well! The bristles are made of union fibers- a natural substance.
I also recommended the 
Not Paper Towels. They are a great replacement for actual paper towels. I think, however, that people are expecting them to be more like dish towels. They are not. They are thin like actual paper towels but are just better for the environment. My goal is to eventually buy the wooden container and have a larger stack of them to use. For now, I keep them under my sink and am forming the habit of using them instead of using an actual paper towel.
The reason why I decided to try these products is because of Emma’s information about plastic. Plastic is not a natural substance. The chemicals that emit from plastic are toxic and the amount of plastic in the ocean in disgusting. You can read more about
it on Emma’s tips page about the ocean air or, to understand it even better, watch the video on her tips page, “The Life Cycle of Plastic.” While changes need to be made to global infrastructures, we as consumers can do our part as well. The challenging part is that companies that eliminate plastic and work to be sustainable are not the norm. As a result, they tend to be more expensive than mainstream, well-known brands. This will only change if people modify their typical buying practices and support these businesses. That’s another reason why I’m supporting companies like Well Earth Goods.
I have had Emma telling me (and kind of harassing me) about my lack of sustainable household products for quite some time. While I like to try new things and am not completely set in my ways, I was not willing to change everything in my house at one time. What she has said, however, is to not replace products until they need to be replaced. In other words, if your toilet brush is still working well for you, don’t replace it until it no longer works well. Once I started reading what Emma shared, I realized that plastic is a MAJOR issue.
Taking the time to read Emma’s recommendations has really changed my mindset and is allowing me to better understand the environmental issues going on in the world. She recommends products that have non-toxic ingredients but that are also from companies that are trying to reduce their carbon footprint.
I hope you also consider making some changes, which is part of the mission of Emma’s website. If you have products that you’d like her to research, please comment below.
Subscribe to the website to stay informed when new articles are published. Thanks for reading!
*This article is sponsored by Well Earth Goods. It contains affiliate links.
The post Excitement Over a Toilet Brush: Am I Losing my Mind? appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>The post Sustainably Surviving Quarantine: A Mother’s Perspective appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>In Emma’s recent article about household products, she highly recommended Cleancult‘s all purpose cleaner. My question is, with what can I distribute this cleaner? Well, I have the answers, but first we need to understand the issue with plastic.
What is the issue with plastic?
Every year, Americans use millions of tons of plastic just once, before throwing it away – and much of it ends up in our oceans. Together, we can change this habit and find better solutions to reduce our reliance on plastic.
Environmental Emma’s research landed her on a company in the United States: Well Earth Goods. It’s a small business owned by a family that cares about the future and health of the earth. They’re 100% plastic-free and they ship sustainably.
While the use of plastic probably won’t completely disappear, reducing your use of it will not only help you, but also the environment. As Environmental Emma often says, it’s a “win-win.” Here are a few facts that will hopefully make you think twice…
The Dirty Facts:
- Nearly all plastic ever produced still exists. That’s disturbing.
- The equivalent of a garbage truck full of plastic is dumped into the ocean every minute. Yuck!
- By 2050, it’s projected that there will be more plastic than fish in the ocean (by weight).
- One in four fish tested contains plastic. This plastic is entering the food chain and ends up on our plates.
- Plastic is linked to cancers, impaired immunity, endocrine disruption, and other ailments. This is not okay.
So… what does this all mean? Plastic that ends up in our bodies can cause major harm. Plastic that ends up in the ocean can cause major harm. I want to make the 2050 prediction wrong! Let’s do our part to find plastic alternatives.
Well Earth Goods has done some of the work for us, and I’m highlighting a few of their products that I’ve tried so far.
Alternative to Paper Towels
Is anyone having trouble finding paper towels? I have some left, but I am seriously thinking twice before using what I have because I can’t always find a replacement in the grocery store. I used to just grab paper towels and wipe down my kitchen counters, bathroom sinks, etc. Not anymore. I am now using Not Paper Towels.
The great thing about these is that they come in a pack of 12, so I have enough to last a few days and then, I can just clean them and use them again. While the initial purchase of $29 is not cheap, I consider it an investment. A roll of paper towels is around $3, so by the time I go through 8-9 rolls, I have paid for my investment AND I no longer have to buy as many paper towels AND I’m helping the environment. The “Not Paper Towels” have a soft, flannel side and then a smoother, cotton side. I decide which side to use based on the type of surface I’m wiping. These are not thick towels. They really mimic actual paper towels in their thickness. There’s a nice looking wooden holder for your kitchen counter that holds the Not Paper Towels and it comes with 18 of the towels. It’s expensive ($119), so for now, I’m just storing them under my sink.
Paper towels can’t be recycled, so about 6 million pounds of paper towels end up in landfills every year. Think about it- paper towels also come wrapped in plastic! Not good. If the “Not Paper Towels” are too pricey, consider using your dish towels to clean rather than paper towels.
Is anyone else’s house messier than ever? As much as I love my kids and my husband, I am constantly cleaning up after them, despite my nagging! My bathrooms need to be cleaned more often, as well as the toilets. The great part is that I made my 3 kids sit and watch me clean the bathroom so they know what to do and can take turns cleaning them weekly. They just loved my demonstration. *Sarcasm
Cleaning Tools
I am a big fan of the wooden scrub brush and my kids love the opportunity to use it too! *More sarcasm I also love my new wooden toilet brush. I will say that, for some reason, the kids don’t seem to mind cleaning the toilet. A bonus for me AND for the environment since they’re using the wooden brush! The bristles on these brushes are sharp so, they work really well.
Bandages
I have three teenagers and I thought I did a decent job of teaching them how to ride a bike. Apparently, not so much. Since quarantine, 2 out of 3 have had some pretty bad falls with lots of scrapes. Until I researched, I never thought of the waste associated with bandaids. Well Earth Goods has Natural Bamboo Bandages, plastic- free, of course AND 100% compostable. I wish we weren’t going through so many, but on the bright side, at least my children are being active.
In the Kitchen
Who feels like a short-order cook? Well, I do, and a family of 5
does a really nice job using a lot of dishes. Our house rule is: if you cook the dinner, you don’t have to do the dishes. This is where the No Plastic Dish Brush comes in. It makes cleaning so fun- just ask my kids! Well, they might not be having fun, but at least we’re not using a plastic scrub brush.
I’m changing my ways to help save money and am using products that are actually available during this pandemic, but I plan to continue with these new habits of using sustainable products from now on. I realize that it’s not just an investment in my family’s well-being but also an investment in our environment and the health and future of the earth. Peruse Emma’s tips page for more in-depth information about the problem with plastic.
Click here to check out Well Earth Goods’ site and please comment below if you decide to try anything. I’d love to hear what you think.
Thank you to Environmental Emma for letting me share some of my ideas and top picks.
*This post is sponsored by Well Earth Goods. It contains affiliate links.
The post Sustainably Surviving Quarantine: A Mother’s Perspective appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>The post Low on Household Supplies? Top Quarantine Picks appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>Are you worried about running out of hand soap? Laundry detergent? Cleaners? Dish detergent? Life in quarantine is definitely causing people to take a step back and think twice before wasting household products. I know many of my family and friends didn’t realize how much detergent, cleaner, and other products they went through until these products became difficult to find. Thankfully, there are many sustainable products to replace your usual purchases, that will not only save you money, but help the planet as well. A win, win!
CleanCult Cleaner, Dish Detergent, Dish Soap, Laundry Detergent – (Promo Code Available) $
Details: Cleancult‘s all-purpose cleaner, dish soap, and hand soap come in refillable glass containers in 100% carbon neutral and sustainable packaging. All ingredients are organic, ethically sourced, and disclosed so you know exactly what you’re getting. Their cleaner can be used on ALL surfaces (kitchens, electronics, bathrooms, etc.), making it very versatile, very effective, very sustainable, and a MUCH healthier alternative to mainstream cleaning products. Plus, once you have the glass containers, your future orders will come as refills in a recyclable container- very cost effective too!
Their Hero Ingredient: COCONUTS! There’s not much that science and coconut oil can’t handle. Coconut oil is more than a likeable ingredient; it’s a competitive cleaner. Its fatty acids are known to have antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties making it an ideal cleaner base to fight off germs, dirt, grit, and grime. It’s totally safe for your day-to-day cleaning and our planet’s future, and it busts the myth that you need chemicals to effectively clean. Think about it, with Cleancult, you don’t need bleach, and you no longer have to search for Clorox wipes that you can barely find anyway!
Exciting Deal: Click on this Cleancult link and get 20% off now using the promo code: ECOEMMA.
Extra Benefits: Cleancult is 100% nontoxic, plastic-free, zero-waste, carbon neutral, and affordable. Check out their other great products!
Dropps – $ (Promo code: Dropps15)
Details: Dropps detergent is both sustainable and user-friendly. Their pods are made with organic, plant-based, safe ingredients and are in biodegradable pods. Unlike other brands, Dropps pods are formulated so that all their ingredients will break down into water before they enter the environment. Shipping is carbon neutral, all packaging is recyclable and plastic-free, they are more effective than competing brands, and they are affordable.
*This post is sponsored by Dropps and contains affiliate links to offer my readers discounts on which I will receive a small commission. All opinions shared are my own.
What I Like: One product that stands out is their laundry detergent. I like it because you can customize your detergent based on your needs. Sensitive skin? Stain and odor removal? Scent boosting? Fragrance free? They’ve got you covered!
Price: Prices and offers vary: If you subscribe to their 3-times-per-year delivery, all products are 30% off. If you DON’T subscribe, one option is their 240 pod pack for $66. This seems pricey, but if you were to buy 240 Tide pods from Walmart, this would cost you $111! WITH a subscription, 240 pods would only cost $46. Don’t worry, they also sell much smaller packages than the 240 pack. (Average cost of a Tide Pod per load is .22 cents. Dropps’s average cost per load is .19 cents)
Another Deal: Click here to choose your Dropps products. Enter promo code Dropps15 for 15% off your purchase.
Extra Benefits: Dropps is partnered with Oceana to eliminate single use plastics from Oceans, ethically source all ingredients, and list all ingredients- unlike other brands who can hide toxic ingredients as part of their “fragrance”, which is considered a trade secret and not disclosed on the label.
Looking for some informative humor? Check out the Cleancult & Dropps video below.
*This post is sponsored by Cleancult & Dropps who generously sent me their products in exchange for an honest review. This post contains affiliate links. Thanks for reading and supporting my blog!
Leave me a comment to let me know what you try. Cleaning doesn’t have to hurt the environment.
The post Low on Household Supplies? Top Quarantine Picks appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>The post Top Reusable Straws appeared first on Environmental Emma.
]]>Many have heard the phrase “save the turtles,” but reducing plastic waste can do a lot more than just protect turtles. Not to mention that anything you can easily do to reduce plastic waste can make a big difference. Americans throw away about 500 million plastic straws every day! Please consider not using straws at all, however, if you must use a straw, here are the top reusable straws available.
Strawfree Bamboo Straws
Strawfree Bamboo straws are without a doubt the best straws available on the market. They are affordable, handmade, easy to use and clean, and a quality product. Bamboo straws are also the only reusable straws that are actually compostable/recyclable, so they will truly leave behind no waste – and no carbon footprint! Metal, rubber, and even paper straws will still produce a degree of waste, even though they are still better than plastic. So, even if you don’t buy them from Strawfree, bamboo straws are definitely the best option.
Gosili Silicone Straws
These straws are another excellent alternative to plastic ones and come in convenient cases, making them easy to carry. They are also bendy and dishwasher safe, making them one of the easiest reusable straws to clean. These fun straws come in a variety of colors and sizes, making them great for every kind of drink! Silicone will also last longer than bamboo. Click on the links to try some Gosili straws: teal/orange straws, six-pack straws, multi-pack berry/cobalt
Extra: For those that have kids, young siblings, or are prone to spilling, GoSili also makes sippy cups so that every cup can be leak proof!
Asobu Reusable Metal Straws
This final set of straws is another great option to replace plastic straws. These collapsible straws come in a keychain container with a handy cleaning brush. They are made of two pieces and connected by a piece of silicone, so that you can bend them or straighten as needed. They also come in a bunch of fun colors, making them useful and cute!
*As an Amazon associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
The post Top Reusable Straws appeared first on Environmental Emma.
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