These are the 9 Best Ways to Remove Makeup Sustainably
 

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only feature brands that align with our values and contribute to a cleaner beauty industry. Thank you for supporting these brands - and us!

Sustainable Tips for Removing Your Makeup

For many of us, makeup is a part of our daily or weekly routine. Effectively removing makeup is an essential part of our skincare routine. Leftover makeup can cause breakouts or other skin reactions as well as prematurely age skin. What we put on our skin matters, however, so it’s important to choose a makeup remover that is both effective and sustainable. In this article, we’ll cover the nine best ways to remove makeup sustainably including our favorite eco-friendly makeup remover brands. 

Why is it Important to Sustainably Remove Makeup? 

Choosing a sustainable makeup remover can help save you money, protect your skin, and benefit the planet. Commonly used makeup removers involve single-use items like wipes, cotton swabs, or rounds. When we remove our makeup every day, the waste from these items adds up and has a negative environmental impact. 

Choosing a makeup remover made from sustainable ingredients is better for your skin. Not only are sustainable makeup removers free from harmful chemicals, but they also contain nourishing natural ingredients that have added benefits for our skin. 

If that’s not enough of a reason to switch to sustainable makeup remover, reusable and natural options also save you money in the long run. Natural options, like organic oils, are often more affordable than conventional makeup removers and are multipurpose. Using reusable options instead of single-use pads saves money since they don’t need to be replaced as often, if at all.

What to Look for When Choosing Eco-friendly Makeup Removers

There are numerous options for sustainable makeup removers but the best option is what’s best for you and your skin type. There are a few general things to look for when choosing a makeup remover, however, to ensure it’s a sustainable option: 

  • Eco-friendly Ingredients: Sustainable makeup removers should only include natural, plant-based ingredients. There shouldn’t be any added harmful chemicals or unnatural ingredients. 

  • Plastic Free: Look for options that don’t contain any plastics or use plastic packaging. 

  • Biodegradable and/or Compostable: Ideally, sustainable makeup removers will be fully biodegradable and or compostable. 

  • Reusable: Sustainable makeup removers should not be single-use. They should be made to last and any leftover waste should naturally break down. 

  • Sustainably Made: Look for brands that publicize how they source their ingredients or materials and how they treat their workers.

Our 9 Favorite Ways to Remove Makeup Sustainably

  1. Oil Cleansers 

Oil cleansing removes makeup and impurities without the chemicals and irritation of conventional makeup removers. Oil cleansers and balms can be used as daily cleansers and effective makeup removers and are perfect for sensitive skin types. 

There are numerous sustainable options on the market today but one of our favorite oil cleansers is from Activist Skincare.

Activist Skincare Oil Cleansers

Price: $37-44

Activist Skincare makes three oil-based cleansers that remove mascara, makeup, and sunscreen while moisturizing and respecting the skin’s natural oils.

Our favorite is Sea to Skin Cleansing Gel, which smells like a fresh ocean breeze and has a gorgeous blue hue thanks to natural spirulina extract. It removes makeup and then rinses away, leaving skin soft and dewy instead of that uncomfortable squeaky-clean feeling.

All Activist Skincare products are offered in sustainable glass packaging and refill pouches. Refills reduce CO2 emissions by 99% and plastic waste by 75% compared to recycling glass containers and tossing their lids.


2. Eco-Friendly Micellar Water

Micellar water is a popular and sustainable makeup remover since it easily absorbs oil and makeup while cleansing the pores. Micellar water is perfect for sensitive skin and can double as a toner. It’s alcohol-free and doesn’t contain harsh chemicals when you choose an eco-friendly option. 

To remove makeup, simply dab some micellar water on a reusable cotton round before applying it to your skin. If you’re a fan of heavy eye makeup or waterproof mascara, however, micellar water might not be the most effective makeup remover for you.

Evolve Organic Beauty

Price: $27

Evolve Organic Beauty’s Deep Clean Micellar Water is a wonderful sustainable makeup remover. Made from organic micellar water, it’s vegan and contains no harmful chemicals. Thanks to the aloe vera and rose water, it doubles as a toner and gently cleanses the skin, perfect for all skin types. This product contains hyaluronic acid, which helps hydrate your skin and adds a nice glow after use. Evolve handmakes its products in small batches and only uses organic, vegan, natural ingredients. 

To use as a makeup remover, pump cleansing water onto your favorite reusable pad, cloth or sponge and wipe off any makeup. 


3. Organic, Unrefined Oils

One of the easiest, budget-friendly, and zero-waste makeup remover options is natural oil. Oil is incredibly effective for removing stubborn eye makeup and you probably already have some in the house. When using oil as a makeup remover there are a few things you want to keep in mind. 

First, only use organic, unrefined natural oils. Some common and readily available options are olive oil, castor oil, coconut oil, and sunflower oil. Many of these can double as cooking or body oils. 

Secondly, If you’re prone to breakouts, it's important to choose a low or non-comedogenic oil. If oil is comedogenic, it means it's likely to clog your pores. Some great options for acne-prone or sensitive skin are rosehip oil, hempseed oil, grapeseed oil, and jojoba oil. 

To use as a makeup remover, simply apply a few drops of your favorite oil to a makeup pad or round and wipe before cleansing. Play around with oils to find the best one for your skin type.

If you find that your skin is particularly sensitive, try using oil to remove eye makeup only and use an oil cleanser or one of the other makeup removers on this list for the rest of your face.


4. Facial Cleansing Bars

Another great zero-waste makeup remover is cleansing bars. Most facial cleansing bars are made from natural, chemical-free ingredients and will be gentle enough to use as a full makeup remover (including eye makeup). Facial cleansing bars can be used on a variety of skin types and target specific skin concerns, depending on the ingredients. For example, charcoal cleansing bars can help blemish-prone skin. 

Look for fragrance-free options made from eco-friendly brands that explicitly state that they can be used as a makeup remover. Try to choose cleansing bars with no packaging or reusable or compostable packaging.

Ethique Bliss Bar

Price: $17

This gentle cleansing bar from Ethique is perfect as an everyday face wash and makeup remover. It’s vegan and made from nourishing plant-based materials like coconut butter and kaolin clay.

Simply wet the bar, rub with your hands to create a lather, and then massage all over your face, including the eye area, to remove makeup. Each Ethique bar can be used 120 times and it comes in fully compostable packaging.

Ethique is a woman-owned company that specializes in vegan zero-waste skin and hair care products.


5. DIY Makeup Remover 

Great news! Making your own sustainable makeup remover is simple and affordable. There are numerous DIY makeup remover recipes from oil-based to water-based. 

One easy recipe just requires witch hazel and water. Mix equal parts water and witch hazel for a great anti-inflammatory makeup remover. 

For oil-based makeup removers, combine your favorite organic, unrefined oils for added benefits. While using oil alone is an easy way to remove makeup, you can also add rose water or witch hazel depending on your skin type. 

For an oil-based cleanser for acne-prone skin, mix equal parts witch hazel and avocado oil. For a soothing oil-based cleanser for dry skin, combine equal parts jojoba oil and rose water. 

Don’t want to make your own? Numerous oil-based makeup removers mimic these at-home recipes. Check out this hempseed-based makeup remover from Dirty Hippie Cosmetics or Cocokind’s organic facial cleansing oil with an avocado oil base. 


6. Konjac Facial Sponge 

Konjac sponges are becoming increasingly popular in the west and for good reason. These sustainable sponges are wonderful for your skin and are multi-purpose. Konjac sponges are made from the konjac root, a vegetable native to parts of Asia. Konjac sponges can be used as a gentle exfoliating cleanser for your entire body, including your face. 

Turns out, they're also perfect to remove makeup sustainably. Gentle enough for daily use, konjac sponges only need water to remove your makeup - even eye makeup. You can also pair it with your favorite cleanser or makeup remover.

Everist Compostable Konjac Sponge

Price: $12 

Everist has a wonderful affordable compostable konjac sponge that can be used on both your face and body. Made entirely from konjac, this plastic-free sponge is fully biodegradable. You can compost it at home after 2-3 months of regular use. 

We love this sponge because it gently exfoliates our face, is easy to clean, and turns into a cushy, fluffy sponge once wet that feels great on our skin. If you pair it with a cleanser, you only need a little bit to create a nice lather. Once you’re done, rinse the sponge, gently squeeze out excess water, and hang dry until your next use. 


7. Reusable Makeup Remover Pads

If you’re a fan of single-use cotton pads, then this is the perfect sustainable makeup remover for you. Single-use pads are wasteful and that waste adds up when you consider how often you remove your makeup and how many pads you use to do so. 

Reusable rounds are easy to clean and better for our skin. They last a long time and can be thrown in the washing machine between uses. When choosing a reusable pad, look for options that are made from eco-friendly, natural materials like cotton or bamboo, and that are made by sustainable companies.

Cocokind Reusable Facial Rounds

Price: $18

Our top pick is these highly absorbent, reusable facial rounds from Cocokind. They are a similar size to your favorite single-use pads, but they’re made from sustainably sourced bamboo and cotton. Each round has a little hook for your fingers and feels super soft on your skin. 

Apply your favorite makeup remover and use the round to wipe your face. Once you’re done, throw the pads in your next load of laundry for an effective clean or handwash. 

This pack includes 14 rounds and comes in an eco-friendly mesh bag that makes it easy to travel with your reusable rounds. 


8. Sustainable Cleansing Cloths

One of the most common ways to remove makeup is by using a facial towel or washcloth. If you’ve used this method, however, you know that it’s very easy to stain your washcloths (we’re looking at you, mascara!). Plus, depending on what the washcloth is made of, it may not be the best for your skin. A sustainable makeup remover alternative is an eco-friendly facial washcloth. 

Look for antibacterial cleansing cloths made from ethically sourced natural materials that are specifically designed for use on the face.

Agave Leaf Holistic Cleansing Cloth

Price: $14

Our favorite sustainable cleansing cloth is this one from Earth Harbor Naturals. Made from sustainably harvested wild agave leaves, this gentle antibacterial cloth helps increase circulation and can be used on all skin types. You won’t find any harmful chemicals, dyes, fragrances, or plastics in this cleansing cloth. Before using the cloth for the first time, let it soak in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes. Then, apply your favorite eco-friendly makeup remover and gently rub your face to remove makeup.

The cleansing cloth should last up to 5 months of daily use. 

Each cloth is handspun at a fair trade, woman-run co-op in Mexico that also harvests the agave used. Earth Harbor Naturals ships its products in recycled, FSC Certified boxes. 


9. Reusable Swabs

If you love to use cotton swabs to remove your eye makeup, then reusable beauty swabs would be a great sustainable option for you. Traditional single-use cotton swabs add unnecessary waste that doesn’t break down easily. However, swabs are very effective at removing eye makeup, so we understand not wanting to forgo them entirely.  

Thankfully, there’s a sustainable alternative. Choose a reusable swab made from natural materials. They are easy to wash and convenient to store, thanks to their small size. Plus, reusable swabs often feel nicer on the skin than single-use ones.

LastSwab Beauty Reusable Swab

Price: $24

LastObject makes these awesome reusable swabs from BPA-free recycled ocean plastic. Each swab can be used over 1,000 times and is easy to wash after each use. 

Simply dip the pointed end in your favorite makeup remover and wipe off your eye makeup.

Each beauty swab kit can be recycled once it’s reached the maximum use.

They come in a colorful compact case also made from recycled plastic.


Makeup Removers to Avoid: Single-Use Wipes 

The least sustainable option for removing makeup is makeup-removing wipes. These single-use wipes are typically made from unsustainable materials like plastic and polyester. Since each wipe can only be used once, they are pretty wasteful. With so many reusable options readily and affordably available, it’s best to avoid single-use makeup wipes when possible. 

However, we can’t ignore the convenience of single-use wipes, especially if you’re on the go. If you have to use them, choose compostable and biodegradable wipes made from sustainable materials, and never flush them down the toilet. 

One sustainable option is Burt’s Bees Micellar Makeup Removing Wipes which are home-compostable and made from upcycled cotton. 


About the Author

Alicia Briggs is a writer & editor specializing in slow travel & sustainable living. She has been a full-time traveler since 2018 and runs her own blog, Learning the Local Way, where she covers responsible travel tips and guides.


MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!


WANT TO FIND MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS?

The Brand Directory features hundreds of sustainable brands approved by us!

We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.


RELATED READING YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY:

 
8 Sustainable Raincoats For Eco-Friendly Fashion On a Rainy Day (2024)
 

Image: Baxter Wood

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only ever add brands & products we truly believe in. Thank you for supporting the brands who are making the fashion industry a better place!

The Best Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Rain Jackets & Raincoats

When it starts raining, many of us grab our reliable raincoats. But have you ever considered the environmental impact of your rainy day attire? Fortunately, there are several brands who offer sustainable raincoats. These innovative raincoats are designed not only to keep you dry, but are also made from high-quality, planet-friendly materials. They are designed with sustainability in mind, often using recycled materials like plastic bottles or fishing nets to prevent them from ending up in landfills or oceans. There are various designs, colors, and patterns available to suit every taste and climate. Whether you like a classic trench coat or a bold color, you can make a fashion statement while positively impacting the planet. Embrace the future of sustainable fashion, where raincoats not only protect you from the elements but also safeguard the environment on which we all depend!

The Rise of Sustainable Fashion

In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards sustainable fashion. As people become more aware of the detrimental effects of fast fashion on the environment, they are seeking out alternatives that are kinder to the planet. Sustainable fashion is all about reducing waste, minimizing the use of harmful chemicals, and promoting ethical practices throughout the supply chain. It's a shift towards a more conscious way of consuming and dressing.

Most raincoats today are made from virgin synthetic fabrics derived from petroleum and toxic dyes. They are often priced very low making it difficult to pay the makers a fair wage.

What is a Sustainable Rain Jacket?

A sustainable rain jacket, or raincoat, is made from eco-friendly materials (typically recycled polyesters for waterproofing), produced ethically, and designed to last. A sustainable raincoat is also the one that is currently sitting in your closet - or one you find in a secondhand shop!

our top picks for Eco-Friendly, sustainable raincoats & Rain Jackets:

1. tentree

❤︎❤︎❤︎

Price: $69 - 125

Sizes: XS-XL

For: Women & Men

tentree is a B Corp and climate-neutral company that gets its name from its pledge to plant ten trees for every purchase.

Their sustainable essentials are created with the smallest possible environmental footprint, using eco-friendly materials like TENCEL, organic cotton, hemp, and recycled polyester.

They have 5 different rain jacket styles (3 for women, 2 for men) made with a recycled polyester lining and finished with PFC-free DWR. Their Nimbus Long Rain Jacket (pictured) is fully lined with taped seams and a cell phone pocket.

tentree’s partner factories are regularly audited to ensure they comply with the brand’s Code of Conduct and international labor standards.They have 5 different rain jacket styles (3 for women, 2 for men) made with a recycled polyester lining.


2. Girlfriend Collective

❤︎❤︎❤︎

Price: $41 - 79

Sizes: XXS- 6XL

For: Women

Girlfriend Collective makes many of their products, including raincoats, from recycled plastic bottles, nylon, or fishing net.

Their packaging is also all recycled and recyclable. They are very transparent about their manufacturing processes.

Our favorite thing about Girlfriend Collective is they are very size-inclusive, and the more people you can reach, the more sustainable your brand.

The Girlfriend Collective offers a windbreaker that is water-resistant. It also has a hideable hood, zippered pockets and a cinchable waist.


3. Patagonia

❤︎❤︎❤︎

Price: $80 - 449

Sizes: XXS-3XL

For: Men, Women & Kids

Patagonia, based out of the wonderful state of Oregon, are early pioneers of sustainability; doing it long before the term sustainable fashion was even coined. Patagonia makes most of their coats with 100% recycled materials, usually nylon or polyester from plastic bottles.

Over 80% of their products are certified Fair Trade, including their raincoats. Finally, they continue to increase their use of solar and wind energy, and are a bluesign approved partner.

Patagonia has one of the largest selections of raincoats, so you will find a fit and color you love. My favorite is the Tortenshell 3L jacket in Bayou Blue. Most of their selection is lightweight, a great choice for layering. Nearly all coats come with storm flaps on the pockets and hood area to keep you nice and dry. Some have a lined neck or pockets for extra warmth – so cozy. What we love about shopping Patagonia is they have coats for the whole family!


4. Amble

❤︎❤︎

Price: $149 - 179

Sizes: XS-4X

For: Women

If you are looking for fun prints and a unique brand - Amble is it! 

They cover the whole of sustainability from recycled fabrics to ethical factories, carbon-neutral products, plastic-free packaging, and tree planting with every order.

Since they launched, they have recycled over 250,000 post-consumer bottles into fabrics. They keep track of this in their annual Sustainability Reports highlighting their achievements and future goals. 

A Melbourne-based small business designed, Amble is owned and run by women committed to getting more women outdoors!


5. Kampos

❤︎❤︎

Price: $316

Sizes: XS-XXL

For: Men & Women

KAMPOS redefines luxury by transforming waste found in the ocean into high-quality clothing.

Its unisex rain jackets are handcrafted in Italy, and they are available in two colors (navy and olive green). KAMPOS uses recycled packaging that is also 100% recyclable and FSC-certified.

It also donates part of its profits to the Coral Conservation Project, an initiative launched to protect and restore coral reefs in the Maldives. 

The brand is a certified B Corporation, and in 2022, it was named Best for the World™ in the Environment and Community categories. Plus, KAMPOS received the Butterfly Mark accreditation, which identifies luxury brands meeting the highest standards of environmental performance.


6. Mila.Vert

❤︎❤︎

Price: €553 - 690

Sizes: XS-XL

For: Women

If you are looking for a classic trench coat you can carry with you for many years, this would be the brand to shop!

Mila Vert makes its clothing to order, which helps eliminate left-over stock and avoid over-production. Another benefit is that their raincoats can be tailored to make sure it fits you perfectly: Mila Vert offers free custom-fit orders tailored to your body measurements! 

The brand creates its clothes in collaboration with two local sewing companies that provide optimal working conditions and fair living wages to their talented makers, seamstresses and tailors. 

Mila Vert also ships its clothing in plastic-free packaging, and it makes its fabric bags using scrap materials to reduce its textile waste.


7. Wuxly

❤︎❤︎

Price: $372 - 695

Sizes: XS-XL

For: Women & Men

Looking for a pop of color?

We love Wuxly’s colorful trench coats!

Animal-free, made with recycled materials, and ethically manufactured in Canada, Wuxly parkas have kept people warm (and animals out of the equation) since 2015.

They are also a Certified B Corp brand, and to be a circular brand, they offer you $100 off a new Wuxly parka when returning your old one. As well they will fix it up for someone in need. We love brands that keep their products out of the landfill!


8. Baxter Wood

❤︎

Price: $200

Sizes: XXS-XL

For: Men & Women

Baxter Wood makes their coats using recycled polyester from plastic bottles.

Twenty-two bottles that would otherwise end up in a landfill for decades are instead turned into a coat.

They don’t stop there though, they buy back rubber boots and raincoats, giving you a $30 credit while upcycling them into other uses.

Finally, they donate 10% of their products to sustainable education programs.

Baxter Wood has the classic rain slicker look down. They even have a yellow one –who hasn’t fancied themselves a yellow rain slicker at some point in their life? If yellow is not your thing, they have many other fun colors. The large pockets and adjustable hood will keep you dry during nearly any rainstorm. The button-up front adds another pop of style. Baxter Woods carries one classic style for men and women at one price point, making shopping simple and easy.


How to Care For Your Sustainable Rain Jacket

To maintain the longevity of your sustainable raincoat, it is essential to provide proper care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your raincoat:

  1. Follow the Care Instructions: Each raincoat may have specific care instructions, so it's important to follow them carefully. Pay attention to recommended washing temperatures, drying methods, and any other special care requirements.

  2. Spot Clean: If your raincoat has only a small stain or spot, consider spot cleaning it instead of washing the entire garment. This will help conserve water and energy.

  3. Wash Less Frequently: Raincoats do not need to be washed as frequently as other garments since they primarily serve as a protective layer. Only wash your raincoat when it is visibly dirty or after extended use.

  4. Use Non-Toxic, Gentle Detergents: When washing your raincoat, use gentle detergents free from harsh chemicals to preserve the fabric's integrity and reduce environmental impact. Find our favorite non-toxic laundry detergents here.

  5. Store Properly: When not in use, store your raincoat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent any unnecessary damage or fading of the fabric.


MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!


WANT TO FIND MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS?

The Brand Directory features hundreds of sustainable brands approved by us!

We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.


related reading you may also enjoy:

 
14 Non-Toxic & Organic Pillow Brands For A Sustainable Night’s Sleep (2024)
 

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only feature brands that align with our values and contribute to a better world. Thank you for supporting these brands - and us!

the best NON-TOXIC & Organic PILLOWS

For many years, sleep was not my priority. As a young adult, I thought that neglecting my sleep wouldn’t do much harm. I know that so many people are guilty of this, but this isn’t a healthy way to live. A good night’s sleep is crucial for our well-being, health, and ability to concentrate. We not only should get at least seven hours of shut-eye per night, but we also need to make sure that we are sleeping well. 

One of the best ways to improve our sleep quality is by investing in comfortable pillows. However, most pillows contain hazardous chemicals and toxins that we are exposed to all night long. 

These conventional pillows are not only unhealthy, but they’re also not sustainably made. The key to avoiding them is to buy your sleep pillows from brands that care about your health and the planet.

Here is a compilation of 14 brands that make sustainable, non-toxic pillows! 

WHAT MAKES PILLOWS SUSTAINABLE & NON-TOXIC?

Sustainable and non-toxic pillows are made from eco-friendly materials, without using any harsh chemicals and treatments. 

An easy way to know if you’re investing in a healthy pillow is to check if it has been certified non-toxic by MADE SAFE, or if the brand received the Greenguard Gold certification. Both are proof that you will not be exposed to unsafe chemicals while sleeping. 

Do not forget to make sure that the pillow you are purchasing is of good quality. It needs to be comfortable, provide proper support, and keep its shape with time. 

Sustainable pillows are also made by transparent companies that pay their workers well, and that often give back to non-profit organizations. 

WHAT ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

When looking for a non-toxic pillow, always choose one made from natural materials. Here are some materials you can find in sustainable pillows:

  • GOTS-certified organic cotton

  • GOLS-certified organic latex 

  • Buckwheat hulls

  • Eucalyptus or kapok tree fiber

  • Sugarcane fiber

  • Woolmark-certified wool

  • Responsible Down Standard certified down 

    These materials are even more sustainable if they’re organic and certified by Oeko-Tex or CertiPur-US. They’re all sustainable, but each one has a different feel. So choose your favorite depending on your preferences! 

OUR TOP PICKS FOR Sustainable, NON-TOXIC & Organic PILLOWS:

1. Naturepedic

Materials: Organic Latex, Organic Cotton, Sugarcane Fiber

Price: $79 - 139

Naturepedic creates comfortable bedding, pillows and mattresses for the whole family. 

The brand offers three types of pillows, all made in the USA. They’re made of FSC and GOLS-certified organic latex, or PLA, a non-toxic sustainable fiber derived from non-GMO sugarcane. 

PLA is a great innovative material that has wonderful moisture-wicking properties, and doesn’t contain harmful chemicals. The outer fabric of Naturepedic pillows is made of 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton, which makes the pillow super soft and breathable. 

The brand’s pillows are certified non-toxic by MADE SAFE and the company received the Gold certification by GreenGuard. 

Naturepedic is also a member of 1% For The Planet, and has partnered with many other environmental organizations.


2. Saatva

Materials: Fair Trade Certified Organic Cotton, Natural Latex

Price: $115 - 285

Saatva is a sustainable mattress and bedding brand handcrafting products in the United States using responsibly sourced materials.

We highly suggest trying the Natural Latex pillows! They are comfortable and made with a breathable Fair Trade Certified™ cotton pillow cover that is machine washable. You can choose from either a standard or high loft.

The brand works with 19 factory partners across the United States, meaning that, on average, its products travel less than 100 miles from the factory to your home. This drastically reduces Saatva’s carbon footprint! The company also regularly donates mattresses to those in need and supports different reforestation projects.


3. Cozy Earth

Materials: Silk, Bamboo

Price: $225

Cozy Earth creates beautiful bedding and loungewear for women and men, mainly from bamboo. 

Available in standard and king size, the brand’s pillow is made from an all-natural AAA grade 100% long-strand Mulberry silk, and is free of harsh chemicals. The shell is super soft and luxurious, made of viscose from pesticide-free bamboo fabric. This pillow is temperature regulating, which means that you don’t need to worry about sweaty nights anymore.

It’s also easily moldable and great for allergy sufferers. It truly feels like a cloud! 

Cozy Earth’s pillow is on the pricier side, but it’s well-made, long-lasting and the brand offers a 10-year warranty. The pillow is also machine-washable and free of harmful dyes.


4. Coyuchi

Materials: Organic Latex, Organic Cotton, Down 

Price: $128 - 238

Coyuchi creates clothing for the whole family, as well as a variety of home goods, including sheets, pillows and towels. 

The brand sells different GOLS-certified latex pillows. They’re all super soft, comfortable and supportive! You can also choose down pillows, filled with down from an Indiana farm that raises its ducks humanely. 

Coyuchi even makes a small pillow, perfect for toddlers or for traveling. The brand’s body pillow offers extra support, which is great for pregnant women or people suffering from back pain. I love that all the inner pillow covers are made of GOTS organic cotton! 

Coyuchi also has a take-back program for old linens that are either renewed and sold on the second-hand Coyuchi platform, or they are recycled.


5. Avocado

Materials: Organic Latex, Organic Cotton

Price: $98 - 206

Avocado makes mattresses, pillows and bedding with only organic, natural, and non-toxic materials. 

The brand sells standard pillows that are handmade from GOLS organic latex and GOTS organic cotton in its factory in California. It even sells mini pillows that are great for traveling, as well as a small non-toxic pillow made for toddlers. 

All Avocado’s pillows are Greenguard Gold certified by UL Environment. It means that they meet the most rigorous standards for chemical and pollutant exposure. 

Avocado is a certified B Corporation, a member of 1% For The Planet, and it became climate-neutral in 2019. One year later, the company took it one step further by going carbon negative, offsetting more carbon emissions than it generates.


6. Brentwood Home

Materials: Memory Foam, Tencel, Polyester

Price: $122 - 143

Brentwood Home makes mattresses, sheets, pillows and yoga cushions for the whole family. 

The brand sells classic and wedge pillows that received the Greenguard Gold certification. Its wedge pillows have a gradual slope, providing comfortable support. They should help ease respiratory problems, as well as neck and shoulder pain. 

Brentwood Home’s pillows are crafted in its Los Angeles factory that is FSC, GOLS and GOTS organic certified. They’re all made with plant-based memory foam, derived from vegetable materials, such as castor oil beans, corn, soybeans and sunflower seeds. 

The company is 100% carbon negative, and it has partnered with the National Forest Foundation to plant more than 10,000 trees within the United States.


7. Birch

Materials: Organic Cotton, Latex, Wool, Recycled Material 

Price: $112 - 130

Birch is an American brand selling organic sleep products made from sustainable materials. All its products are handcrafted and made in the United States. 

The brand makes two pillows, each with different eco-friendly materials. The Birch Organic Pillow includes cruelty-free wool that is ethically sourced from New Zealand farms, organic cotton, and natural latex that is Oeko-Tex certified. 

The Eco-Rest Pillow is filled with 100% recycled material that is sustainably sourced in the US, and wrapped in an organic cotton case. 

All Birch’s products are GOTS-certified, meaning that they’re organic, ethically produced and free of hazardous chemicals. They also received the Greenguard Gold certification, and the company works with Fair Trade certified factories.


8. Savvy Rest

Materials: Natural Latex, Organic Wool, a Wool-Natural Latex Blend, Organic Kapok Fiber

Price: $125 - 275

Savvy Rest has 7 styles of organic pillows!

Three are formed natural latex, and four have customizable loose fill—shredded natural latex, organic wool, a wool-natural latex blend, or organic kapok fiber.

All their organic pillows have unbleached, naturally-colored organic cotton casings with a soft flannel finish. They even have body pillows!

code: SUSTAINABLYCHIC20 for 20% off


9. SOL Organics

Materials: Down, Organic Cotton

Price: $147 - 199

SOL Organics is a bedding company that makes its linens and other products from organic cotton, using low-impact organic dyes. 

The brand sells a hypoallergenic pillow made from 100% Canadian white down that is responsibly sourced, and wrapped in an organic cotton shell. Since it’s made from 100% natural materials, this pillow is very lightweight and breathable. 

SOL Organics uses Fair Trade and GOTS-certified cotton, and its down received the DOWNMARK certification. It means that the company meets strict requirements, ensuring humane down harvesting practices and ethical treatment of birds. 

The brand offers carbon-free shipping, and donates $7.50 of each purchase to a social justice or environmental charity selected by the customer.


10. Sleep & Beyond

Materials: Latex, Wool, Cotton 

Price: $119 - 149

Sleep & Beyond is a family-owned manufacturer of organic and natural bedding. It creates pillows of various shapes, including sleep training pillows, side pillows as well as standard pillows. The brand’s pillows are filled with latex or wool, encased in Oeko-Tex certified cotton fiber. They’re designed to provide proper neck support and help reduce neck pains and headaches. 

All Sleep & Beyond’s wool is Woolmark-certified for 100% pure wool quality, and the brand received the Fair Trade certification. It also makes sure that every left-over raw material from the production process is reused in some way. 

The company has also been providing comforters and pillows to different social justice organizations, including GIFT, a non-profit that helps victims of human trafficking.


11. White Lotus Home

Materials: Kapok Fiber, Organic Cotton, Latex, Buckwheat, Wool

Price: $98 - 266

White Lotus Home has been making high-quality mattresses, bedding, pillows and other home goods since 1981. All its products are handcrafted by skilled artisans in New Jersey. 

It has a variety of sleep pillows to choose from, for all budgets and in different natural materials. The company sells 100% organic cotton pillows hand-stuffed to avoid lumps for extra comfort. 

White Lotus Home’s wool pillows are made from free-range and pasture-fed sheep, and its latex pillow is perfect for people with dust and mold allergies. 

The brand also sells pillows made from buckwheat hulls, as well as pillows made with kapok fiber, which comes from a Central American tree. How cool is that?!


12. Happsy

Materials: Organic Latex, Organic Cotton

Price: $59 - 79

Happsy sells the first fully certified organic mattress in-a-box, as well as a few sleep accessories, including pillows. 

The company makes a soft pillow made with GOLS organic latex, and wrapped in a GOTS organic cotton fabric. Handcrafted by skilled artisans in the United States, it is designed to provide great support and proper spinal alignment.

Happsy pillow has been scrutinized by MADE SAFE experts who make sure products do not contain harmful ingredients. It also received the Greenguard Gold certification, which means that you will not be exposed to dangerous chemicals while sleeping. 

The company is climate-neutral and partnered with 1% For The Planet to donate part of its profits to environmental causes.


13. PlushBeds

Materials: Latex, Memory Foam, Tencel, Wool, Down, Cotton

Price: $46 - 479

PlushBeds has been a pioneer in the production of sustainable American-made mattresses and sleep accessories. 

The company offers a wide variety of pillows to choose from. It sells GOLS-certified latex pillows that have wonderful ventilation, which is ideal for people who tend to be hot during the night.

PlushBeds’ goose down pillows are Responsible Down Standard certified. It means that the down was produced ethically, without animal cruelty (including no live-plucking and force-feeding).

You can buy pillows made of responsibly sourced wool that is 100% chemical and cruelty-free.

PlushBeds’ products are eco-INSTITUT and Greenguard Gold certified. The company regularly supports social justice and environmental non-profits.

They do have some pillows made from polyester, which we would avoid.


14. Buffy

Materials: Recycled Plastic, Eucalyptus Fiber 

Price: $40 - 95

Buffy sells eco-friendly pillows, comforters and linens made from innovative materials like eucalyptus, hemp, and recycled plastic. 

The brand makes a standard sleep pillow, as well as a body pillow, both filled with a soft fiber made from recycled plastic bottles that were diverted from landfills and oceans. 

They’re covered in a 100% eucalyptus fabric that is certified by Oeko-Tex. It is more sustainable than cotton as eucalyptus is grown using a lot less water. The mill also plants four trees for every three it harvests, thus contributing to forest conservation. 

Buffy reveals the carbon footprint of its pillows, and offsets all its CO2 emissions from freight and shipping. To top it all, it ships its pillows in FSC-certified recycled cardboard boxes! 

These pillows are filled with recycled plastic, so if you are looking to avoid plastic completely in the home, we suggest the other brands.


About the Author

Eva Astoul is a French freelance writer, specializing in content related to sustainability, simple living, and a growth-focused healthy lifestyle.

She runs her own blog, Green With Less, to inspire people to live a more minimalist and sustainable life.


MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!


WANT TO FIND MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS?

The Brand Directory features hundreds of sustainable brands approved by us!

We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.


RELATED READING YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY:

 
11 Sustainable Razors for a Smooth and Eco-Friendly Shave (2024)
 

Image: EcoRoots

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only feature brands that align with our values and contribute to a cleaner beauty industry. Thank you for supporting these brands - and us!

The Best Eco-Friendly, Sustainable Razors

Finding the perfect razor for a bump-free shave sometimes feels like a never-ending struggle. If you’re also trying to find a sustainable option, you may feel a little overwhelmed by the choices. That’s what we’re here for. Getting a sustainable and smooth shave is easy with any of the eleven eco-friendly razors we’ve featured below.

What Makes a Razor Eco-fRiendly and Sustainable? 

Razors are one of the more wasteful products we use regularly. Conventional razors are made primarily from plastic. Reusable razors only last a few shaves before the blades are thrown away, while disposable razors are typically tossed after one use. This waste adds up, filling our landfills. 

Thankfully, eco-friendly and sustainable razors are the perfect solution to this. Eco-Friendly razors are made from natural materials and don’t contain plastic (unless it’s recycled, most of these are plastic-free razors). Safety razors are one of your most sustainable options - and we have several included here!

They will typically be reusable and built to last a lifetime. When your blades, or your razor, need to be replaced, you can easily recycle sustainable razors. 

Sustainable razors will usually be manufactured by ethical companies that use eco-friendly packaging and sustainable production methods.

Our Top Picks for Brands Selling Sustainable Razors:

1. Leaf Shave 

Materials: Zinc, Stainless Steel

Price: $55 - 84

Leaf Shave is a wonderful brand designing plastic-free, sustainable razors. Each leaf razor is made entirely from metal and comes with ten different razor blades.

Built with a pivoting head to ensure you have easy, nick-free shaves, these are ideal unisex razors for sensitive skin. 

They offer three different blade options, but they recommend their single blade for beginners.  

Leaf Shave is a climate-neutral certified company. They state that they have prevented 3+ million plastic razors from going to the landfill to date.


code: SustainablyChic10 for 10% off

2. Zomchi

Materials: Chromed Brass, Bamboo

Price: $20 - 57

Zomchi has an extensive line of unisex safety razors made primarily from metal. They also have one bamboo razor available. Each reusable razor is meant to last and you can buy blade replacements easily from Zomchi.

Their razors come with a wonderful metal stand to make storage easy. 

Plus, they have a 100% satisfaction guarantee so you can purchase without stress. 


3. Jungle Culture

Materials: Chrome, Organic Cotton, Jute, Bamboo

Price: $29

Jungle Culture razors are reusable safety razors made from a variety of natural materials. Their sustainable razors are unisex and built to last.

They have three different safety razors, as well as one bamboo razor, to choose from. 

Jungle Culture also has a lovely line of vegan shaving soaps for a complete, zero-waste shave. 

One thing I love about this company is that they work directly with local farmers and artisans in Vietnam to produce their eco-friendly products. 


4. EcoRoots

Materials: Stainless Steel

Price: $40

EcoRoots has great options for reusable, plastic-free, and zero waste razors. Their Rose-Gold or Black safety razors fit any style and skin. They also produce their own organic shaving soap as well as an exfoliant, in order to ensure you are bump-free. While these safety razors are made to last, they can also be recycled when you’re done with them. EcoRoots is woman-owned and a 1% for the planet partner. 


5. Preserve 

Materials: Recycled Plastic

Price: $11 - 13

Preserve is a certified B Corp that produces more sustainable razors made from recycled plastic.

Each razor is fully recyclable and BPA free.

Plus, they make everything locally in the US. 

Preserve also has their own recycling take-back program. You simply look up the nearest drop-off center or ship your old razors directly back to them. They will then recycle them for you. 


6. Bulldog

Materials: Bamboo, Metal, Recycled Glass

Price: $15 - 20

Bulldog has four wonderful sustainable razors to choose from. This includes a bamboo razor and a glass razor. The glass is made from over 70% recycled glass. 

For each razor, they also offer a model designed specifically for sensitive skin. 

Bulldog is a US company. They offer an extensive line of sustainable skincare options for shaving, moisturizing, cleansing, and beard care. 


7. Hanni

Materials: Metal

Price: $42

Hanni has a beautiful sustainable women’s razor called the “Weighted Razor.” It comes in three chic and feminine colors such as burgundy, flame, and blush. 

Their eco-friendly women's razor is plastic-free and made entirely from metal. They offer an extra-long handle designed to make your shaves smoother and easier. Their head curve is angled to specifically fit women’s curves. 

Aside from their razor, they also offer stylish blade holders and razor stands. Hanni is a woman-owned company that makes products for women.


8. Upcircle

Materials: Chrome

Price: $42

If you’re looking for the best sustainable razors in the UK, Upcircle is a wonderful local company to support. They are a vegan skincare company that specializes in upcycling food waste to make sustainable products. Their chrome safety razor is a great choice for a smooth shave. They also offer aluminum razor stands for simple storage.

Upcircle has their own refill program. You can send back your old blades and they will recycle them for you. You’ll also get store credit!


9. Bevel

Materials: Brass

Price: $50

Bevel designs quality sustainable men’s razors available at Target. These eco-friendly razors are made to prevent bumps and ingrown hairs. They also offer a complete line of natural skincare products like pre-shave oil and exfoliating body wash

Bevel is a Black-Owned business that donates a portion of their proceeds to supporting formerly incarcerated Black men. They support programs that help to prevent recidivism by providing job training & education opportunities. 


10. Bambaw

Materials: Stainless Steel, Bamboo, Metal

Price: $17 - 19

Bambaw is a carbon-neutral certified company. Their mission is to develop sustainable alternatives to popular single-use items. 

If you’re looking for a great bamboo razor, Bambaw should be your first stop. They have three different reusable razors to choose from as well as shaving kits. Razors aside, they have a wonderful line of zero waste products made primarily from bamboo. 


11. Merkur 

Materials: Chrome

Price: $35 - 65

Merkur designs some of the best eco-friendly razors. Their safety razors are adjustable and available in different handle lengths. They even offer a travel size option. Merkur has a variety of blade options to fit different hair types, ensuring you have the smoothest shave possible. 

Merkur is a German brand that has been operating for over 120 years. Everything is made by experienced craftspeople. 


About the Author

Alicia Briggs is a writer & editor specializing in slow travel & sustainable living. She has been a full-time traveler since 2018 and runs her own blog, Learning the Local Way, where she covers responsible travel tips and guides.


MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!


WANT TO FIND MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS?

The Brand Directory features hundreds of sustainable brands approved by us!

We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.


RELATED READING YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY:

 
7 Sustainable Rain Boots To Keep Your Feet Dry in 2024
 

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only feature brands that align with our values and contribute to a better fashion industry. Thank you for supporting these brands - and us!

ECO-FRIENDLY & Sustainable RAIN BOOTS

If you live in a place where it’s raining frequently, rain boots are an essential shoe to have in your closet. It is very uncomfortable and irritating to have wet feet, and you put yourself at risk of getting sick or developing blisters.  

That’s why you might want to consider getting a good pair of rain boots for those rainy days to make sure your feet are dry, warm and protected. 

However, the main issue with rain boots is that it is complicated to find a pair that is sustainably and ethically made. Most rain boots on the market are made of PVC and other plastic components. 

PVC contains many chemicals that are toxic to both the environment and human health. They’re even more dangerous to children, so buying them a pair of PVC rain boots is a no-no! 

But when rain boots are a necessity for everyday life, you still need to buy them. Fortunately, you can choose healthier and more sustainable alternatives. 

We’ve compiled a list of 7 brands that sell sustainable rain boots so that you can keep your feet dry and protected in all weathers.

WHAT MAKES RAIN BOOTS ECO-FRIENDLY?

It is complicated to find an eco-friendly pair of rain boots, but those made using natural materials are your best options, especially those made from renewable resources. 

Sustainable rain boots will always be well-built and high-quality. You buy rain boots because you want waterproof shoes that will not leak in the rain. They shouldn’t develop holes after only a few seasons. So investing in quality boots is essential so that you’ll be able to wear them for years to come. 

Also, rain boots should not be made at the expense of workers. The brand needs to offer them safe and decent working conditions, and pay them a fair wage. Its supply chain should be as transparent and traceable as possible. 

Brand Rating Guide:

❤︎ = we like ❤︎❤︎ = we really like ❤︎❤︎❤︎ = we LOVE

Click here to learn how we rate brands on Sustainably Chic

WHAT ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

If you want sustainable rain boots, avoid synthetic materials and choose natural ones instead.   

The most frequent material you will find in eco-friendly rain boots is natural rubber. Natural rubber is a renewable material that is usually tapped from hevea trees. 

It’s also important to make sure the rubber is sustainably sourced, and that its production doesn’t contribute to mass deforestation. To do so, look for rubber boots with the Forest Stewardship Council certification

The FSC is an organization that promotes responsible management of forests, audits plantations, and certifies those that protect natural resources, biodiversity and human rights. 

Choosing rubber products that are certified by the Fair Rubber Association is another way to make sure the rubber is sustainably sourced, following fair trade principles.

You could also buy rain boots made from waterproof leather, as it’s a very durable material. But preferably, choose leather that is vegetable-tanned and produced in tanneries that are Gold-rated by the Leather Working Group.

OUR TOP PICKS FOR COMFY, SUSTAINABLE RAIN BOOTS:

1. Will’s Vegan Store

❤︎❤︎

For: Men & Women

Materials: Rubber

Price: $124 - 186

Will’s Vegan Store is a brand making vegan footwear, clothing and accessories for men and women. The brand sells many waterproof shoes, but it has one specific model of rain boots, the WVSport Waterproof Country Boots. It’s the same model for both women and men, and they are made to be durable. Plus, they’re waterproof all the way to the top of the shoes! 

The rain boots feature Vibram rubber injection outsoles designed to provide grip, traction and stability. They also have a soft stretchy knitted back panel that makes them even more comfortable to wear. 

Made in Italy, Will’s Vegan Store’s rain boots are certified carbon-neutral, and customers can send them back at the end of their life to recycle them and turn them into new uppers and outsoles.


2. Merry People

❤︎

For: Women & Kids

Materials: Natural Rubber

Price: $60 - 170

Merry People creates rain boots for women and children, as well as other rain accessories like umbrellas and raincoats. 

The brand’s best-selling rain boots are ankle boots with a classic Chelsea boot design.

They come in a wide range of colors, and they are tested for sub-zero temperatures.

The soles are built with arch support, which makes them the perfect everyday lifestyle rain boots. 

For extra protection in the rain, you can choose Merry People’s mid-calf rain boots that have an increased height coverage. The brand’s rain boots are also available with enhanced traction soles with a wider tread pattern to provide extra grip. 

Merry People’s rain boots come with a 12-month warranty, and are made using natural rubber and vegan glue. 

The company has made donations to environmental and social justice charities.


3. Thesus

❤︎❤︎❤︎

For: Women

Materials: Recycled Rubber

Price: $158

Thesus creates sustainable footwear from eco-friendly materials, like recycled rubber & recycled nylon.

They recently launched the ‘Anyway Rainboot,’ which is handmade in a family-run factory in Portugal.

These boots are easy to clean and are made with a 100% recycled rubber upper. They are great for all seasons because of their grippy lug sole and 100% recycled nylon sweat-wicking lining.

The comfy memory foam provides extra comfort, and they easily slip on and off with the pull tabs and stretch side panels.


4. Everlane

❤︎

For: Women

Materials: Rubber

Price: $34 - 85

Everlane is a fashion brand making clothing, footwear and accessories for men and women. 

The brand has a women’s model of ankle rain boots that you can choose in black, white, green and pink. They feature a slip-resistant tread and a cushioned insole to make them more comfortable and practical to wear daily. 

The rain boots are made using flexible rubber and are designed so that you can wear big, fluffy socks with them. They also have pull tabs and stretch side panels for them to be easy to slip on.  

Everlane is very transparent, and it discloses where and in what factory its shoes are made. 

The company has been making progress and is switching from using virgin materials to recycled ones. At this time, 45% of its plastic footwear components are made from recycled materials.


5. Native

❤︎

For: Men, Women & Kids

Materials: Injection Molded Bio-based EVA, Rubber

Price: $32 - 55

Native is known for making water-friendly shoes that can be worn almost anywhere. Their 'Sugarlite' collection, which features a blend of traditional EVA and a sugarcane-derived resin, is especially popular. When you're done wearing a pair, you can simply ship them back to help create materials for playgrounds through their Remix Project. You can read all about this here.


6. Gray Label

❤︎❤︎

For: Kids

Materials: Natural Rubber

Price: $57

Gray Label is a Dutch brand creating high-quality fashion pieces and accessories for babies, children and adults. 

The brand sells rain boots for children, available in six different colors. They are made using FSC-certified natural rubber, with organic canvas on the inside. These are the perfect outdoor shoes for your kids on a rainy day! 

Made in Slovakia, these boots have a timeless and minimalist style, and are comfortable for everyday wear. Their helpful pull tabs will make it easy for your children to put them on in no time. 

The company is GOTS certified, and its packaging is PVC-free and made using recycled materials. Another green initiative Gray Label started is its clothing subscription service: you can now rent clothing for babies and toddlers for up to 2 years at affordable prices.


7. Aigle

For: Women, Men, Kids

Materials: Natural Rubber, Leather, Recycled Rubber

Price: $28-430

Aigle is a French brand that has been selling clothing and shoes for all weathers, for men, women and children, since 1853. 

The brand offers a huge selection of rain boots for adults and children, featuring various styles and colors. They are handmade and individually checked to ensure they’re entirely waterproof. 

Aigle’s rain boots are made using natural rubber, and standard models contain around 30 to 35% of recycled rubber. The rubber suppliers are based in Vietnam and Thailand, and the company works with a trader that is FSC-certified. The brand also sells models made of leather. 

Aigle is a partner of the LPO environmental organization, whose mission is to raise awareness, heal and protect the seven species of eagles that we can still find in France. 

The company also upcycles 54% of the waste produced at its manufacturing site, and reuses 90% of unprocessed rubber. 

*we typically wouldn’t recommend this brand as a whole, but we do appreciate their commitment to quality rainbows made from eco-minded materials


About the Author:

Eva Astoul is a French freelance writer, specializing in content related to sustainability, simple living, and a growth-focused healthy lifestyle. She runs her own blog, Green With Less, to inspire people to live a more minimalist and sustainable life.


MAKE SURE TO PIN THE PHOTO BELOW TO SAVE THIS POST FOR LATER!


WANT TO FIND MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS?

The Brand Directory features hundreds of sustainable brands approved by us!

We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.


RELATED READING YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: