Gift swaps can feel stressful, especially when you want to avoid junk or single-use plastics. Eco-friendly gifts are growing popular, and help cut back on plastic waste. This list shows you fifteen cool finds under twenty bucks for your next New Year’s swap, from recycled materials to fair trade beauty sets.
You won’t want to miss these budget-friendly picks!
Top 15 Eco-Friendly Gifts Under $20
1. Earthava eco-friendly phone cases (exception it is over 20$)
Perfect for eco-conscious shoppers seeking stylish and luxurious gifts.
Highlights
- Biodegradable and plant-based materials offer a sustainable way to protect your phone.
- Enjoy a generous 23% discount, reducing the price from $65 to $49.95.
- Available in various designs, including Earthy, Wildlife, Anime, and options for Him and Her.
- Features shock-resistant construction and supports wireless charging.
- Free shipping is available on orders over $99 to select countries.
Earthava eco-friendly phone cases stand out for their blend of style and sustainability. Made from biodegradable and plant-based materials, these cases protect your phone and help the planet. A soft-touch finish and shock-resistant design provide solid protection while supporting wireless charging for everyday convenience. Unique designs cater to different tastes, so everyone can sustainably express their personality.
Pros
- Protects your phone and the planet with eco-friendly materials.
- Saves money with a generous discount.
- Offers a variety of designs for personal expression.
- Provides practical features like shock resistance and wireless charging compatibility.
Cons
- Some designs may not suit every taste.
- Variety may be limited for lesser-known phone brands.
- The sale price may still seem high for very budget-minded buyers.
2. LuminAID Color Solar String Light with Phone Charger
Brighten your adventures with vibrant solar lights and USB charging!
Highlights
- Multicolor LED string lights create a vibrant atmosphere outdoors.
- Built-in phone charger allows charging using solar power.
- Seven color modes with a fading transition effect add versatility.
- Lightweight design at 11.2 ounces makes it highly portable.
- Operates with solar power or USB-C for flexible charging.
- Ideal for camping trips or backyard gatherings.
Imagine a campfire scene enriched with vibrant lighting that doubles as a phone charger. LuminAID Color Solar String Light provides versatile lighting options with seven color modes and a smooth fading effect. Weighing only 11.2 ounces, it recharges via solar power or USB-C, delivering a functional and practical eco-friendly gift.
Pros
- Creates vivid outdoor lighting for various occasions.
- Portable and lightweight for easy transport.
- Dual charging options ensure power backup outdoors.
- Offers multiple lighting modes for diverse settings.
Cons
- Battery performance may decline on extended trips.
- Solar charging can be slow in cloudy weather.
- Lightweight design can be affected by wind if not secured.
3. ENBEI Women’s Crochet Tote Bag Knit Shoulder bag
Perfect stylish gift for eco-conscious fashion lovers.
Highlights
- Crafted from durable polyester featuring a unique crochet design.
- Secure button closure keeps belongings safe with a spacious interior.
- Lightweight construction is ideal for casual outings, shopping, or beach days.
The ENBEI Women’s Crochet Tote Bag combines style with eco-friendly design. Its fashionable crochet pattern appeals to those who support sustainable gifts. The attractive gift box packaging and versatile design make this tote a practical addition for any wardrobe and a reflection of your values.
Pros
- Elegant packaging suitable for special occasions.
- Eco-conscious design meets sustainable fashion ideals.
- Sturdy yet lightweight for everyday use.
- Complements varied outfits with its versatile style.
Cons
- The crochet design may limit load capacity.
- Light colors are prone to showing dirt and stains.
- Strap length may be short for some users.
4. The Veggie Straws Unwrapped Biodegradable Straws
Best for eco-conscious drinkers who love stylish, affordable gifts.
Highlights
- Made from vegetable fibers, offering sustainable and biodegradable use.
- Comes with 100 durable, unwrapped straws measuring 8.25 inches each.
- Lightweight design at 3.52 ounces makes them convenient for on-the-go use.
- Natural brown color provides an organic aesthetic without added dyes.
- High customer rating of 4.7 stars ensures strong user satisfaction.
The Veggie Straws offer a biodegradable alternative to drinkware that reduces plastic waste. Crafted from vegetable fibers, they retain structure in both hot and cold beverages without affecting flavor.
Pros
- Reduces plastic waste with a biodegradable design.
- Sturdy performance in various drink temperatures.
- Economical pack size offers strong value.
- Presents a neutral taste experience with flavorless material.
Cons
- May feel thin for beverages like smoothies.
- Not ideal for those who prefer reusable alternatives.
- Some users might prefer a wider diameter for larger drinks.
5. Friendsheep Wool Dryer Balls
Best for eco-conscious gifts that reduce waste and soften laundry.
Highlights
- Made from 100% natural wool for a safe, eco-friendly laundry solution.
- Helps reduce drying time by improving air circulation in the dryer.
- Naturally softens clothes without chemicals or synthetic additives.
- Reusable for up to 1,000 loads and packaged in a compact design.
Friendsheep Wool Dryer Balls offer an eco-friendly way to improve laundry routines. Crafted from organic wool, they reduce static and soften fabrics naturally while replacing single-use dryer sheets.
Pros
- Reduces static cling and attracts pet hair effectively.
- Reusable design lasts over 1,000 loads, saving money.
- Provides an eco-friendly alternative to disposable dryer sheets.
- Results in naturally softer, less wrinkled clothes.
Cons
- It may take several loads to notice full drying improvements.
- Extra weight can cause some garments to clump together.
- May produce slight noise during tumbling.
6. Candle by the Hour 70-Hour Beehive Candle
Best for creating a calming, eco-friendly atmosphere on a budget.
Highlights
- Provides a burn time of 70 hours with a unique beehive style.
- Made from natural, sustainable beeswax for a clean burning experience.
- Features a sturdy cotton wick for even melting and minimal soot.
- Emits a pleasant honey scent to create a cozy atmosphere.
- Presented in an attractive cylindrical copper container.
- Uses non-toxic materials safe for use around family and pets.
Candle by the Hour 70-Hour Beehive Candle delivers a calm glow and an inviting honey scent. Constructed with natural beeswax and presented in a stylish copper-tone design, it supports environmental stewardship while adding a decorative touch to any space.
Pros
- Creates a soothing atmosphere with natural beeswax aroma.
- Helps clear indoor air by neutralizing dust and odors.
- Features an eye-catching design that serves as a conversation piece.
- Provides an extended burn time of 70 hours.
Cons
- Price may be higher than standard candles.
- Design may not match all decor styles.
- Beeswax may cause reactions for those sensitive to bee products.
7. LeafLife Premium Bamboo Tea Bottle for Loose Tea
Best for eco-conscious drinkers who love flavorful loose tea.
Highlights
- Includes a 2-piece detachable tea infuser and strainer for versatile brewing.
- Features a stainless steel, double-walled design that keeps drinks hot for 12 hours or cold for 24 hours.
- Styled with a bamboo pattern that adds a natural appearance.
- Compact size (4.7” wide by 8.2” high) makes it easy to carry.
- Suitable for various beverages such as tea, coffee, or water.
LeafLife Premium Bamboo Tea Bottle serves as an eco-friendly container for tea lovers. Made from organic bamboo with a detachable infuser, its double-walled stainless steel design maintains beverage temperatures while reducing dependence on single-use products.
Pros
- Offers three infusion methods for brewing loose tea.
- Keeps drinks hot for 12 hours and cold for 24 hours.
- Promotes eco-friendly living by reducing single-use waste.
- A distinct bamboo pattern gives each bottle a unique look.
Cons
- The bamboo exterior may require gentle care to avoid damage.
- Hand washing alone may not suit every routine.
- The 17-oz capacity might require frequent refills.
8. Crate 61 Natural Bar Soap
Perfect for eco-friendly gift seekers on a budget, delightfully unique.
Highlights
- Handmade in Canada with plant-based ingredients, using a cold-process method.
- Offers a refreshing citrus scent with more than 15 natural scent options.
- Compact dimensions of 6 x 3 x 2 inches and lightweight for travel.
- Packaged in eco-friendly FSC-certified paperboard to support sustainability.
Crate 61 Natural Bar Soap provides a plant-based clean that nourishes the skin with premium essential oils—Handmade in Canada and wrapped in eco-friendly packaging.
Pros
- Contains only natural ingredients without synthetic additives.
- Offers a wide range of pleasing natural scents.
- Eco-friendly packaging reinforces a commitment to sustainability.
- Leaves skin nourished with natural oils and butters.
Cons
- Scents may be subtle for some preferences.
- Texture might feel slightly rough due to natural components.
- Price may be higher compared to mass-produced soaps.
9. Burt’s Bees Lip Balm
Nourish Your Lips Naturally with Affordable, Eco-Friendly Care
Highlights
- Offers deep moisture using responsibly sourced beeswax and vitamin E for up to 12 hours.
- Provides a matte finish with a refreshing peppermint flavor.
- Compact size fits easily in a purse or pocket for on-the-go care.
Burt’s Bees Lip Balm supplies long-lasting hydration without harsh chemicals. Formulated for all skin types, this balm promotes eco-friendly care by utilizing natural ingredients while supporting a sustainable lifestyle.
Pros
- Portable option for everyday lip care.
- Uses natural, non-toxic ingredients.
- Delivers 12-hour lasting moisture with a pleasant matte finish.
- Refreshes lips with a subtle peppermint flavor.
Cons
- Some users may find the texture slightly waxy.
- The peppermint flavor might be too strong for sensitive users.
- Limited options for tinted lips may not satisfy those seeking color.
10. BYTTME Reusable Beeswax Wrap
Eco-friendly wraps keep food fresh and reduce plastic waste.
Highlights
- Made from organic GOTS-certified cotton combined with natural beeswax, jojoba oil, and tree resin.
- Includes 9 wraps in assorted sizes: 5 small, 3 medium, and 1 extra-large.
- Reusable design helps reduce plastic waste while keeping food fresh.
- Lightweight at 10.5 ounces, ideal for everyday kitchen use.
BYTTME Reusable Beeswax Wraps offer a practical substitute for plastic wrap. Their self-adhesive design secures food and promotes a sustainable approach in the kitchen.
Pros
- Supports a plastic-free kitchen environment.
- Reusable and washable for many uses.
- Includes various sizes for versatile food storage.
- Keeps food fresh with natural sealing properties.
Cons
- Unsuitable for high heat; avoid using in microwaves or ovens.
- Requires gentle hand washing with cool water.
- Stickiness may lessen after many washes.
11. MRD Hair Brush Set
Perfect for eco-conscious gift-givers seeking affordable hair care solutions.
Highlights
- Includes a standard brush, mini brush, wide-tooth comb, and rat tail comb with eco-friendly bamboo handles.
- The round shape design enhances hair styling and adds volume.
- Lightweight at 6.38 ounces and compact for travel or daily use.
MRD Hair Brush Set offers eco-friendly tools that ease detangling and support scalp health. Constructed with natural bamboo, these brushes cater to diverse hair types and align with sustainable values.
Pros
- Effortlessly detangles hair for varied hair types.
- Supports an eco-friendly lifestyle with sustainable materials.
- Compact design is ideal for travel.
- Stimulates scalp health by boosting blood flow.
Cons
- It may not work as well with very thick or tangled hair.
- Bamboo handles might become slippery when wet.
- Lacks a carrying case for added travel convenience.
12. Virgin Forest 10 Count Bamboo Toothbrush
Switch to eco-friendly brushing with affordable bamboo toothbrushes today!
Highlights
- Soft nylon bristles offer gentle cleaning and are infused with charcoal for freshness.
- Eco-friendly biodegradable bamboo handle supports sustainable living.
- Includes family identification letters on a compact, 7.5-inch design.
Virgin Forest Bamboo Toothbrush set is a practical way to reduce plastic waste with eco-friendly brushing. The natural bamboo handle and soft bristles meet the needs of sustainable home goods while providing reliable oral care. If you want to know view through different other varieties look like, you can check our guide and picks of wooden toothbrushes.
Pros
- Provides a sustainable alternative to plastic toothbrushes.
- Lightweight design suitable for travel.
- Offers a comfortable grip with easy family identification.
- Recyclable packaging supports environmental stewardship.
Cons
- Bamboo handles may seem less durable than synthetic options.
- Softer bristles might require more frequent replacement.
- Natural materials need careful handling to avoid damage.
13. Eco-Friendly Unique Natural Gift Beauty Set
Best for eco-conscious women seeking affordable self-care gifts.
Highlights
- Includes bamboo makeup brushes, a vegan bamboo roller, and a soft microfiber towel.
- A jade roller reduces puffiness and enhances skin glow.
- Packaged in an eco-friendly, recyclable gift box that supports sustainable living.
This beauty set offers natural self-care tools for a gentle makeup routine. With eco-friendly brushes and a jade roller, it supports sustainable values while adding a spa-like touch.
Pros
- Provides renewable beauty tools for a natural makeup application.
- Cruelty-free and eco-friendly, aligning with sustainable beauty trends.
- Attractive packaging enhances its appeal as a thoughtful gift.
- Enriches daily routines with skin-loving, natural products.
Cons
- Bamboo brushes may require a short break-in period.
- The jade roller might feel cool for some users.
- May not include heavy-duty tools for professional outcomes. Materials need careful handling to avoid damage.
14. KitchenKind Clean & Kind Gift Set
Perfect eco-friendly gift set for sustainable kitchen upgrades under budget.
Highlights
- Made from bamboo and natural fibers, offering a compostable and plastic-free option.
- Includes a variety of brushes for bottles, flasks, dishes, pots, and vegetables.
- Presented in attractive gift-ready packaging.
- Ergonomic design with durable construction and replaceable heads.
KitchenKind Clean & Kind Gift Set brings together eco-friendly cleaning tools that upgrade kitchen routines. The bamboo brush set supports the planet while promoting efficient cleaning.
Pros
- Provides a plastic-free cleaning solution with compostable materials.
- Ergonomic and durable design enhances usability.
- Attractive packaging makes it a fitting gift.
- Versatile tools cover a range of kitchen tasks.
Cons
- The price may seem high for basic cleaning needs.
- Natural bristles could wear faster than synthetic versions.
- Installation of replacement heads requires care.
15. Isshah Plant-Based Kitchen Sponges
Perfect gift for eco-friendly cleaning enthusiasts on a budget!
Highlights
- Constructed from eco-friendly sisal material for sustainable cleaning.
- Non-scratch design ensures safe use on delicate surfaces like ceramics.
- Reusable sponges that help reduce waste and save money.
- Each pack includes 12 sponges with a lightweight design of 4.6 ounces.
- Suitable for kitchen, bathroom, and general household cleaning tasks.
Isshah Plant-Based Kitchen Sponges turn cleaning into an eco-friendly task. With natural sisal fibers that remove grime without scratching, these sponges promote a sustainable alternative to disposable options. Their reusable design and budget-friendly price make them a smart gift for Earth supporters.
Pros
- Reduces waste with a reusable design.
- Gentle on surfaces while maintaining effective cleaning.
- Versatile enough for multiple areas of the home.
- Offers affordability for budget-friendly gift swaps.
Cons
- May wear out quicker than synthetic sponges.
- Natural fibers might not remove heavy grime as effectively.
- Texture can feel rough during prolonged use.
Creative DIY Eco-Friendly Gift Ideas
Crafting your own eco-friendly gifts can be a fun and meaningful experience. You can use recycled materials to create something special for everyone on your list. Try making homemade face wash or shampoos with natural ingredients.
Knitted items from recycled cotton are also great options. These handmade touches show you care about the planet and the people in your life. Dig deeper into these ideas for some budget-friendly inspiration!
Easy, Budget-Friendly DIY Projects
Crafting DIY gifts saves money and helps the planet. These projects are perfect for New Year’s swaps and won’t break the bank.
- Make your bath salts using Epsom salt, essential oils, and dried flowers. Package them in jars you’ve saved.
- Create beeswax wraps with cotton fabric and beeswax pellets to replace plastic wraps.
- Knit or crochet small pouches out of recycled yarn for a personal twist.
- Use recycled paper to craft personalized journals or notepads.
- Build bird feeders from old teacups and saucers to support local wildlife.
- Mix natural ingredients like sugar, coconut oil, and lemon juice for homemade lip scrubs.
- Sew tote bags from old T-shirts or recycled cotton as sustainable fashion pieces.
- Plant herbs in repurposed containers for a gift that keeps on giving.
- Assemble a kit of loose tea leaves and a reusable tea infuser as an eco-friendly alternative to tea bags.
- Design custom bookmarks from cardboard scraps, perfect for the book lovers in your life.
- Make candles using soy wax and essential oils in upcycled jars or containers.
- Craft homemade face masks with natural clays and oatmeal for a spa-like treatment at home.
- Compile recipes into a handcrafted cookbook using recycled paper.
Each project lets you add your unique twist while promoting a sustainable lifestyle through thoughtful gifting.
Thoughtful Handmade Touches
Handmade gifts express affection and provide an exclusive touch that purchased items cannot offer. Here are some suggestions for creating environmentally conscious gifts with your own hands:
- Utilize soy wax and essential oils for candle making. Select fragrances that the recipient adores.
- Prepare lip balm with natural components like beeswax and coconut oil, tailored to the recipient’s preferred flavors.
- Stitch reusable shopping bags using upcycled or organic cotton. Choose vibrant colors or appealing designs.
- Transform glass jars into plant holders or mini storage bins. Adorn them with paint or fabric.
- Use sustainable yarns to create warm scarves, hats, or mittens through knitting or crocheting.
- Bake homemade cookies or bread and use beeswax wraps for eco-friendly packaging.
- Design personal greeting cards using scrap paper and available materials at home.
- Produce natural soap bars using ingredients such as olive oil, lye, and essential oils for fragrance.
- Put together a photo album using recycled paper. Include photos that evoke pleasant memories.
- Decorate stones or pebbles as paperweights or ornamental items with non-toxic paints.
- Gather favorite recipes into a handcrafted cookbook featuring sustainable kitchen tips.
Conclusion: Making a Positive Impact with Budget-Friendly Green Gifting
You do not need a big wallet to make a real difference. Small, thoughtful gifts can spark joy while cutting down on waste. Want something practical? Try the Earthava phone case for everyday style. For someone who enjoys nature, choose the LuminAID Color Solar String Light with Phone Charger to save cash, reduce your footprint, and bring fresh energy to your next New Year’s swap.
FAQ
You can find water bottles made from recycled materials, reusable plastic straws, and items crafted with regenerative organic cotton. These sustainable home goods encourage environmental stewardship without breaking the bank.
Yes, several options exist. Look for bags made from recycled cotton or products featuring embroidery using dyed threads sourced from the recycling industry. Even footwear sometimes uses outsole material created from trash.
These eco-friendly gifts push us to be mindful of our choices and promote environmental responsibility in daily routines. Swapping out single-use plastics or choosing items with responsible sourcing helps reduce waste.
Absolutely! Many brands offer fashionable accessories crafted with attention to detail, like dyed fabrics and unique patterns, while staying true to their commitment to environmental stewardship.
Choosing sustainable gifts shows you value both your wallet and the planet’s future; it also supports companies making genuine efforts in the recycling industry and promotes a greener lifestyle.
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Earthava is an environmental collective designed to turn awareness into impact. From deep dives into ecology to daily sustainable swaps, we provide the tools and intel you need to protect the ground you stand on.