10 Brands Selling Sustainable Laptop Sleeves To Keep Your Computer Safe While On-The-Go (2024)
 

Image: Allegorie

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the best eco-friendly laptop Bags, Sleeves & cases

Costing up to a few thousand dollars, laptops are expensive and valuable electronics that have become, over the past two decades, an essential tool in most people’s lives. However, producing electronics is a very unsustainable and unethical activity. 

For instance, we need to mine rare minerals which are non-renewable resources. Mining is extremely damaging to the environment, not to mention the miners who work in very unhealthy and unsafe conditions.  

The manufacturing process also relies on huge amounts of energy and water, and it has a massive carbon footprint. And at the end of their lives, electronics become e-waste which causes many other environmental issues. 

Of course, we cannot completely stop using electronics as they play such a big role in today’s society. But what we can do is prolong their lives for as long as possible. 

That is why we need to protect our precious laptops from spills, drops, scratches, and bumps. A high-quality laptop sleeve is a must-have, whether you need to take your laptop with you on your faraway adventures, on your commute to work, or on your next trip to the coffee shop. 

We have selected ten brands that sell sustainable laptop sleeves to keep your laptop safe from the hustle and bustle of your daily life!

click - here - to check out sustainable backpacks to house your sleeves

WHAT MAKES A LAPTOP SLEEVE SUSTAINABLE?

A laptop sleeve is eco-friendly when it is made with high-quality, sustainable materials in an ethical way. The workers who make it should be paid a fair wage and work in safe working conditions. The laptop sleeve should be built to last for many years without getting worn down. 

A sustainable laptop sleeve should also protect your laptop efficiently. As we mentioned, electronics are damaging to the environment, so the sleeve needs to keep your laptop safe so that it can function well for many years to come.  

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?

Sustainable laptop sleeves can be made from a variety of eco-friendly materials. If you can find a sleeve made of organic cottonhemp or linen, that is amazing! But you could also choose one made using upcycled fabrics, or recycled materials like recycled polyester and recycled cotton. 

Some laptop sleeves are made of leather, which is a durable material. But try to choose leather sourced from a tannery that was Gold-rated by the Leather Working Group, and that is tanned naturally using vegetable tannins. 

Laptop sleeves made from apple leather, or any other type of vegan leather made using discarded fruits, are another eco-friendly option!

our favorite sustainable laptop sleeves: 

1. Bellroy

❤︎

Materials: Recycled PET Plastic Bottles
Price: $35 - 79

A Certified B-Corp Brand, Bellroy’s laptop sleeves feature soft microfiber padding for protection and slim profiles, so they slip easily into your bag.

In addition, Bellroy works with the Centre for Effective Altruism to support some not-for-profit projects, is transparent about the efforts to improve their sustainability, and works hard to be a positive place to work.

The brand is based in Melbourne, Australia.


2. Terra Thread

❤︎❤︎

Materials: Organic Cotton
Price: $38 - 50

Terra Thread is a sustainable brand that sells all kinds of bags for everyday life, from backpacks to gym bags to toiletry bags. 

It has two different laptop sleeves that can either fit 13” or 15” laptops. Available in many colors, both models feature an inside lining to provide padding and extra protection for your electronics.

They also have an outside pocket where you can store chargers, notebooks and office supplies. 

Terra Thread’s laptop sleeves are built to last and made with 14 oz heavy-duty organic cotton canvas. The zippers are lead-free, and the cotton used by the brand is GOTS-certified as well as Fairtrade.

The company’s products are all made in a Fair Trade certified factory, meaning that workers are paid a fair wage, offered safe working conditions, and not exposed to toxic chemicals. Terra Thread’s whole supply chain is also very transparent and traceable.  

With each purchase of a Terra Thread laptop sleeve, the brand helps and supports Feeding America, which is on a journey to end hunger in the United States by donating meals to families in need.   

Terra Thread is a certified B Corporation. It is also completely carbon-neutral since it offsets its whole carbon footprint by investing in renewable energy, reforestation and social impact projects. 


3. Urth

❤︎

Materials: Recycled Nylon
Price: $59

Urth weatherproof laptop sleeves are made from 70% recycled materials and come with a lifetime warranty.

Each sleeve features the world's most trusted YKK zippers, ensuring durability which is crucial to sustainability.

Additionally, for every laptop sleeve purchased, five trees are planted, making them carbon positive.


4. Allegorie

❤︎❤︎❤︎

Materials: Vegan Apple Leather 
Price: $345

Allégorie is an innovative, women-owned brand that creates different kinds of bags, including backpacks, purses and wallets, all from food waste. The brand has a tech case, the Gala Tech Folio Bag, where you can store a 13” laptop, a tablet as well many other accessories and work essentials. It has a main compartment with a laptop sleeve and a larger pocket that is big enough to fit a few notebooks and a tablet. The case also features two smaller pockets that are practical for storing a phone, a wallet, keys and earphones.

Allégorie’s tech case is made of apple leather, crafted from plant-based materials and discarded apple peels from the juice industry.

The biobased materials are USDA-certified and the final tech case is 100% free of PVC. It is certified by the World Fair Trade Organization because it was made ethically, following all Fair Trade principles. 

The laptop case is also OEKO-TEX-certified, meaning that it does not contain any harmful chemicals, so it is entirely safe for you! 

Available in pink, black and brown, the Gala Tech Folio Bag is very stylish and timeless, but also highly practical and functional. It has a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap which allows you to carry it as a regular bag or to easily slip it into another bag as a laptop sleeve.

use code F52BNCRC89D3 for 10% off your purchase (exclusions may apply)


5. O My Bag

❤︎❤︎

Materials: Organic Cotton, Leather
Price: $32-140

O My Bag is a Dutch brand that creates bags and accessories for both women and men.

The brand has a large selection of laptop sleeves that are all stylish and beautifully designed. 

Its striped cotton sleeve, available in two colors, is made to protect any 13” laptop thanks to its soft interior padding. It is made of GOTS-certified organic cotton, and it features a velcro fastening so that you can access your computer with ease. 

O My Bag also sells different laptop sleeves made of leather. The brand’s leather is tanned without harmful chemicals using vegetable tannins, and it has no synthetic top finish. The leather ages beautifully over time, gets softer, deepens in color and develops a nice sheen.

Almost all O My Bag leather laptop sleeves are made in a factory that is recognized as fair trade by the World Fair Trade Organization. The company also won the Sustainable Leather Awards in 2015 for its eco-friendly leather materials. 

O My Bag is a certified B Corporation and donates 1% of its revenues to support projects promoting education and women empowerment in India. The brand ships its products in recycled materials that are FSC-certified, and its whole shipping process is carbon-neutral. 


6. Parker Clay

❤︎❤︎

Materials: Leather 
Price: $66 - 96

Parker Clay crafts premium leather bags while employing women that used to work in the commercial sex industry in Ethiopia, offering them stable, safe and dignified jobs. 

The brand sells three laptop sleeves, all made to keep your precious computer safe wherever you go.

Their soft interior lining is designed to protect your laptop from bumps, drops and damage.

Parker Clay’s Sira sleeve fits 13” laptops and features a zipper closure and two interior pockets to organize your essentials.

Parker Clay also has another model, the Presidio, which is available for 13” and 15” laptops. Created in rust brown, dark brown or black, its simple and chic design makes it the perfect laptop sleeve for work trips and meetings. 

If you want a more unique and personalized laptop sleeve, you can even choose to have these sleeves monogrammed!

Parker Clay’s laptop sleeves are handmade using sustainably sourced leather that is a byproduct of local Ethiopian farming industries. The tanning process used to make this leather recycles water and is done using traditional techniques and knowledge. 

The leather develops a unique shine and patina as it gets older, so it should become more and more beautiful with time. 

Parker Clay is a certified B Corporation that pays its artisans fair wages and strives to keep its environmental footprint minimal. 


7. Issara

❤︎

Materials: Leather, Cotton
Price: $139 - 200

Issara creates minimalist-looking leather bags and wallets for travel and work, for both men and women. 

The brand has a classic laptop sleeve, available in different sizes, that is designed to store 11”, 12”, 13” and 15” laptops. You can get it in the colors black, navy blue, orange/brown or dark red. The sleeve is padded to protect your electronics, and it features polished Japanese zippers and a practical, internal pocket. You will love its simple, yet stylish and elegant design! 

Issara also sells a Portfolio model, which is wider and can fit a 15” laptop as well as documents and many other items. It has two internal pouches, a pen holder and an external zippered pocket where you could easily fit an iPad Mini. 

Every Issara laptop sleeve is handcrafted from milled full-grain leather, and it has a grey cotton twill lining that is AZO-free. The brand only uses the highest grade leather, and it is tanned using vegetable tannins and chrome salts. 

The hides are sourced from a family-owned tannery in New Zealand, which is BSCI-certified and compliant with ISO 14001. Issara’s leather is free of AZO and disperse dyes, and the zippers are nickel-free. 

The brand’s products are all made in India or Indonesia by skilled craftsmen who use ancestral techniques passed down from generation to generation.


8. Baggu

❤︎❤︎

Materials: Recycled Nylon & PET Polyfill
Price: $32

How great is this print? BAGGU offers several more designs just as fun as this one.

They use recycled materials like nylon and cotton, and all their products are made in ISO-certified factories in China. These factories are third-party audited annually to ensure safety and ethical production. Additionally, when your bag reaches the end of its life, you can send it back to BAGGU to be recycled by the American Textile Recycling Service.


9. Cuyana

❤︎

Materials: Leather
Price: $98 - 198

We adore this convertible leather laptop sleeve from Cuyana! It features Italian pebbled leather and contrasting colors. This sleek, non-padded design is built to be your long-term companion.

It can keep your laptop in place as you travel and commute, or you can use the case as a leather pad underneath your laptop at home.

Cuyana also offers a standard laptop sleeve that easily fits in one of their beautiful totes!


10. Flowfold

❤︎

Materials: Recycled Polyester, Nylon, Polyester
Price: $45

Flowfold is a Maine-based company creating high-quality wallets, backpacks, dog gear and many other accessories. The brand has a sleeve for 13” and 15” laptops. Even though the laptop case has a simple design, it is well-made and sturdy, and its padded interior structure protects your electronics from scratches, drops, spills and bumps.  

Highly functional and lightweight, it features a convenient outer zip pocket that is ideal to store all your tech accessories, from your charger to your earphones and mouse. 

Flowfold’s laptop sleeve is handmade in the United States using durable, water-repellent fabrics. The Purple/Light Grey and the Olive/Brick Red versions of this case are made from 100% recycled polyester. It does not contain any PVC, TPU, DWR or other toxic coatings, and it is free of volatile organic compounds, meaning that it is safer for you! 

You can also choose this laptop sleeve in Heather Grey or Jet Black. Made of nylon and polyester, they are very durable and crafted to stand up to abrasion, moisture and stress. 

Almost all the materials Flowfold uses are sourced locally, meaning that the carbon footprint of its products is lower compared to other products on the market. The company also offers a lifetime warranty on its laptop sleeves. 


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.


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9 Sustainable Kids' Swimwear Brands For A Summer of Sun & Fun (2024)
 

Image: Mon Coeur

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!

THE BEST SUSTAINABLE KIDS’ SWIMWEAR

Whenever you go to the beach, there are a few specific things you need to bring to make your trip fun and unforgettable. One of the most important things you should not forget to pack in your suitcase is your swimsuit. 

Whether you enjoy swimming in the ocean or the pool or simply prefer relaxing on your beach towel, swimwear is absolutely essential to have. 

Sometimes, it can be tricky to find a good-quality swimsuit. But as an adult, once you have found one or two you like, you can usually enjoy them for a while. For kids’ swimwear, it is a little different as children grow so quickly! You have to buy new swim shorts or bikini sets for your kids a lot more regularly! 

Plus, as an eco-conscious parent, you might want to purchase swimsuits that will not harm the planet. This can be difficult because they are all made of synthetic materials, and we know how bad plastic is for our environment. 

So if you are looking for new eco-friendly swimwear for your children this year, this article is for you! We have selected 9 brands selling sustainable kids’ swimsuits so that you and your family can create happy memories on your next trip to the beach! 

WHAT MAKES bathing suits SUSTAINABLE? 

When we see kids’ swimsuits costing as little as a few dollars at the store, we can easily be tempted to go for the cheap option. However, with such a low price tag, swimwear cannot be made to last or produced under ethical conditions. 

So try to avoid fast fashion brands as much as possible, and support an ethical company that pays its workers a fair wage, treats them well and provides them with healthy, safe working conditions. Remember that when something is too cheap, someone in the supply chain is paying the price. 

You also don’t want your child to lose his/her swimsuit while having fun with friends. So investing in quality is the way to go to make sure the piece will last. 

Finally, try to support brands that have taken steps to minimize their environmental footprint, and choose swimwear made from eco-friendly materials. 

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?

Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to avoid synthetic materials when buying swimsuits as they have to be stretchy. Natural fabrics would also not last long if used in salt water or chlorine-filled swimming pools.  

Thankfully, there are sustainable alternatives to polyester and nylon, which are what most swimsuits on the market are made of. For instance, recycled polyester and recycled nylon, produced from plastic water bottles or nylon fishing nets, are great options! 

Buying swimwear made with these materials helps divert plastic waste from landfills and oceans and encourages manufacturers to stop using virgin petroleum-based materials to create new products.  

OUR TOP PICKS FOR SUSTAINABLE Childrens SWIMWEAr:

1. Hanna Andersson

❤︎

Size Range: Newborn To Size 12

Materials: Recycled Nylon, Recycled Polyester, Cotton, Polyester

Price Range: $19 - 52

Founded in 1983, Hanna Andersson has made sustainability and circularity two of its core principles. It crafts pajamas for the whole family and all kinds of other clothes for children and babies. The brand sells many types of swimwear for your kiddos, including long-sleeve rash guards, boys’ swim trunks, girls’ tankini sets, and one-piece suits.

They are all designed with happy patterns and colors, marrying functionality and comfort. 

Most of Hanna Andersson’s swimsuits are made from recycled nylon or recycled polyester. They also received the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification, so they are completely safe to wear and free of harmful chemicals.  

The company’s fabrics are incredibly durable and built to last so that the clothes can be worn again and again, and handed down to other children later. They also have offer a pre-loved section where you can buy secondhand Hanna Andersson!

Hanna Andersson regularly supports charities, like Baby2Baby, which provides children in need with clothes, diapers, and other basic necessities.


2. Frugi

❤︎❤︎

Size Range: 6 Months To 12 Years

Materials: Recycled Polyester, Organic Cotton 

Price Range: $15 - 57

Frugi is a British children’s clothing brand that creates high-quality pieces using GOTS-certified organic cotton. Its clothes are recognizable by their bright, vibrant colors and playful prints. 

The company offers several swimsuits for babies and children up to 12 years.

It has two swim shorts, one adorned with lovely shells and the other decorated with fun surfboards. Frugi also sells two rash guard sets with cute little marine animals, like sharks, fishes and whales. 

The brand’s swimwear is made from recycled polyester using post-consumer recycled plastic bottles. The fabric dries very quickly, making these swimsuits super practical whether your child wants to swim, surf or build sandcastles.  

Frugi has also received many awards for its commitment to sustainability and ethical manufacturing. For instance, it won the 2019 Drapers Independents Awards as “Kids’ Brand of the Year”. In 2020, it was also awarded two Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, Sustainable Development and International Trade, which are the most prestigious awards for British businesses.


3. Mon Coeur

❤︎❤︎❤︎

Size Range: 3 Months To 8 Years

Materials: Recycled Polyester, Recycled Nylon

Price Range: $55 - 64

Mon Coeur, which means “my heart” in French, is an earth-friendly children’s clothing brand creating pieces with deadstock fabrics and recycled materials. 

It offers different kinds of swimsuits for babies and children up to 8 years, all made using 100% recycled European fabrics.

For instance, it has several swim trunks produced from rescued fishing nets, as well as rash guards and bikini sets made from recycled plastic bottles. 

The bikini sets feature fun oversized ties at the shoulders and bottoms, and the rash guards will make your child an eco-activist with its saying “make the sea plastic-free”! The fabric dries very quickly and provides UPF 50 sun protection. 

Mon Coeur’s swimwear is ethically made in Portugal, and all the yarns used in the production process received the Global Recycled Standard certification. 

Everything the brand sells is made with recycled and upcycled materials, right down to the labels, buttons, zippers, hang tags, and embroideries! 

Mon Coeur is a member of 1% For The Planet, and it partners with the 5Gyres Institute, a non-profit organization leading the global movement against plastic pollution.


4. Kampos

❤︎❤︎

Size Range: 4 To 12 Years

Materials: Recycled Nylon, Recycled Polyester

Price Range: $54 - 119

KAMPOS redefines luxury by transforming waste found in the ocean into high-quality swimwear. Its kids’ swimsuits are handcrafted in Italy, and they are available in several solid colors and lovely patterns that will make your child stand out from the crowd. Designed for children aged between 4 and 12 years old, KAMPOS’ swimwear collection consists of swim shorts, bikinis & one-piece suits.

The bikinis feature a classic cut with a triangle bikini top and a tie-side bottom. 

While the boys’ swim shorts are all made with 100% recycled plastic bottles, the girls’ collection is produced using recycled fishing nets and other nylon waste. 

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.


5. Elle Evans

❤︎❤︎

Size Range: 12 Months To 16 Years

Materials: Recycled Nylon, Deadstock Fabric

Price Range: $41 - 61

Elle Evans sells sustainable swimwear for children, from newborns to 16-year-old teens. It has everything from rash tops and bikinis to swimsuits and swim onesies for toddlers. The brand creates all its kids’ swimwear using offcuts from its women’s collection to reduce waste. Not only that but the original fabric is also produced from plastic waste dredged from the sea, like fishing nets, as well as fabric scraps, carpet flooring, and industrial plastic waste from landfills and oceans. 

We also love that Elle Evans chooses to make each piece to order, which means that it is only produced when you buy it. This helps reduce fabric waste to a minimum, and the company even reuses smaller scraps and turns them into frills or straps for other swimsuits!  

Elle Evans works with a digital printer that uses water-based, non-toxic inks and makes sure to never discard inks down the drain. It also ships its products through carbon-neutral couriers.

The company also donates 1% of all its sales to the Healthy Seas Initiative, which is the organization that collects the nylon waste used in Elle Evans’ collections.


6. Turtledove London

❤︎❤︎

Size Range: Newborn To 8 Years

Materials: Recycled Nylon

Price Range: $16 - 36

Turtledove London is an ethical clothing brand on a mission to make organic unisex clothes for our children. It has a small collection of swim shorts, one-piece swimsuits, rash guards and surf suits, all of which are both comfortable and stylish. 

The company purposefully creates gender-neutral pieces to increase their likelihood of being passed down to several children down the line.

It is also why all the pieces have timeless styles and a simple color palette. 

Turtledove London makes its swimwear with recycled nylon and eco-friendly, azo-free dyes. The fabric is made to last and provides UPF 50+ protection against harmful sun rays. Once they are produced, the swimsuits are packed in compostable bags made of cornstarch and sent to you in paper mailing bags and boxes. 

The company’s pieces are all made in factories that are SEDEX-certified and members of the Ethical Trading Initiative, which ensures workers in the supply chain are treated fairly. Turtledove London was also a finalist in the Drapers Sustainable Fashion Awards in 2021!


7. August Society

❤︎

Size Range: 24 Months To 10 Years

Materials: Recycled Polyester, Recycled Nylon

Price Range: $22 - 57

August Society creates flattering, eco-friendly swimsuits for each member of the family. If you are looking for sustainably made swimwear for your kids, this is probably the brand offering the most options on this list!

Its kids’ swimsuits are comfy, high-quality and timeless pieces that your children will be able to wear all summer long.

They feature one-of-a-kind, unisex prints designed by August Society’s founder, so they can be handed down from brother to sister and from sister to brother. 

You will be able to choose between different styles of one-piece suits, rash guards, bikinis, swim pants, and swim leggings. Some models are even reversible, with one print on one side, and another on the other side.

The brand crafts its swimwear out of recycled polyester and recycled nylon, produced with plastic water bottles, old carpeting and recovered ghost fishing nets. The fabric protects your children from the sun and is designed to last for many years. 

August Society also makes its prints using digital printing methods. The process requires the use of a lot less ink and dye, and the total amount of fabric waste is reduced.


8. Summersalt

Size Range: Newborn To Size 12

Materials: Recycled Nylon, Recycled Polyamide, Recycled Polyester 

Price Range: $30 - 60

Summersalt creates womenswear designed to keep you comfortable and chic while you are on the go.

It has a small collection of kids’ swimsuits, all of which are available in larger sizes for parents as well. 

The brand’s swimwear is sold in different colors and patterns that will remind you of nature, like little nectarines or flowers. The girls’ suits are particularly adorable with their ruffles at the shoulders!

Summersalt makes its kids’ swimwear from recycled polyamide, recycled nylon or recycled polyester, depending on the model. Its recycled materials help divert fishing nets and commercial carpets from landfills by turning them into new products! Plus, the recycled polyamide is certified by the Global Recycled Standard. 

All the swimsuits feature a high-quality, compressive fabric that provides UPF 50+ protection to protect your little ones from harmful sun rays. And if you want them to be even more protected and covered, opt for the brand’s rash guard tankini set! 

Summersalt also ships all its products in poly bags made from recycled materials. 

*we typically wouldn’t recommend this brand as a whole, but we do appreciate their commitment to sustainability for their swimwear line


9. Boden

Size Range: 3 Months To 14 Years 

Materials: Recycled Polyester, Recycled Polyamide, Polyester, Cotton

Price Range: $20 - 56

Boden is a family-run clothing company that has been making beautiful clothes for more than 30 years. It has a very large selection of swimwear for girls and boys up to 14 years, as well as a carefully curated collection for babies and toddlers. 

Each piece is very colorful, and many of them feature fun prints, like rainbows, dinosaurs, penguins, and many more!

You can choose between various styles and sleeve-lengths, and the brand even sells several surf suits. 

While some of Boden’s swimsuits contain polyester or cotton, most of them are made with recycled polyester and recycled polyamide. The company is also transparent about where its clothes are made, and it ships them in 100% recycled and recyclable packaging. 

Boden offers you to send back your well-worn pieces when your kids no longer need them, and it will donate them to a charity that either gives them away or recycles them. 

The brand is also a member of the Ethical Trading Initiative, and it has donated tons of clothes to different charitable organizations around the globe.

*we typically wouldn’t recommend this brand as a whole, but we do appreciate their commitment to sustainability for their swimwear line


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:

 
12 Sustainable Planners & Notebooks for Eco-Friendly Writing 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 world. Thank you for supporting these brands - and us!

The Best Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Planners and Notebooks

Almost one billion trees worth of paper is thrown away in a single year in America, and that’s just in the U.S. Paper waste alone accounts for a quarter of landfill waste, so how do we help? Knowing what to look for when shopping for paper-focused products, like planners and notebooks, and selecting a tree-free paper alternative when possible is a great place to start. 

What does FSC-certified mean?

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification means the wood used to create the product was harvested ethically and responsibly. However, FSC-certified wood only applies to virgin wood, so while the harvesting and forestry process may be more responsible, the products made from the wood still may not be. As always, no label should be trusted blindly. Be sure to research the individual company ethics and policies before deciding if the product you are considering purchasing meets your personal criteria for sustainability.

Does sustainable paper exist?

There are sustainable paper options, some completely tree-free and others that at least minimize the tree pulp needed. Recycled paper is not tree-free and is typically not 100% post-consumer recycled material. Most recycled paper uses a combination of recycled and virgin tree pulp, so while it is an improvement, don’t be fooled by greenwashing. Companies are required to list the percentage of recycled material in their paper and look for as close to 100% as possible when considering recycled paper. When purchasing a product like planners or notebooks, it may be harder to trace the paper composition. A better sustainable paper option is a fully tree-free material like the increasingly popular stone paper.

What is stone paper?

Stone paper uses ground stone, usually limestone and marble, processed into a smooth paper-like material. The stone fragments are typically sourced from the construction industry, where there is a surplus of leftover stone materials. When ground and processed into paper, it becomes a hydrophobic material that is waterproof and tearproof. It also has a smooth eggshell-like feel that allows pens and pencils to glide smoother than standard paper. Artists love stone paper for its high-quality composition, allowing their designs and drawings to appear richer than traditional paper. Writers love stone paper for its durability. Stone paper manufacturing is also more Earth-friendly as it requires no water or chemicals and uses waste material.

While there is never a perfect solution when it comes to sustainability, there are at least better options and these companies make use of the more sustainable options for planners and notebooks.

our favorite sustainable notebooks & planners:

1. agood Company 

Using stone paper, agood Company offers notebooks, journals, and pocket diaries that are stylish and sustainable. agood Company is B Corp certified and provides a breakdown of the environmental footprint associated with each product and part of its production chain. To be as sustainable as possible, they utilize climate-neutral shipping by compensating for transport, choosing environmentally-friendly raw materials, and packaging all products responsibly. agood Company also created a plant-a-tree initiative with WeForest and a foundation to support sustainability efforts in communities around the globe. For anyone who wants their purchase to go beyond a pretty planner or notebook, agood Company provides a simple, sustainable solution.


2. Karst

Karst wants to disrupt the paper industry, so this company created a tree-free solution, paper made from recycled stone. This makes their paper smooth, tear-resistant, waterproof, and sustainable for our planet. Karst also partners with One Tree Planted and is a certified B Corp company. Notebooks are available lined, dotted, blank or with a grid. The planners are available in weekly or daily formats. Also available are sketchbooks, notepads, and tree-free pencils. Karst is for a notebook aficionado who appreciates thoughtful design.


3. Papier

Created with sustainably sourced paper and using recycled packaging, Papier is known for seasonal collections and unique designs. They often team up with artists to bring their talents to Papier products for products you won’t find anywhere else. The planners are available in a variety of formats from yearly, monthly, daily and academic. The journals are available in classic or specialized formats for recipes, wellness, travel, gratitude, or standard and come lined, plain or specific for list-makers. Papier is perfect if you are looking for a more sustainable planner or journal that is beautiful inside and out.


4. Dingbats*

At Dingbats*, all materials used for their journals are biodegradable, vegan, and recyclable.

Notebooks feature minimal nature and animal motifs on their faux leather covers and are V-label certified, which means no animal-based adhesives are used in their products.

The inside pages are acid-free, fountain-friendly, FSC-certified paper that lays flat for optimal writing, especially for lefties. Dingbats* offers a simple and minimal selection that puts the Earth and animals first. 


5. Wisdom Supply Co

Created by two women frustrated with the amount of plastic and waste on the planet, especially associated with school supplies. Wisdom Supply Co makes fully recyclable notebooks and planners that are zero waste and made in the USA. As a certified B Corp, sustainable practices are upheld throughout production, and all orders are shipped plastic-free. Also available are zero waste binders, folders, dividers, and planners made with students and teachers in mind. So if you love back-to-school shopping but want to do it more sustainably, Wisdom Supply Co is a great place to start!


6. Five Minute Journal

Transform your life with the Five Minute Journal. Spending just five minutes a day practicing gratitude can boost positivity, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being, even on the busiest of days. This approach is the simplest and scientifically backed way to a happier you. With the Five Minute Journal, you can practice mindfulness and gratitude journaling, while also taking advantage of additional features that traditional journals do not provide. The journal is made with 100% recycled, compostable and FSC-Certified paper and bound in linen fabric.

Five Minute Journal is available for iOS and Android, as well.


7. Green Dreamer

Currently offering physical and digital planning options, Green Dreamer combines mindfulness and goalsetting in its planners.

The inside planner pages are made of recycled paper and feature a hardcover that is bound by recycled kraft paper.

You can also add an optional book cloth cover that is made from 100% recycled cotton.

While Green Dreamer is phasing out the physical planners, you will still be able to purchase the planner template to download.

The template features a minimalist and versatile design using undated monthly and weekly formats, and it even includes important social and eco-awareness dates. In addition, green Dreamer is a cost-effective option as their digital download is less expensive than traditional planners, and you can print it on your own sustainably-made paper.


8. Gitchi Adventure Goods

If you or someone you know is always in search of their next adventure, Gitchi Adventure Goods makes journals to keep track of it all.

A small notebook made in the USA that will easily fit in a backpack so you can keep it with you on the go.

Gitchi Adventure notebooks are made with 100% post-consumer recycled paper that is FSC® and Green Seal® Certified and made with 100% renewable electricity. 


Digital Planners and Notebooks

For all the digital planners and writers, there are some digital planning and notebook options created with you in mind.

1. reMarkable

reMarkable is as close to a digital notebook as it gets.

The creators of reMarkable had one goal, to create the best paper-like experience possible with the limitless connection that modern technology provides.

With reMarkable, your handwritten notes can be converted into text that syncs to your cloud, phone, or laptop. It is the thinnest tablet available, so you have a similar pencil-on-paper experience.

Since reMarkable was made for writing, it doesn’t come with the typical distractions regular tablets do, so you stay focused and organized. No trees are required, and your writing or planning experience is as close as it can get to using a traditional notebook.


2. Notion

If you type notion in on YouTube, you’ll have a plethora of ways to customize this digital workspace.

You can use it as a planner, project manager, or journal; it is used by large companies and students alike to keep organized and capture thoughts. Digital planners love Notion because you can add custom templates, habit tracking, digital stickers and make it look and feel just like a regular planner. Notion is available for iOS, Android, and desktop.


3. GoodNotes

If you dive into the digital note-keeping and planning space, chances are you’ve heard of GoodNotes.

An app that allows you to use your iPad as a journal and planner.

You can add as many notebooks as you want, all stored in one spot and synced with the cloud.

While only available for iPad users, it is a powerhouse app if you already have access to an iPad or Mac. 


4. DayOne

If you’ve always wanted to be a journaler but never stuck with it, DayOne is for you!

Keep your thoughts and experiences together with text, audio, photo, and video all in one place.

Elegant and easy to navigate, DayOne allows you to maintain ownership of your data, keeps it safe and encrypted for you, and you can access it on any device.

DayOne is available for iOS, Android, and desktop.


About the Author

Karmen Flores is a creative entrepreneur based in Michigan. Karmen shares all about plant-based and sustainable, intentional living on her blog Karmen Collective. From recommendations for all things plant-based to tips for living more sustainably, Karmen makes living with intention less intimidating and more accessible. You can connect with Karmen on Instagram @karmencollective and at www.karmencollective.com.


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12 Sustainable Vegan Leather Alternatives You Need to Know in 2024
 

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Sustainable Vegan Leathers

As a textile enthusiast, I get very excited about writing posts like these. I am fascinated by the innovation that goes into creating new sustainable fabrics. It's amazing how some of the fibers listed here can be derived from unexpected sources like apples and pineapples.

Why Vegan Leather?

Animal-derived leather production has been linked to several ethical and environmental issues, including animal exploitation and slaughter, deforestation, inefficient land use, biodiversity destruction, significant greenhouse gas emissions, tannery pollution and worker’s rights issues across the supply chain. Before discussing leather alternatives, it is important to understand why there is a need for alternative materials. According to industry data, a Brazilian leather handbag can result in as much as 1,000 square meters of once biodiverse land being cleared for production. Similarly, a cow skin leather bag of the same size can have a carbon equivalent footprint of over 100kg and a water footprint of over 17,100 liters. While leather has been used for centuries to make shoes, bags, and clothes, the fashion industry is now evolving beyond animal-derived materials.

We also made a conscious decision to exclude some of the plastic alternatives like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyurethane (PU), which are sometimes marketed as sustainable because they are vegan. While PU is better than PVC, it's still plastic and does not last long. Some of the leathers mentioned below may contain a small amount of PU, but we still believe that they represent a significant step in the right direction. We want to emphasize that nothing is perfect, but these textiles are quite exciting!

Our Favorite Vegan Leather Alternatives:

Image: Veerah Apple Peel Heels (use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC10 for 10% off your entire purchase)

1. Apple Leather

Apple leather is a type of bio-based material that is made using apple by-products from the juice industry. When apples are pressed to create juice, the leftover apple pomace and peels contain a high amount of cellulose content, which makes them ideal for producing new fabrics.

To make apple leather, the apple pomace is reduced to a powder and then combined with a synthetic material called polyurethane. This process results in a soft and durable material that has a much lower environmental impact compared to cowhide leather.

Apple leather is commonly used to make shoes and small accessories like wallets or handbags.


2. Cactus Leather

Cacti are incredible plants that have many benefits for the environment. They help to regenerate soil, prevent soil erosion and desertification, and even absorb carbon dioxide. But did you know that cacti can also be used to create sustainable fabrics? In Mexico, a type of cactus leather is being developed using the Opuntia Cactus, also known as Nopal. The process is sustainable and no cacti are harmed in the making of this leather. Only mature leaves are harvested, and cacti require very little water to grow, making artificial irrigation and pesticides unnecessary. After the leaves are harvested, they are mashed and dried for several days before being mixed with non-toxic chemicals and attached to a backing.

Brands Using Cactus Leather: Allégorie, Poppy Barley and Lo & Sons


3. Cork Leather

Cork is one of the most popular vegan leathers available today. Although not all cork products are of the same quality, many eco-friendly brands source their cork from Portugal, which is known for producing high-quality cork. Interestingly, a cork oak tree can produce up to 18 harvests of bark during its lifetime, which makes it a renewable material. This harvesting process does not disrupt the tree's natural lifecycle. Cork leather is not only recyclable, but also lightweight, water-resistant, and durable. Additionally, it can be easily dyed, cut, and sewn, which allows for a wide variety of products to be made using this material.


4. Leaf Leather

Leaf leather is one of the most affordable types of vegan leather available. Although it doesn't possess the traditional leather appearance, it does have a unique, natural look to it which is hard to replicate in fashion. This type of leather is made from sustainably harvested Teak leaves which are all fallen, so no trees are harmed. The leaves are soaked, dyed, and arranged flat before being set out to dry and mended with cotton fabric. Beautiful colors can be achieved with leaf leather, ranging from green to red to beige to purple. To strengthen the fabric for sewing, a thin BOPP film is used, which is non-toxic.


5. Mango Leather

Did you know that over 30% of mangos are wasted during harvesting and transportation, while another 7% can be wasted in supermarkets? Allégorie has partnered with supermarkets to collect discarded mangos, which are then shredded into a smoothie-like substance and processed into sheets using eco-friendly methods. The material is transformed into a leather-like substance using a water-based PU as a binding agent. After being colored and waterproofed, Mango Leather looks incredibly similar to conventional leather. It's amazing how this innovative process can repurpose unwanted fruit and provide a sustainable alternative to traditional leather!


6. Pineapple Leather

Pineapple leather, or Piñatex, is an innovative natural textile made from pineapple leaf fiber, which is an agricultural waste product. When pineapples are harvested, their leaves are collected and the long fibers are extracted using specialized machines. These fibers are then washed, purified, and processed to remove impurities. The remaining fluffy pineapple leaf fiber is mixed with a corn-based polylactic acid and transformed into a non-woven mesh called Piñafelt. To make it even more durable and waterproof, the Piñafelt is colored using GOTS-certified pigments and coated with a resin made of polyurethane.

Piñatex has been adopted by over 1,000 brands, including Nae & Svala, and the company that creates it, Ananas Anam, is a certified B Corporation.


7. Mirum

MIRUM is a revolutionary material that closely resembles leather but is entirely plastic-free. It is certified by the USDA’s biopreferred program to be made of 100% bio-content and does not use any plastic in its production. MIRUM is made entirely of natural materials that can be recycled once the material has reached the end of its life as a bag, shoe, or belt. The material is created using abundant plant matter and upcycled agricultural side streams instead of primary products, similar to how Piñatex uses pineapple plant leaves rather than the fruit itself. This process makes the material environmentally friendly, efficient, and renewable.


8. Vegea

Vegea, which is also known as wine leather, is a unique fabric made from leftover grape skins, vegetable oils, and natural fibers from the agroindustry. It is estimated that for every 10 liters of wine produced, 2.5 liters of waste are generated. However, this waste can be upcycled into one square meter of wine leather! To produce Vegea, the grape marc (which consists of grape skins, stalks, and seeds) must first be dried. After this step, it is combined with vegetable oil and water-based polyurethane to create a bio-based material that is coated into a fabric. The production process does not involve any toxic chemicals, dangerous solvents, or heavy metals, making it safe and eco-friendly.


Here are a few vegan leathers that are very exciting, but unfortunately, have not gained a lot of popularity among sustainable brands, yet. We’re sure we will find many brands using these options in the near future!

  • Biofabricated Leather: These leathers are just absolutely fascinating, and created in a lab. Learn all about these incredible textiles at Modern Meadow.

  • Coconut Leather: Durable, Compostable, Water Resistant, Moldable & Flexible, Range of Thicknesses. Created by Malai

  • Coffee Leather: Over 99% of coffee goes to waste, so why not do something useful with all the leftovers (besides body scrubs)? Created by Alice Genberg

  • Mushroom Leather: We hear a lot of buzz around this one! It’s probably the one we’re most interested in getting our hands on, but it’s almost impossible. Created by Bolt Threads

Do you have a favorite vegan leather product you use?

We would love to hear all about in the comments below!


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The Best Sustainable & Organic Cotton Bath Mats

It’s time to upgrade your bathroom with an organic bath mat and indulge in the ultimate combination of luxury and sustainability! In this guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to choose the perfect sustainable bath mat that will complement your bathroom.

Why Choose an Organic Bath Mat?

Most bath mats available today are made from synthetic materials, which are essentially plastic. Washing these bath mats can release thousands of microplastics into the environment, causing harm to the planet. Even traditional bath mats made from conventional cotton can be detrimental to the environment.

Organic cotton is a much better alternative to regular cotton. It is produced and certified to organic agricultural standards, which helps maintain the health of soils, ecosystems and people by using natural processes instead of artificial inputs. The most significant benefit of organic cotton farming is that it doesn't allow the use of toxic chemicals or GMOs (genetically modified organisms).

Switching to organic cotton can save up to 91% of the water needed to grow crops, emit 46% fewer greenhouse gases, and give farmers more control as they don't need to purchase expensive genetically modified seeds from a few big companies. Currently, only about 1% of all cotton produced is organic, so we need more people to choose organic cotton instead of traditional cotton to support a more sustainable option.

side note: we included two options not made from *organic cotton that are still sustainably sourced and handwoven by artisans!

Our Top Picks for Organic Bath Mats:

1. Under the Canopy

Price: $14 - 30

Under the Canopy offers a great selection of organic cotton bath mats, one of which is even made with a blend of hemp. They've been catering to conscious consumers since the beginning, providing them with high-quality, organic, and fair products. Their organic cotton products are some of the most affordable on the market. They comply with many different certifications, including FAIR TRADE, GOTS, OEKO-TEX, C2C, RCS, and FSC.


2. Grund

Price: $40 - 72

Grund offers three different styles of organic bath mats, available in multiple colors and sizes.

Two of the mats are made entirely of organic cotton, while the third features a non-slip rubber backing.

We appreciate that Grund provides organic bath runners (great for longer bathrooms), which can often be challenging to find elsewhere. Plus, all of their bath mats - including the non-slip - are machine washable.


3. Pottery Barn

Price: $34 - 55

Pottery Barn, although not the most eco-friendly brand, has made significant strides in minimizing its environmental impact over the years. If you're a fan of this company, you'll be pleased to know that they offer some fantastic organic cotton bath mats! Take a look at this lovely scalloped edge option. Pottery Barn's 100% GOTS organic cotton bath mats are made in a Fair Trade Certified™ factory, thereby empowering the workers who produced them.


4. West Elm

Price: $39-59

If you are searching for prints and colors that are fun and sustainable, we have found a great option for you! West Elm has been actively offering more organic and eco-friendly products in recent years.

While browsing their website, be sure to check for the categories under each product that indicate whether it is 'Organic', 'Handcrafted', or 'Fair Trade'. Any of these options would be a fantastic sustainable choice!


5. Coyuchi

Price: $38 - 98

Coyuchi offers a wide range of high-quality organic cotton home textiles including a fantastic selection of organic bath mats available. Their cotton is certified by GOTS, Fair Trade, and MADE SAFE, ensuring that it is non-toxic, sustainable, and ethically produced. As a member of 1% For The Planet, Coyuchi works with factories that recycle 98% of their wastewater. In addition, they are a partner of the Chetna Coalition, which supports sustainable farming communities in India.


6. Kiliim

Price: $69 - 135

These bath mats are not certified as ‘organic’, but they are handmade with cotton using traditional kilim weaving techniques by artisans in Fowwa, a small village near the Nile Delta in Egypt.

Kiliim, a socially responsible enterprise based in Egypt, specializes in creating sustainable rugs with stunning and colorful designs. These particular bath mats are crafted from high-quality cotton and dyed with care.


7. Minna

Price: $200

MINNA is a business that works with artisans in Mexico and Guatemala. Their aim is to provide ethically made products with modern designs. On their website, you can find detailed information about the people they work with, so you know exactly where the items come from. The Steps Mat is one of their products inspired by architect Luis Barragan. It's a handwoven cotton mat with a looped weave, which creates a cozy texture for stepping and standing. It's perfect to use as a bath mat or in front of the kitchen sink!


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