Stocking Stuffers
We’ve got gifts for every budget, and they are listed in increasing order by price. The most affordable gifts come first, followed by the higher-priced offerings. This list will be updated as I find more unique, thoughtful gifts. Some gifts appear in more than one category.
Zoya Nail Polish: $2-6
I’ve learned that there is no such thing as a truly eco-friendly nail polish, but some are definitely better than others. Zoya is among the less-toxic brands on the market, and it is also among the most affordable. The coverage is great, and it is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes. (aff)
Theo Organic Chocolate Bars: $2.38/ea.
Nothing says “you’re special” quite like chocolate. Organic, Fair Trade chocolate from Theo says “you’re really, really special.” Simply put, Theo believes in making pure, organic sweets and paying their workers and farmers fair wages. I know I’d be happy to open my stocking and find one or two of these. (aff)
Mushroom Kaleidoscope Toy: $4.50
I loved kaleidescopes when I was a child, and I know many kids today would too. These cool mushrooms from Plan Toys are made with organic rubberwood, formaldehyde-free glue and non-toxic, water-based dyes and finishes. Their packaging is recycled and printed with soy and water based inks.(aff)
Bicycle Eco Edition Playing Cards: $4.99
Most families go through a couple of decks of playing cards per year. Make game night greener with these eco-friendly playing cards from Bicycle. The Eco Edition cards and case are fully recyclable and made from sustainably-sourced paper, starch-based laminating and vegetable-based inks. (aff)
Handmade, Recycled Paper Pencils: $6-12/set
If you’ve got kids on your list, you know how quickly they go through pencils. These handmade, recycled paper beauties are just nice enough to keep track of at all times. Write with Moxie makes the pencils with rolled layers of 100% recycled colored paper, so as you sharpen, the color changes around the lead.
EcoTools Makeup Accessories: $6-25
Help her replace those outdated, potentially toxic plastic tools with something more sustainable. These makeup brushes and tools are made of renewable, naturally antimicrobial bamboo. NOTE: Also available at Target, Walgreens and other retailers. (aff)
Nostalgia organic soaps & toiletries: $6.50-14
This is one of my personal favorites, and I am a regular customer of this company. If you know anyone (like me) who is obsessed with organic, handmade, luxury soaps, anything that makes them feel pampered, or anything with an awesome fragrance, Nostalgia Organics will be a hit. They’re inexpensive, thoughtful and organic. What more could you ask from a gift?
Recycled Cotton Hats: $7.99-28
Around this time of year, we all need a nice warm hat. These quirky headpieces are all made of recycled cotton and feature everything from sock monkeys and foxes to peace signs and flowers. If you’re really feeling adventurous (and really want the recipient of this gift to stay warm and toasty), stuff the matching fox and raccoon gloves in the stocking too. (aff)
ImagiPLAY Eco YoYo: $9.95
This is an eco-friendly version of a timeless toy that has been around seemingly forever. ImagiPLAY designed this wooden version with an orange tiger on one side and a white tiger on the other. The kids will love finding this in their stocking on Christmas morning! (aff)
Rechargeable batteries & charger: $10-26
Who doesn’t need batteries on Christmas morning? Even if they don’t need them right then, think of these batteries and charger as the gift that keeps on giving. You’ll help them eliminate toxic waste and they’ll love you for it. Plus, you can get these at almost any grocery or convenience store or pharmacy these days. (aff)
To-Go Ware Bamboo Utensils: $13-20
Who among us doesn’t occasionally stop for some take-out? Well, even if you to stop the wasteful habit altogether, you can at least cut back some of that waste. Give a set of To-Go Ware reusable bamboo eating utensils so they can turn down the plastic fork and spoon next time they’re at the drive thru. (aff)
Weleda Body Oil Essentials Kit: $13.43
These fragrant oil mixes from Weleda each are designed for a specific purpose: relaxation, massage, etc. What I love, though, is the fact that this gift is a multitasker. Because each oil comes in its own box, if you have several stockings to fill, you can put one oil in each stocking. (aff)
Kill a Watt EZ: $24.99
At first glance, this might seem like an impersonal gift, but trust me when I say they’ll thank you later. The Kill a Watt EZ Electricity Usage Monitor will assess how efficient gadgets and appliances really are, allowing owners to save money by reducing power consumption. It’s nothing if not practical. (aff)
Zaum Handmade, Organic Coin Purse: $35
These handmade coin purses by Zaum are a little on the pricey side, but the woman or girl on your list will really appreciate it the next time she’s digging around in her handbag for loose change. They’re beautifully made of Mod Green Pod’s gorgeous, high-quality organic fabrics and they’re big enough for coins, bills and credit cards.
MORE GREEN GIFT IDEAS
I’m Jennae Petersen, and I’m a lot of things. A mother, a graphic artist, a connosieur of beautiful interiors and a purveyor of all things design. Green Your Decor was borne of frustration in my attempts to find eco-friendly housewares that were also beautiful, and inspiration to do something to reduce my own carbon footprint and help others do the same in a beautiful way.
