50+ products to make your life easier and our planet cleaner

Function of Beauty Wavy Hair Shampoo

Trying to find hair care products that are sustainable, not tested on animals, affordable and actually work can seem like a huge task. Thankfully, my search stopped when I came across Function of Beauty. You can get salon-worthy hair for 10 bucks and feel good about your purchase because the products are 96% naturally derived. I love that the brand offers customization depending on your type of hair and if you want to add shine, length, strength, anti-frizz or curl definition. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

Botnia Balancing Oil Cleanser

This balancing oil cleanser from Botnia is my new skin care secret weapon. It has recyclable and compostable packaging, is cruelty-free and uses clean ingredients. It leaves your face feeling fresh and clean, and you don’t even have to use a lot of product to get all of the great benefits. Definitely a great sustainable swap for your current cleanser. — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator

Ethique Solid Shampoo

In the beauty industry, there’s a perceived crossroads where sustainable products and effective products diverge, but Ethique is a brand that’s been showing how the two lanes can merge seamlessly. The zero-waste shampoo and conditioner bars are some of my favorite hair care products I’ve come across in the past few years. They lather, cleanse and treat my hair even better than some of the traditional shampoos and conditioners I’ve tried. — Sophie Shaw, fashion and beauty editor

Hey Humans Natural Deodorant in Rosewater Ginger, 4-Pack

I recently switched to Hey Humans Natural Deodorant in Rosewater Ginger, and it offers the same odor protection as any other deodorant on the market but is better for your body and the planet. It’s made from 99% plastic-free packaging and is also clean, vegan and cruelty-free. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

Saltyface Complete Tanning Set

I love to self-tan, but I hate that almost every “viral” brand I’ve tried comes in a single-use plastic bottle. After lots of trial and error, I finally found a tanner that doesn’t make me look orange and comes in a gorgeous, refillable amber glass bottle. The Saltyface set is also accompanied by an aluminum foaming lid and face and body brushes with vegan bristles that are fully recyclable. It may be pricey, but investing in a quality product that helps reduce your carbon footprint while you’re at it is worth it. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social

Everist Hair and Skin Hydration Essentials

Everist wants to do away with the single-use plastic that bath and body products usually come in, so instead, the company makes concentrated shampoo, conditioner and body wash formulas that cut back on waste in more ways than one. The plant-based paste formulas are made without water, and each of the aluminum tubes comes with a key that helps you dispense every drop of product. When you’re done, the tubes can be recycled and the plastic caps can be sent back to Everist to participate in the brand’s Cap Back Program. — Sophie Shaw, fashion and beauty editor

Before Classic Anti-Cavity Toothpaste

I’ve been on a mission to swap out my normal drugstore toothpaste for an all-natural version that still fights cavities but is gentle on my teeth — and the environment. Before’s toothpaste checks all of those boxes. The brand is also on a sustainable mission with the first plant-based tubes and donations toward environmental initiatives. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

Lush Outback Mate Soap

When I think of Lush, I automatically think of colorful bath bombs and cruelty-free products. I’ve been obsessed with the brand’s soap for years now, and this refreshing mint and eucalyptus blend is one of my favorites. I love the citrus oils infused in this bar, and I feel even better using it knowing it’s made with natural and 95% vegan product, with thoughtfully sourced raw materials. — Carolina Gazal, associate testing writer 

Terra Ties

I was excited to learn about an eco-friendly alternative to the standard hair elastic, especially since they have a habit of disappearing and you never really know where they end up. Terra Ties are 100% biodegradable, and if you think that means they sacrifice performance for eco-friendly materials, they absolutely don’t. The organic cotton and rubber elastics are perfectly sturdy and stretchy. — Sophie Shaw, fashion and beauty editor

Palmless Nourishing Oil

You could ask just about everyone in my life and they’ll agree that I’ve given them a spiel about how terrible palm oil is for the environment. I was so excited to come across Palmless and the brand’s no-bull approach to saving the rainforest. This multiuse palm oil alternative is incredibly nourishing for hair, face and body. It smells incredible and instantly quenches dry skin. Plus, for every bottle purchased, one tree is planted in Indonesia, a place where the palm oil industry has done serious damage. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

HiBAR Shampoo and Conditioner Set

Avoiding plastic is tough, especially with all the soaps, cleansers and skin and hair care in my daily routine. In an effort to cut back, I swapped my plastic shampoo and conditioner bottles for these bars. These last me just as long as the bottles and cost about the same. Plus, this way I know I’m getting every ounce of product possible, down to the very final suds, and I keep unnecessary plastic out of my bins. — Jillian Tracy, associate editor

Caliray Come Hell or High Water Tubing Mascara

After a constant battle with dark smudges around my eyes, I started exclusively using tubing mascaras last year, and now there’s no going back. My current favorite is Caliray’s formula, which adds volume and manages to keep my very straight lashes lifted (after curling, of course). Even better, the brand is transparent about its sustainability efforts throughout the line, and the [mascara tube] is made from 100% recycled ocean plastic. — Sophie Shaw, fashion and beauty editor

Ella + Mila Nail Polish

While there are a few eco-friendly nail polish brands out there, Ella + Mila is the first one I found that kept the integrity of a great coat of polish but removed all of the gross junk from its formula. Crafted without formaldehyde, animal-derived ingredients, parabens and 14 other harmful chemicals, the color lasts forever and chipping is no issue. I’ll gladly pay a few extra bucks for this brand knowing it’s a little better for my nails. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket

I adore Rumpl’s puffy blankets because they’re so warm and cozy. The designs are great, and they’re made with a tear-resistant material that makes it the perfect blanket to take to the backyard, camp, the park or anywhere else. Oh, and each Original Puffy is made from 60 recycled plastic bottles. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor

Read our review

Kammok Roo Double Camping Hammock

I’m a huge hammock fan. Whether I’m on my patio, in a park or at a campsite, I always have a hammock handy. If the sun’s out, I want to be in a hammock. I’ve been an Eno fan for years, but I finally tried Kammok’s hammocks and instantly fell in love. They’re lighter in weight but stronger, thanks to the brand’s amazing 100% recycled, bluesign-approved fabric. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor

Iron Flask 22-Ounce Water Bottle

I’ve used a few different metal water bottles over the years, but the Iron Flask has been in permanent rotation ever since I got one. Its straw lid makes it easy to grab a quick sip of water when I’m at my desk or shooting hoops, and my 22-ounce model provides an ample amount of hydration on the go (not to mention ample room for the many, many stickers I’ve slapped onto it).— Mike Andronico, senior tech editor

Hydro Flask 20-Ounce Wide-Mouth Water Bottle

I don’t think I’ve bought a single plastic water bottle since buying this Hydro Flask. It holds a ton of water, so it’ll last me all day, and it’s super easy to clean too. I take it with me everywhere I go! — Tyler Holender, social strategist

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Takeya 64-Ounce Motivational Tritan Bottle

Not only can this GIANT water bottle, which holds 64 ounces, get me through an entire day without getting up to refill (or ever buy another bottle of spring water), but Takeya’s products have helped eliminate over 12 billion single-use plastic bottles. Plus, I get to “Hydrate & Celebrate” every night at 8 p.m. What a perk! — Tobey Grumet Segal, health, fitness and food editor

Nomadix Bandana Towel

I’ve been enjoying Nomadix’s lightweight, ultra-absorbent and quick-drying towels for a while, but the one I’ve fallen the most in love with is the Bandana Towel. It’s super tiny and can be folded down so small it could easily fit in your pocket. I love keeping it on hand to use during workouts or on hikes to wipe sweat away. The best thing about it? It’s made from 88% postconsumer recycled polyester. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor

Stojo Collapsible Water Bottle

When I swore off single-use plastic in 2020, this water bottle from Stojo became my go-to! It’s made of LFGB-certified silicone, holds a whopping 20 ounces of water when full and comes with an airtight, screw-on cap that literally never leaks. The coolest part, though, is that it’s collapsible, so it can shrink down in size and lie flat when you’re working with limited space. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social

Comrad Recycled Cotton Compression Socks

Compression socks have become a staple in my life. Whether on long flights or just sitting at my desk all day, they are a great addition to help minimize swelling and improve circulation. Comrad’s recycled cotton versions are just as amazing as the brand’s regular socks. They’re super comfortable and come in a variety of colors. I definitely recommend them for anyone who stands or sits all day. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

Allbirds Men’s Tree Dasher 2

Allbirds has been a popular and innovative brand in the eco-friendly shoe scene for years now and for good reason. The brand makes sneakers that are much better for the Earth than traditional kicks, plus they’re super comfortable and look good too. I got a pair of Tree Dashers last year and wear them when I go for runs or when I just want a plush, cozy sneaker to walk around town in. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor

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Baggu Nylon Shoulder Bag

My new go-to work bag, this cute Baggu piece, is roomy enough to fit my 13-inch laptop, charger, compact umbrella and more. It’s made out of recycled nylon that feels durable enough to carry my essentials and withstand the daily strains of toting it around the city. The strap is also adjustable and long enough that I can even wear it crossbody. — Sophie Shaw, fashion and beauty editor

Lo & Sons Rockwood Upcycled Patchwork Tote

Lo & Sons is transforming damaged and returned products into unique, durable and versatile tote bags that are perfect for your daily commute or traveling. These bags in particular are 100% handmade and hand-numbered. My other favorite product is the brand’s do-it-all tote, the Catalina Deluxe, which is made from recycled plastic bottles. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

Outerknown Blanket Shirt

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After researching and reporting on sustainable fashion brands, two of the experts I talked to recommended Outerknown. I had never heard of it before, but I finally got around to trying some of Outerknown’s clothes, and I am beyond impressed. My favorite piece so far is its famous Blanket Shirt, which is a heavy flannel made from 100% organic cotton. It feels incredibly well made, extremely cozy and by far my favorite flannel. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor

Koraru Chikyi Belted One-Piece Swimsuit

This is hands down the most beautiful, high-quality piece of swimwear I own. It features a backless design, a matching belt and built-in padding, and overall it’s just super flattering and really sucks everything in while still allowing some stretch! This piece is constructed of recycled materials, such as fishing nets, and comes in a box made of reused algae from areas where too much would otherwise harm the fragile ocean ecosystem. Also, I love that the brand donates a portion of its sales to The Coral Reef Alliance. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social

Pact Dresses

Pact, dubbed “Earth’s Favorite” clothing, is my newfound favorite apparel company after a very well-placed targeted Instagram ad piqued my interest. Pact is transparent about where its material comes from as well as the brand’s sustainability efforts. If for some reason none of that matters to you, Pact’s clothes are incredibly versatile and well made. Plus, the prices are much lower than most organic and fair trade brands out there. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

Anthurium Moss Ball Kokedamas

What could be more sustainable than plants? If you lack a green thumb like I do, I’d love to introduce you to Moss Ball Kokedamas from the brand Kazumi Garden. These gorgeous handmade living works of art add a pop of color to your home and also make great gifts. The plants are locally sourced, and the moss is sustainably obtained and never toxic. They are incredibly easy to care for and can last years. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

Tushy Classic 3.0 Bidet Attachment

I’ve gone long about how much I love Tushy’s affordable bidets, but in short, they’re life-changing. It’s my most recommended product to every person around me whose toilets I frequent (or not), and it does legitimately help save you from buying so much toilet paper. We named this one the best bidet attachment of the year largely because of how easy it is to install, its simple design and its easily adjustable water pressure. — Rachel Lubitz, former senior lifestyle editor

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WoolAid Adhesive Bandages

Unlike other adhesive bandages, WoolAids are made with merino wool rather than plastic. Not only will a WoolAid biodegrade in four months, but while it’s on, the skin and wound underneath can breathe and thus stay dry rather than getting that unpleasant soggy feeling. They also come in colors like blue and gray instead of attempting to match any kind of “flesh” tone, and they stay on forever. — Rena Behar, copy editor

Baggu Standard Baggu

Saying goodbye to single-use plastics at the grocery store is an easy way to become more environmentally sound. I love my Baggu bag for trips to the grocery store — or Target or CVS or Sephora — because it can fit pretty much everything I buy in one bag and be carried like a tote over my shoulder. Plus, it holds up to 50 pounds, so it’s reliably sturdy. Perhaps best of all, it folds into its own flat pouch for easy storage out of the way. — Emily McNutt, former senior travel editor

Floofah for the Kitchen

I have always hated plastic loofahs, but I have never found a great alternative. That’s until I stumbled upon Floofah. Usually you’d have to choose between eco-friendly, zero-waste or affordable, but I love that I can get all of that and a great multiuse sponge (it’s great in the kitchen too!) for less than $10. Plus, every purchase helps someone in need. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

Lumira No. 352 Leather and Cedar Candle

Finding a good, quality candle can be difficult especially since there are so many options out there. But ever since I came across Lumira’s candles, I can never go back to just using any old brand. The glass packing is 100% recyclable, so once your candle goes through its 80 hours of burn time, (yes, it lasts forever) you can repurpose it! The candle is also made from all-natural ingredients and is cruelty-free and sustainably sourced. Once you try one out, you’ll just have to get them all! — Gabriella Triolo, social coordinator.

Origen Vodka

It makes absolute sense that this naturally pink-hued specialty vodka from Origen Holistic Spirits was founded by none other than sustainability warrior Woody Harrelson. Not only is it distilled from the all-natural extracts of elderberry, muscadine grape, green tea and artichoke but it also eschews artificial flavors, colors and additives, all while boasting absolutely no GMOs. — Tobey Grumet Segal, health, fitness and food editor

Net Zero Co. Bamboo Cotton Rounds

Substituting reusable makeup remover pads for disposable ones is one of the easiest ways I’ve cut down on unnecessary waste over the past year. These are soft and easy to clean, and they come with a storage pouch to keep things organized. — Sophie Shaw, fashion and beauty editor

Caraway Food Storage Set

I love using storage containers, specifically this nontoxic, nonstick 14-piece set from Caraway. Not only does it preserve the life of my lunch or dinner leftovers, but it’s a great alternative to single-use plastic wrap or tin foil. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social

Bee’s Wrap Reusable Beeswax Food Wraps

These Bee’s Wrap wraps took a bit of getting used to, but once I learned how to properly use them (warm them up and mold them a bit first with the heat from your hands), they quickly became one of my kitchen staples. I use far less single-use plastic (plastic wrap, plastic baggies, etc.) and foil, thanks to this product. It’s super easy to wash and reuse, and it keeps food fresh the same way plastic wrap might. — Hayley Saltzman, former head of social

Geiserailie Swedish Dishcloths, 6-Pack

If you’re a regular Underscored reader, you know how much we love our Swedish dishcloths, and these ones, gifted to me by my mom, have made my kitchen both cuter and more eco-friendly. With an array of cat-related designs, my mom actually took three for herself, and I can’t blame her. They’re excellent at soaking up messes and can be thrown right into the washing machine after heavy use. I’m already planning on buying more. — Rachel Lubitz, former senior lifestyle editor

Dropps Odor and Stain Laundry Detergent Pods

I’ll never go back to regular laundry detergent after using Dropps. You may think that natural plant-based products don’t clean as well as chemicals, but you’d be wrong. Dropps gets out any and every stain and eliminates odors. The brand also uses 100% carbon-neutral shipping and recyclable packaging, and the pods don’t contribute to microplastic pollution. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

Package Free Airtight Stainless Steel Container

I’ve had this super-sturdy, airtight and leakproof container for years and absolutely love it. Whenever I have leftovers to store, this is the first container I reach for because it keeps food so fresh. I especially love that it’s actually leakproof; you could use it as a lunch container and take soup to the office without a worry. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor

Tony’s Chocolonely Milk Chocolate, 3-Pack

I discovered this chocolate within the past year, and it is SO GOOD. The fun branding is obviously a huge draw (the colors! The name! The funky shape of the chocolate bar when you break it up into pieces!), but the flavor combos and the high-quality chocolate are what keep me recommending it to everyone I know. I just learned that on top of all of its other merits, Tony’s is also eco-friendly, using 100% traceable beans and sustainable practices. Yes, please! — Hayley Saltzman, former head of social

Save Trees Bamboo Paper towels

I made the switch to Save Trees’ paper towels a couple of months ago, and I haven’t looked back since. Each roll comes with 150 100% bamboo sheets and is delivered to your doorstep in two-, three- or four-month increments in a totally plastic-free, recyclable and compostable box. Not only are they good for the planet (and you!) but I swear they’re just as soft, strong and absorbent as “regular” paper towels. — Stephanie Griffin, director of social

Save Trees Bamboo Toilet Paper

I hadn’t tried eco-friendly toilet paper until recently, but I’m happy to say it does not disappoint! Save Trees’ toilet paper is made of 100% bamboo, and each roll comes with 350 sheets. Delivered to your doorstep in a box made of totally recycled content, this paper is super soft, scent- and lint-free and, best of all, tree-free! — Stephanie Griffin, director of social

Explorer The Classic Cold Brew Concentrate

I was never much of a coffee drinker and thought the whole process was quite wasteful. I recently discovered Explorer Cold Brew Co. and am now addicted. The coffee comes in recyclable glass bottles, and even more importantly, the company is transparent about the growing process and the coffee is fair trade and ethically sourced. To get even more sustainable, Explorer’s warehouse is just 2 miles from my apartment, lowering my carbon footprint. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

Longzon Silicone Stretch Lids, 14-Pack

Say goodbye to single-use [plastic] wrap or aluminum foil when you’re storing leftovers. This 14-pack of stretchy silicone lids in varying sizes will keep your food tasting fresh. They’re made of a thick silicone, so they won’t rip, and there are enough sizes in this 14-pack for pretty much any dish. After you’re ready to eat your leftovers, you can plop these lids right into the dishwasher and use again next time. — Emily McNutt, former senior travel editor

Flamingo Estate Euphoria Jasmine and Rose Hand Soap

If you’re tired of Aesop, try Flamingo Estate. The brand hand-harvests ingredients from its namesake homestead and farm in Los Angeles and its partners worldwide, which are used in a variety of pantry and bath products. I’m a big fan of its bath and body products, like this earthy, natural hand soap. I’ve gone through a couple bottles (they last for months, by the way) and love that I can easily rinse out the aluminum bottle and chuck it in the recycling bin when I’m done, and then swap the pump to a new bottle. — Sophie Shaw, fashion and beauty editor

Stasher Stand-Up Mega Bag

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Using and throwing away normal plastic bags is so wasteful, which is why I made the switch to reusable Stasher Bags. We have a full review on them here, but I love their ability to store anything and everything, whether that’s leftovers, snacks or groceries. I love the Stand-Up Mega Bag in particular because it fits a ton and I can pop fresh popcorn in it for a zero-waste movie night. — Kai Burkhardt, outdoors, sustainable living and pets editor

Lotus Trolley Bag, Set of 4

The Lotus Trolley Bags are a complete game changer because they come with support rods to use in your cart, making shopping and checking out a breeze. There’s also an insulated bag so you can keep frozen and cold items chilly from the store to your home. Every single time I go grocery shopping, someone asks me about them and orders them while we’re in an aisle. — Lindsey Smith, newsletter editor

Nette Sunday Chess Candle

I probably have around 20 candles in my apartment, but this is my absolute favorite one. I keep the Nette Sunday Chess candle on my coffee table, and I burn it whenever I want to feel extra cozy. Nette donates 1% of its annual revenue to environmental causes, it plants a tree for every single purchase made on its site and it offsets the carbon footprint associated with the production and shipping of each product. — Hayley Saltzman, former head of social

Prepd Cheat Sheets

This makes cooking so easy. I can put veggies and meat in for different amounts of time without taking a whole tray out! Plus, I use way less tinfoil and can throw these right in the dishwasher. — Hannah Lauson, senior digital content strategist

Kokulu Daily Eight Tote Bag

Made from eight recycled plastic water bottles, these tote bags from Kokolu are as sustainable as they are cute. I have the limited-edition Lavender and earthy green colors, and they’re both super lightweight and feature an open top, so there’s limitless space to fit everything I need, including my giant emotional support water bottle! — Stephanie Griffin, director of social

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