Holiday Gift Guides
Last Minute Shopping Guide!
Holiday Shopping Guide
December 21, 2021
Here are some great last minute gift ideas if you are still shopping! All of these are from local Chicago stores, who offer buy online and in store pickup. Added bonus to support your local small business!
I’ve added links below for both the individual items and to the general site for the featured stores.
Happy Shopping!
Peach Fuzz – Toy Cutting Set
Starting us off with options for the little ones in your lives! This toy cutting set, is 1- adorable and 2- offered from one of the cutest baby/kids stores in Chicago! If you haven’t checked out Peach Fuzz, do it. They are located in Humboldt Park, near the intersection of Chicago and Augusta, and have adorable stuff for the minis in your life.
I’ve linked both the website for their store here, as well as this cute cutting set, perfect for toddlers. It doubles as a puzzle and helps kids learn knife skills in a safe way!
& Studio – Chicago Print
& Studio in Roscoe Village offers some excellent gift options. They are a print and design studio and offer artwork, home goods, jewelry, DIY sets, stationary, etc. They are located on Belmont Ave a little west of Damen.
I’ve linked here this beautiful Chicago print that would make a lovely gift for Chicago residents, or fans of the city anywhere!
Slow Made – Candles
Who doesn’t love a good candle? These from local, Chicago producer, Slow Made, are delightful. I have the Holly one (linked here) at home and it smells just like Christmas! The company also has a commitment to sustainability and use all plant based materials, and plastic free packaging and shipping materials. In addition, they plant a tree for every order they receive!
Collective Resource – Compost Gift Card
Chicago is ripe with compost collection services, which is so great! We’ve features one here that offers gift certificates for service! Bonus points for a (of course local) woman owned business!
Neighborly – Recycled Wine Bottle Glasses
Full disclosure: as I was making this gift guide, I bought myself a set of these. Oops! ‘Tis the season, right?
I love these glasses for several reasons; they are made from recycled wine bottles, USA made in Colorado, and supplied by a great local shop- Neighborly. They have locations in Wicker Park and Lincoln Square, and have tons of great gift options- all from small businesses as well! If you haven’t already, pop in and check them out!
Transit Tees – Flour Sack Hand Towel
These adorable hand towels would make a great gift for anyone living in or who loves Chicago! They have a variety of prints which are all great. I love this skyline interpretation.
The shop, Transit Tees, also offers some great artwork, t-shirts, and other Chicago themed goods.
Hazel – Rose All Day Bundle
Yet another amazing boutique in Chicago, If you haven’t checked out Hazel, do it. They have a great assortment of home goods and gifts!
I’m a Rose all day kinda gal, so this gift set would be right up my alley! Bonus for a reuseable wine tumbler!
For The Guys
Holiday Shopping Guide
December 3, 2021
For that special/hard-to-buy-for man in your life!
Shaver
Yes, I did feature a razor in the stocking stuffer gift guide as well. However, I felt it was worth mentioning another option here, and specifically a “manly” choice 🙂 I bought my husband one of these this year (shhh…don’t tell him) and am excited for him to try it out! Per reviews, it has a bit more of the look and feel of a traditional plastic razor, so maybe a little easier for a guy to handle on his face/neck area. It also comes in a variety of colors, and per all my gift recommendations, is plastic free. Also, the company that makes these, Leaf, will take back your used razors to recycle when finished!
Reuseable Notebook
My husband and I both have one of these, and love them. Rocketbook makes a variety of notebook options, from traditional legal sized to note cards for all your writing needs. Not only can you erase the page and start fresh anytime, but they also have an app. You then scan the QR code on each page you want to retain, and upload a PDF of your work to store on the cloud!
Toothpaste Tablets
Now for the practical part of the men’s gift guide- toothpaste tablets. Again, maybe not the most exciting item your guy will open on Christmas morning, but everyone can always use toothpaste! And sustainable toothpaste? Sign me up! Toothpaste containers are basically impossible to recycle, so why not try out an alternative? I’ve personally tried a few of the options out there- Huppy , featured here, comes in a compostable sleeve, which gets the Refilleri thumbs up!
Man Soap
Have you guys tried anything from The Soap Distillery yet? A few things I love about this company: They are Chicago based (local for us!), woman owned, sustainable packaging, and they are just great products. They make a wide array of soaps depending on your scent preference and are in fun scents dudes are sure to enjoy. They aren’t just for men- there’s plenty of lady style scents as well!
Lastly, if you are local to Chicago, you can skip the shipping and packing materials and pick it up!
The link here will also give you $5 off your order- Happy shopping!
Reuseable Beverage Receptacle
I, of course, have a myriad of reuseable water bottles and coffee mugs at home. Not that makes me an expert, but one of my favorites is from MiiR. I purchased them on sale at my local coffee shop as they give a discount when you fill up, and I have been very pleased with this mug. It’s lightweight but still keeps your drink hot or cold for a long time. I’ve linked here the one that I have and love, but they have SO many options to choose from. Check them out!
Sneakers
Every holiday my husband asks for new shoes. Maybe it’s because he doesn’t buy them for himself that often…so they are always on my radar for every occasion. The company Nothing New produces shoes that are just that- there’s nothing new about them. They are all made from completely recycled/reused materials. They have high and low top options, and would make a great gift for any guy wanting new shoes for the holiday.
Clothing
Last but certainly not least, I want to tell you guys about a company I’m SUPER excited about. It’s called Arms of Andes, and they make all “Leave No Trace” clothing. That’s right. Everything they produce is made from 100% alpaca wool (sustainably sourced from small farmers in Peru) so it’s fully biodegradable in your compost bin! Don’t worry ladies- they make women’s clothing too! Maybe snag yourself something at the same time 🙂
My Picks
Holiday Shopping Guide
December 1, 2021
I’m sure you were probably just sitting around wondering what you get the person who seemingly has every Eco-friendly item imaginable. I’m here to help! Here are a few items that are on my wish list this year. Take it as a shopping guide for that special lady in your life as well 🙂
Fanny Pack
I love me a good fanny pack! I’m currently rockin’ one from Dagne Dover, which is a delight, and I scored on Poshmark last year. (Hello second hand!) But I love this adorable one from Girlfriend Collective.
If you haven’t checked this company out yet, do so. They make all their products from recycled materials, helping to reduce clothing waste around the globe. their ever-expanding collection ranged from workout apparel to outerwear and intimates. And it’s all cute!
Reuseable Bags
Yes, I have tried MANY reuseable ziploc-style bags in my life time. I have also disliked many of them. One of my faves I only recently have had the opportunity to try out is from Stasher. The zip top is easy to use, it holds its structure and is dishwasher friendly. They also have enough oomph to them to not just fall over in the dishwasher and gather a bunch of water and not actually come clean. (Reuseable bag peeps out there will know what I’m talking about.)
Boots
I’ve had these boots on my list for a while. They are so cute and made from 95% recycled materials. Brought to you by Thesus Outdoors, they are water resistant and made in a family run factory in Portugal. Check them out!
Eucalyptus Sheets
Sheets made of bamboo or eucalyptus are Eco-friendly due to the rapidly renewable nature of the crop. Also, they make super soft and comfortable fabric perfect for getting those Zzzzs. The are plenty of options out there for these type of sheets. Linked here is a set from Sheets and Giggles. They are made in the USA and plant a tree for each item purchased!
Lip Balm Gift Set
Even before Oprah put this on her list for this year, I have been wanting to try out the lip balms from Poppy and Pout. They use all natural ingredients and come in a cardboard sleeve to compost when finished. The flavors also sound delightful, and as winter is gets into full swing here in Chicago, I’ll be needing to stock up on the lip moisturizers!
French Market Bag
Speaking of fanny packs, one thing I always have in mine is a compact reuseable shopping bag. It’s so handy to have around for quick impromptu trips to the store. Mine is nearing the end of it’s life, so I’d like to get a new one, and could this one from Zefiro be any cuter? It’s also fully compostable at the end of its life, and added bonus for a Chicago based, woman run business!
Husk Bowl Set
According to their website, Husk started with the idea to have 1 bowl for everything. Whether it’s a classy dinner party or a football chip and dip type gathering, you can use the same bowl for everything. They are perfect for everyday use and come with bamboo lids for storage as well. Additionally, they are compostable,. Don’t have access to a compost facility yourself? Send them back and they will do so for you. Love the concept and love the bowls!
Baby & Kids Gift Ideas
Holiday Shopping Guide
December 1, 2021
Let’s get into some baby and kids gift ideas! I’m by no means an expert on children’s interests, but I do have a 2.5 year old and nieces and nephews of various ages, so I have a little insight on what kids will be into.
There’s some great companies out there developing sustainable products for kids. I’ve suggests some below!
Feel free to comment/post, DM me on Insta if you have other suggestions for Eco-friendly kids gift ideas! Would love to feature some suggestion from our readers as well!
Read below for more info!
Experiences
First and foremost, I’m a HUGE fan of experiences. For years, my husband and I have taken my nieces and nephew out for a special outing of their choosing. Whether it be the arcade or to a paint your own pottery store, they love spending the solo time with Aunti and Uncle and get to do something they choose! It’s a win-win. In the age of over consumerism, I also think it’s a nice way to teach the next generation that spending time with family and friends can be a gift in itself! Lastly, ask any mom and they will 100% say their kids have enough stuff; enough toys, books, etc. So why not change it up this year and take your little one out for a day o’fun?
Having said all that, I do realize that everyone likes to have something under the tree as well and Santa doesn’t generally show up with gift certificates. Therefore, I’ve also compiled some actual gift ideas below 🙂
Eco-Bricks ™
My child has recently gotten VERY into Legos/Duplos, Personally, I think they are great for motor skill development, as well as inspiring creativity. While there are programs out there that will repurpose your old Legos making them closed loop as well, Once Kids has developed compostable bamboo bricks of the same type! They make a standard size (to fit regular Legos) and a plus (which will match up with your Duplos) in both plain and color options. The best part, when your kid grows out of them, either pass them on to a friend with younger kids OR put them in your compost bin! How great is that!
In addition to these the company has other great sustainable toys. Check them out! They are also having a free shipping offer now through Dec 12th. Get your holiday orders in!
Plates, Utensils, Cups and More
Have you guys heard of RePlay? They make kids eating accoutrements out of recycled milk jugs. So while it doesn’t necessarily fit with the Refilleri’s “all compostable or package free” mantra, we love love love when plastic stays out of a landfill or ocean and is repurposed into something else!
Check out their selection of plates, cups, bowls, utensils, etc! All dishwasher and microwave safe as well!
Toys
Another company out there repurposing plastic is Green Toys. They make all their goods out of 100% recycled plastic bottles and materials. Additionally, the packaging is biodegradable and compostable. Lots of toy options for babies and older kids as well. Check them out!
Teens/Preteens- DIY Body Care Products
In general, a great option for the teens and tween girls in your life- anything DIY! Earthy Good makes some great body care kits to create your own soap, lip balm, bath bombs, toothpaste, etc. and all comes in compostable packaging!
Herb Garden
What could be more Eco-friendly than growing your own herbs? I love this idea for kids, as it gives them growing experience, knowledge about plants, and allows them to be a contributing member of the household. My niece has one and LOVES that her Basil is on their pizza!
This one from a small seller on Esty is a great option. It comes with a reusable potter and all paper and other sustainable materials.
Teens/Preteens- Knitting Kit
Yarn is compostable! That’s right- as long as it’s made from all natural materials, you can compost it when you are done. Therefore, I’d highly recommend these for the teens and preteens in your life. I’ve linked one from Etsy here, but feel free to assemble your own as well with some bamboo knitting needles, natural yarn, and instructions!
Personalized Toothbrush
As a kid, I never had personalized items, given the “different” spelling of my name. Therefore, out of depravity I’ve always been into personalized items in my adult life. Give the kid in your life something with their name on it! These toothbrushes are made of all bamboo, therefore are compostable, and make a great gift for kids! (Or ladies named Kelli in their 30s.)
Stocking Stuffers
Holiday Shopping Guide
December 1, 2021
Let’s kick off with some stocking stuffer ideas!
Shampoo, Conditioner and other Bars
Guys, if you haven’t already switched to bars for your hair and skin care needs, DO IT. I’ve been a fan of the shampoo bars for many years and switched my conditioner as well in my continuous quest for a plastic free shower. I’ve also gone to a face and body lotion bars and won’t go back! The bar form easily works as well as your favorite product in a bottle, lasts a long time, and again, added bonus of lowering your waste! I have a few faves (And I’ve tried MANY over the years).
Ethique makes a great conditioner bar (linked here) and plenty of other zero waste products- check them out!
For shampoo bars, I have many that I enjoy. I’ve linked here to a newer one I recently tried from a small woman owned company called The Yellow Bird. They also offered a discount code: Refilleri20. In general, shampoo bars are pretty easy to find. I also like the ones from HiBar and Etee, and Trader Joe’s even makes one that’s pretty good!
My lotion bars are both from Lush Cosmetics. They have en entire “naked” line to check out. All the products come without packaging, and they make great products overall!
Lastly, for your facial care needs, I had the opportunity to try out some lovely bars from For Sea and Oats- another small woman run business. I love the Mango Oat Yogurt Solid Facial Cleanser (linked here as “Bars”). Give it a try yourself!
Deodorant
Yes, I know deodorant is not that sexy of a stocking stuffer. But it’s time to move on from those plastic based packaging ones and on to better options! This is another area I have tried many of over the years. Many of the options out there don’t quite offer the non-stinky-ness I was looking for. However, I recently had the opportunity to try out 2 from PAPR, and these really work! It comes in a cardboard sleeve as well so is fully compostable. They also have different scents to choose from based on your preference!
Produce Bags
This is another one I stuffed all my family’s stockings with a few years ago. A lovely alternative to the plastic produce bags they give away in grocery stores. These are all fairly common to find in retail stores, but I’ve linked here to one of my favorite low-waste goods suppliers, Well Earth Goods. It’s another small family owned business, and always ships super quick!
Phone Case
Did you know there are compostable phone cases? Yes, you read that right. I myself use one with a compostable card sleeve as well from Pela. They have TONS of options for color and designs, and always have amazing sales going on. There a BOGO right now for black Friday, buy a phone case and get free sustainable sunglasses! (Yes, that’s also a thing that makes a great stocking stuffer!)
In general as well, Pela offers all kinds of zero waste options- iPad cases, watch bands, etc. Check them out!
MakeUp Eraser
If you are still using makeup wipes, or makeup remover, stop. Seriously, I was gifted one of these last year for Christmas, and will never go back! It does an amazing job of removing your makeup with just water! A super sustainable option that all ladies will love!
Use code MUE10 for 10% off!
Safety Razor
Anyone else’s mom have one of these back in the day and thought they were crazy? Fast Forward 30 years, and here I am buying myself one of these contraptions. I was honestly SUPER nervous to start using this, but was willing to sacrifice my legs for the zero waste cause. However, it is actually quite easy to use, and ended up not being a sacrifice at all!
There are a few options out there for low waste razors, but I love this one from EcoRoots. It comes in black and this beautiful rose gold (which is the one that adorns my shower) and would make a great gift for anyone!