Last Updated on May 17, 2024
Most conventional cleaning products trigger major migraines for me, and I don’t think I’m alone.
Did you know there’s no federal law that requires companies to disclose the ingredients used in their cleaning products? This essentially means cleaning brands don’t have to have an ingredients label, which means there could be potential allergens inside the product and you wouldn’t even know.
This post was sponsored by ESNTL LVG. All thoughts and opinions are my own; for more information see my disclosure policy.
One ingredient conventional cleaning brands tend to use is artificial fragrance. According to EWG, “fragrance” or “parfum” on a product label represents an undisclosed mixture of various scent chemicals and ingredients used as fragrance dispersants such as diethyl phthalate.
EWG further acknowledges fragrance mixes have been associated with allergies, dermatitis, respiratory distress and potential effects on the reproductive system.
Additionally, most cleaning products come in plastic packaging, designed to be used once. Only 5-6% of plastic actually gets recycled, and many plastic cleaning products cannot be recycled curbside due to the nature of the contents inside them.
Switching up my cleaning products was the first zero waste swap I made because it was effective, inexpensive, and it made me feel a lot better! I do this through simple swaps, like using lemons to clean my microwave, baking soda to polish my sink, and ESNTL LVG cleaning products.
ESNTL LVG uses non-toxic biotechnology to formulate three efficient cleaners: All-purpose cleaner, glass and surface cleaner, and bathroom cleaner. Their versatile and minimalist cleaners don’t take up much space in my cleaning caddy, and can be infinitely refilled.
If you’re thinking about switching to a more sustainable cleaning routine, here are three reasons to try ESNTL LVG for yourself.
plastic-free packaging
Many cleaners come in a big plastic bottle that’s made from crude oil, a non-renewable resource. Crude oil is extracted from the earth via fracking and takes a lot of energy, water and resources to transform into moldable plastic.
Additionally, plastic is hard to recycle due to its many numerous forms (there are seven main types of plastic). Not every recycling facility is equipped with the machinery to process all forms of plastic, which is why there are varying recycling rules from state to state, or even town to town.
While 30% of number 1 and 2 plastics are recycled, numbers 3 through 7 are much more difficult to be repurposed. In fact, numbers 6 and 7 are virtually impossible to recycle.
Even when plastic is recycled, it is typically downcycled into something of lesser quality: It can rarely be recycled into the same product twice. Recycled plastics are mixed with virgin material to make them usable, and even then they can only be recycled two to three times before their quality becomes too poor to use.
However, it is important to remember that any material being recycled, be it plastic or glass, takes energy. The most sustainable way to use glass is to reuse it as much as possible.
That’s why I love the fact ESNTL LVG packages their cleaners without single-use plastic. Their spray bottles are made from glass with a silicone sleeve to help protect it. The glass spray bottle can be reused indefinitely and the nozzle is durable and built to last.
It also ships to you plastic-free in a cardboard box. This reduces packaging waste and the cardboard can be easily recycled via curbside recycling.
ESNTL LVG have three color coded glass bottles:
- Green is all-purpose cleaner
- Purple is restroom cleaner and descaler
- Blue is glass and surface cleaner
Color coding the glass bottles helps you easily identify them and grab the right one for the job. It’s also aesthetically pleasing, which makes you more likely to enjoy cleaning with them.
Plus, ESNTL LVG’s cleaners are minimalist and less overwhelming. Instead of purchasing a cleaner for every area of your home (toilet, shower, sink, etc.), all you need are three.
ESNTL LVG’s three cleaners are multi-functional and can be used for various spaces around the home. This reduces clutter in your cleaning caddy, gives you peace of mind, saves money and lots of plastic waste all at once.
Their starter pack, which includes three glass bottles and their corresponding concentrate refills.
refill scheme
On top of being single-use plastic-free, ESNTL LVG also has a refill scheme set in place. This reduces a lot of packaging waste, since the refills are also plastic-free.
Refills promote a circular economy too. We currently live in a linear economy where items are designed for landfill. Raw materials are collected, transformed into products for consumers, then discarded as waste.
But with a circular economy, production leaves less of a footprint because everything gets reduced, reused and/or recycled. End of life is considered and taken into account upon design of a product.
By offering refills in mini glass jars, ESNTL LVG is ensuring there is less overall packaging waste. Their spray bottles are built to last and the empty refill bottles can be upcycled or easily recycled at the end of their life. Each refill comes in a 3 pack packaged in recyclable cardboard boxes.
Once you have the spray bottle, you’ll only have to purchase refills afterwards, which saves you money in the long run.
All you have to do is unscrew the spray nozzle of your glass spray bottle, pour the concentrate refill right in, and add some water. Then you’re ready to clean!
When you’ve emptied each refill glass, you can repurpose them into:
- Mini flower vases
- Propagation stations for your plants
- Travel-size shampoo, conditioner + body wash holders for trips
- Taper candle holder
- Storing dried goods
- DIY extracts, like vanilla extract
Just make sure to clean it out really well before using it to store any edible substances.
efficient & clean ingredients
ESNTL LVG products not only work great, but are also made using clean ingredients, instead of harsh chemicals. They’re completely cruelty-free and never test on animals.
They are transparent about what’s in their products and you can read the full ingredients label for each product on their site. This is important, considering many conventional cleaning brands do not disclose what’s in their products.
They’re made using biotechnology which combines nature, science, and innovation. It uses living organisms to clean, tackling dirt and odors with microorganisms and enzymes.
At ESNTL LVG, their scientists have spent decades perfecting exclusive bioactive ingredients for consistent results. Produced through fermentation, expertly stabilized and formulated, ESNTL LVG products consistently deliver effective cleaning.
I’ve used ESNTL LVG products to clean all areas of my home, from my kitchen counters to my bathroom.
I do still use my own DIY cleaners as well, like my all-purpose cleaner and DIY tub scrub. But ESNTL LVG products are GZW approved and super convenient when I don’t have time to DIY something.
The best part? Since it’s formulated without harmful chemicals, and no artificial fragrances, their cleaning products don’t give me migraines. Most conventional cleaners do!
To reduce waste even further, I avoid paper towels and will use color coded rags designated for specific areas in my home (yes, even the toilet). When I’m done, I just pop them into the wash and reuse them all over again.
Here’s where each ESNTL LVG cleaner can be used in the home, and on what surfaces.
Glass Cleaner:
- Windows
- Mirrors
- Granite
- Marble
- Wood
All Purpose Cleaner:
- Stove Tops
- Counter Tops
- All Floors
- Microwaves
- Desks
Restroom Cleaner and Descaler:
- Showers
- Tubs
- Toilets
- Sinks
- Stainless Steel
Pro tip: Once you’ve sprayed them onto the surface that needs cleaning, let them sit for a few minutes before wiping away. This will allow the solution to do its job and make wiping away grime a breeze.
Would you give ESNTL LVG products a try? What are your favorite sustainable cleaners? Let me know in the comments!
The post 3 Reasons to Try ESNTL LVG Sustainable Cleaning Products appeared first on Going Zero Waste.
This is a sponsored article about a brand that was independently assessed by our rigorous ratings system. We’re proud to only collaborate with “Good” and “Great” rated brands. Learn more.
US brand Toad&Co has a socially and environmentally responsible approach to clothing, creating pieces inspired by the outdoors and with a lower impact on the environment. Not to mention an enduring commitment to helping everyone get outdoors through its work with non-profits. Read on to discover the brand’s environment-first ethos.
Focusing on what matters most
“We make feel-good clothes for positive impact—fostering community around doing good, enjoying life’s simple pleasures, and embracing the unexpected,” says Sarah Palladino, director of people and impact at Toad&Co as she introduces the Californian brand. This “simple pleasures” concept applies to Toad&Co’s approach to design, too, and prioritises quality and responsibility over trend-led items. This, in turn, means the brand focuses its energy on clothes that are comfy and practical enough for everything from work to outdoor exploring, and on maintaining its ongoing commitments to using lower-impact materials, partnering with cleaner factories, and looking for new ways to do more with less.
Since day one, it’s been about more than just clothes. From choosing sustainable practices in every corner of our business to supporting programs that protect the planet and make the outdoors more accessible to everyone—knowing we stand for more is what keeps us going
Gordon Seabury – CEO at Toad&Co
Lower-impact materials and producer responsibility
Opting for lower impact materials is one of the core ways brands can address their impact on the planet: “Sustainable materials make a world of difference,” Toad&Co says. “We use organic cotton, recycled fibres, and other high-quality materials known for low-impact growing and cleaner manufacturing.”
The brand’s selection of more sustainable materials includes organic cotton, hemp, TENCEL Lyocell, and recycled fabrics like wool, cotton, and polyester. It also looks to third party clothing certifications like bluesign®, OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, and Global Organic Textile Standard, and it publishes its list of restricted substances for all to see.
Toad&Co also operates a resale platform, called ToadAgain, online and at its IRL store in Maine, US, to keep its clothes in the loop.
Supporting non-profits and access to the outdoors
Toad&Co donates 1% of its profits to organisations working to empower others and, in particular, enable better access to the outdoors for all.
In 1996, Toad&Co partnered with Search, Inc. to co-found the Planet Access Company, a full-functioning warehouse that trained and employed up to 70 adults with disabilities annually.
Determined not to stop at the front door, the brand also co-founded Search for Adventure in 2004, a unique travel program to facilitate vacations for adults with disabilities. Over 20 years later, the social venture partnership has evolved—and includes a flagship store in Chicago, a program called Visibility Arts that nurtures creativity through sharing Search, Inc. artist’s work, neurodiversity and disability awareness training, and an expanded Search for Adventure program. In 2024, the brand supported 147 nights of camping for adults with disabilities through the program.
We give back to—and partner with—organisations that align with our three pillars of giving: conservation for human enjoyment, equity and accessibility, and do the right thing
Sarah Palladino – director of people and impact at Toad&Co
One of Toad&Co’s key partnerships is with Brave Trails, which is dedicated to LGBTQ+ youth leadership, to support it in putting on accredited camps, mentorship programs, and meet-ups for LGBTQ+ youth.
Shop favourites from Toad&Co’s new collection
Read on to discover some of the standout items that balance style with practicality from Toad&Co’s lineup.
Woven with a beautiful alpine jacquard pattern, this hoodie is made from non-mulesed Merino wool and features pockets at the sides. It’s ideal as a mid-layer under a longer coat when you’re out exploring, or as a cosy item for grabbing a post-walk hot chocolate.
This Alpineglo sweater is a blend of 50% organic cotton and 50% non-mulesed Merino wool, so it’s going to help regulate your temperature in most climates. On top of that, the neutral tone and straight fit make it really versatile—you’ll be reaching for it on the regular.
Toad&Co calls these cropped trousers “sweatpant comfortable, going-out presentable”, which makes sense, given they’re made with organic cotton and Tencel Lyocell for softness and have a comfortable wide waistband, not to mention a pretty floral pattern.
This Nomader jacket is reversible, packable, and water-resistant. In other words, it’s the ideal item to take with you for outdoor adventures. It’s made from recycled nylon and lightly quilted for warmth.
Toad&Co picked the crepe-like organic cotton for this jacket so that you could fold it away in a bag and have it still look presentable when you pull it out. It’s also packed with recycled polyester padding for extra warmth.
Balsam Cutoff TrousersThese Balsam Trousers are made with a tiny bit of stretch and a special waistband for comfort, so they’ll flex with you and feel good all the time. The neutral brown colour also goes with so many options.These Balsam Trousers are made with a tiny bit of stretch and a special waistband for comfort, so they’ll flex with you and feel good all the time. The neutral brown colour also goes with so many options.
Going from a walk to dinner? From the office to drinks? This Kennicott shirt jacket fits the bill for all of the above. The smart twill fabric incorporates recycled Italian wool.
This is Toad&Co’s Re-Form Herringbone: a blend of recycled cotton and polyester that offers a soft drape and an attractive herringbone weave that looks smarter than the average checked shirt.
Like the women’s equivalent, these Balsam trousers have a touch of stretch and a comfortable ‘FlexForm’ waistband that mean they’re going to feel comfortable from the get-go—and you won’t need to worry about a belt, either.
Discover more of Toad&Co’s clothes.
The post How Toad&Co’s Clothes Help Everyone Enjoy the Outdoors appeared first on Good On You.
Last Updated on November 21, 2025
If you’re on the handmade Christmas kick this year, you’re not alone. So am I!
I’m choosing presence over presents this year and bringing back the 90s Christmas I loved as a kid – simple, crafty, low pressure, and full of small moments that feel meaningful.
If you want to gift thoughtfully, and without breaking the bank, these DIY Christmas presents are for you. There’s something for everyone on this list – whether you prefer easy or complex DIYs.
I’ve included all kinds of DIYs – beauty, cooking, fashion, and practical gifts alike. Best of all? Many of these tutorials are zero waste (or close to it).
what are good homemade Christmas gifts?
Good homemade Christmas gifts include consumable items, like homemade nut butters, vanilla extract, or jams. But not all homemade gifts are edible – you can also make items like bath bombs, candles, body scrubs, beeswax wraps, and so much more.
If you’re extra crafty, you could even make wooden gifts (like shelving or tablet holders), ceramic items (like mugs or jewelry), or knitted/crocheted pieces (like blankets, scarves or hats).
It all depends on your level of skill, time at your disposal, and ingredients/materials you have access to.
what are good inexpensive Christmas gifts?
Some good inexpensive Christmas gifts are DIY cornstarch ornaments, handmade body or lip scrub, seasoned salt blends, and homemade treats (like these chocolate chip cookies or vegan sugar cookies).
And never forget to hit up your local thrift store – you can find so many great items that would make affordable gift baskets!
Wrapping DIY Christmas gifts also doesn’t have to be expensive. Reusing gift bags and ribbons from last year, upcycling packaging paper, or even repurposing a scarf for furoshiki wrap are all low-waste and affordable!
RELATED: Gift Wrapping: How to Keep It Easy, Eco and Chic
how can I make a last minute gift?
You can make a last minute gift by getting crafty using the materials you have on hand!
For example, if you have a cardboard box, why not try making an upcycled cardboard dollhouse, vehicle, or pirate ship for a child? For adults, a DIY storage container or a shoe rack works.
One of my fav last minute gifts is scented bath salts in an upcycled glass jar – just a little Epsom salt and essential oil blends will do the trick!
Here’s my list of DIY Christmas gifts – something for everyone and every skill level.
- Bath salts
- DIY makeup like mascara/eyeliner, or lip to cheek
- Bath bombs
- Lip scrub
- Lip balm
- Face mask
- Body lotion
- Natural perfume
- Dry shampoo
- Shampoo bar
- Body soap
- Deodorant
- Rose water toner
- Hand-poured coconut/soy/beeswax candles
- Simmer pot in a jar
- Cookie, brownie, soup mix or hot cocoa mix in a jar
- Handmade seasoning blends
- Vanilla extract
- Vegan caramels or plant-based butter wrapped in compostable parchment paper
- Herb or citrus infused olive oil
- Peanut butter + jam
- Beeswax wraps
- Apple or pumpkin butter
- Sourdough or no-knead artisan bread
- Finished embroidery hoops
- Embroidered pillows, tote bags, clothes or cloth napkins
- Sewn cotton rounds
- Knitted scarf, hat, gloves, sweater, or blanket
- Hand warmers
- Quilt blanet, quilted coat or quilted wallet
- Tie dyed secondhand silk scarves, clothing or sheets
- Hand painted or drawn artwork
- Air dry clay paint palette
- DIY wooden frame for paintings or print photos
- Handmade ceramics (mugs, chawan, chasen holder, vase, spoon rest, etc.)
- Woodworked items (birdhouse, shelving, bookcase, wall guitar mount)
- Carving wooden bowls by hand
- Natural branch coasters
- Plant propagations in one of these DIY planters
- Seed balls using native seeds
- Handwoven baskets or bowls
- Macrame produce bag
- Macrame plant hanger
- Fabric paper mache bowls
- Upcycled paper earring jewelry
- Clay earrings
- Handmade plush toys
- Felt ‘food’ toys
- Wooden toys (like vehicles, blocks, or dollhouses)
- Knit or crocheted baby clothes
What do you think of these DIY Christmas presents? Let me know in the comments!
The post 50 DIY Christmas Presents Anyone Can Make appeared first on Going Zero Waste.
Last Updated on November 6, 2025
Did you know most rugs are made from polyester, aka plastic? Arguably, a good chunk of our furniture and home decor is nowadays.
And lets not forget – rugs can get a lot of foot traffic. If it’s made from polyester, chances are those plastic fibers are going to shed and get onto us. Or worse, in us.
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links; for more information please see my disclosure policy.
Microplastics have been found in human feces, blood, and even placentas. And according to a study from Stanford University, those who had microplastics in their plaque had a higher risk of heart attack, stroke and death than those who didn’t.
On top of this, 5 billion pounds of rugs go to waste each year – that’s 2% of total US landfill. And if they’re made from plastic? They won’t biodegrade.
It’s more important than ever to reduce our exposure to microfibers where we can. Which is why I’ve rounded up the best non toxic rugs on the market.
what is the least toxic rug?
The least toxic rug will have sustainable materials and use no harsh chemicals (like PFAs) in their production.
Here’s what to look for when purchasing a non-toxic rug:
- Sustainable materials, such as organic cotton, jute, sisal or wool
- Low-waste packaging + delivery
- Natural, non-synthetic dyes
- Third-party certifications like OEKO-TEK, Fair Trade, GOTs
- Easy to spot-clean or machine wash
- Available in various styles, patterns + colors to suit your needs
do all rugs have PFAS?
According to Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), only four samples of 201 carpets and rugs were found to contain more than 100 parts per million in their fibers, indicating PFAS were intentionally added to the products.
However, while PFAs may not be a huge concern for rugs, microplastic pollution is, specifically if your carpet is synthetic. Your best bet is to check the material your rug is made from and choose natural fibers whenever possible.
what is the best non-toxic rug for nursery?
The best non-toxic rug for a nursery would be made from natural materials like wool and organic cotton (which are soft on baby’s skin).
I recommend also checking for natural latex for the rug backing and underlay pads. Brands on this list that offer kid-friendly sizes and patterns include Lorena Canals, Nestig, Quince, and Loomy (more on each below).
what brand of rugs are non-toxic?
The brands of rugs that are non-toxic are listed below. I’ve gone ahead and highlighted some of my favorite features of each brand, but it isn’t an exhaustive list. Be sure to check out their websites for more information.
1. hook and loom
- Various rug sizes, shapes + patterns
- Made from GOTs certified organic cotton, recycled cotton + wool
- No dyes or harmful chemicals
- No latex
2. lorena canals
- Various rug sizes, shapes + patterns
- Handmade by artisans using recycled materials like organic cotton + wool
- Nontoxic dyes
- Make your own option
- Machine washable
- Rugcycled line made from recycled materials in their own factory
3. sabai
- Field rug
- Woven using wool + jute
- Available in 3 varying sizes
- Rug pad add-on available for reduced movement
- Certified B Corporation
4. quince
- Various sizes + patterns, best known for vintage-inspired looks
- Made from natural materials like wool, jute, + cotton
- Handcrafted by artisans in India
- Transparent pricing practices
- Compostable poly bags + recycled plastic mailers
5. west elm
- Rugs for every area of the home, in varying sizes
- Made from wool, jute, hemp, cotton, TENCEL + recycled materials
- Handspun by skilled artisans in India
6. nestig
- Area + washable rugs made with fun shapes/designs for babies + kids
- Washable rugs made with organic cotton + nontoxic dyes
- Area rugs made with cotton + each colored element crafted from recycled cotton
- Handmade in Brazil
7. cold picnic
- Various rug shapes + sizes, abstract patterns + bold colors
- Made with wool, bamboo silk, cotton, hemp, + deadstock materials
- Designed in a Brooklyn studio, handmade by artisans in India
- Committed to reducing packaging waste where possible
8. loomy
- Various rug sizes, shapes + patterns
- Made from banana silk, hemp, jute, recycled fiber, viscose, or wool
- Any colored yarn dyed using low-impact techniques
- Handcrafted by indigenous artisans
So what do you think of these non toxic, sustainable rugs? Let me know in the comments!
The post 8 Best Non Toxic Rugs For a Sustainable Home appeared first on Going Zero Waste.
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