Connect with us

Published

on

What’s not to love about a go-to dress in your wardrobe? The right one can be dressed up or down, it can be worn alone, or worn as a skirt with the right top layered on. A dress is arguably the easiest outfit to put together that still looks put together. The right sustainable dress is the kind of closet staple you can reach for on any kind of summer day, even when you have no idea what to wear.

From t-shirt dresses and house dresses to chic midi frocks and fun mini’s for a night out, this roundup of sustainable dresses has just about everything.

So if you’re looking for that perfect eco-friendly dress to complement your wardrobe this year, I’ve got you covered with this guide to sustainably and ethically-made dresses. This guide has brands with both casual and more formal dresses, but if you’re shopping for exclusively special occasion dresses, I’d recommend also browsing my guide to formal dresses.

What Qualifies As (More) Sustainable Dresses?

Wearing what we have in our closets is the most sustainable approach! But if you’re here, you probably already evaluated that option and you’re looking to add something fresh to your closet.

Secondhand Dresses are Sustainable Dresses

The second most sustainable option is to look secondhand. ThredUp can be a versatile option for pieces at any price point and The RealReal is my favorite choice for more premium brands.

Online secondhand marketplaces like Poshmark or Depop are also good options — but something to watch out when it comes to peer-to-peer marketplaces is that they can sometimes contain new fast fashion disguised as “vintage” pieces, so it can require some additional digging.

For more suggestions, find my full guide to secondhand clothing retailers in this post.

If you’re looking for a new sustainably-made dress, here are some considerations:

  • Materials: what is it made from? Is it made with a natural fabric like hemp, linen, or organic cotton? Perhaps made from deadstock or upcycled materials?
  • Production Practices: does the brand take efforts to not overproduce? Do they produce in small batches? (No matter how “eco-conscious” the material is, if a brand is throwing away 30% of their stock, that’s not sustainable!)
  • Timelessness and Quality: this doesn’t have to mean boring and doesn’t necessarily mean the brand never participates in a trend. But does the brand constantly hop on every single trend and push you to buy more and more? Or do they encourage slow mindful consumption with well-designed dresses? Do they pay attention to construction and details that ensure you’ll be wearing this dress year after year?
  • Manufacturing: most brands do not produce their own clothing, but are they sourcing from facilities that pay their workers fairly? Do those facilities minimize waste, use renewable energy, and responsibly manage chemical usage?
  • Ethical Production: who made the dress? were they paid fairly and were they working in safe conditions? do they have worker’s rights, such as the right to organize? how does the brand ensure this? Certifications can be helpful here. But sometimes factories cannot afford these, so look for other assurances, such as that the founder personally visits the factories.
  • Ownership: is it a small woman-owned business or major fashion brand owned by billionaires? What are your values when it comes to where your money is going?

I know that’s a lot! But these are elements to start looking for as you browse through brands. This isn’t about perfection — it’s just about learning and doing the best we can.

My Top Picks for Ethical and Sustainable Dresses

To help you out (because I get it — it’s complicated!) I’ve curated retailers and brands with sustainable and ethical dresses. These brands aren’t necessarily perfect, but they’re doing things better for people and the planet. I’ve included “Conscious Qualities” by each brand or retailer, so you can get an idea about why the brand is on the list and which sustainability criteria they meet.

I’ve also curated brands at a range of price points, to accommodate for different budgets.

This Guide’s Price Range Key:

  • $ = Dresses under $100
  • $$ = Dresses $100 – $200
  • $$$ = Dresses $200+

Keep in mind that while price and quality aren’t necessarily directly tied to each other, lower prices may sometimes mean a sacrifice on quality and the highest quality picks are often on the higher end of the price spectrum. Better quality fabrics cost more, more skilled seamstresses are typically paid more, and many of the details that take a piece from good to great — such as pockets, well-fastened buttons, and linings — add to the product cost as well.

This article features affiliate links, which means we earn a small commission at no additional cost to you (which helps us fund this website) if you choose to purchase through one of these links. As always, we only feature brands that meet high standards for sustainability that we love and that we think you’ll love too!

1. Christy Dawn

Best for flowy, romantic dresses

Crafting “dresses you want to live in”, Christy Dawn’s pieces are a fairytale come true with their romantic silhouettes and dreamy prints. The sustainably-minded brand sources organic cotton as well as regenerative organic cotton grown in India by their partners Oshadi Collective. This “Farm-to-Closet” collection is also vegetable-dyed and block-printed in India using traditional time-honored practices.

Conscious Qualities: Organic & Regenerative Fabrics, Local & Ethical Production

Size Range: XS-3XL
Price Range: $$$

Blue floral puff sleeve organic cotton dress

2. Whimsy + Row

Best for flirty and feminine frocks

If you want a sustainable dress that doesn’t scream “sustainable”, Los Angeles-based Whimsy + Row is the brand for you.

The slow fashion label manufacturers their clothing in limited batches just a few miles away from their office and sources repurposed fabrics (i.e. deadstock) and lower-impact natural materials (such as linen and organic cotton) for their unapologetically feminine clothing. And don’t sleep on their bridesmaid dress options!

Conscious Qualities: Lower Impact Fabrics, Small Batch Production

Size Range: XS-XL
Price Range: $$-$$$

Red slow fashion mini dress made from deadstock fabric in Los Angeles

3. Tradlands

Best for effortless house dresses

Created out of co-founder Sadie’s desire for classic, high-quality pieces, Tradlands is designed with longevity and versatility top of mind. And their effortless dresses are just as simple to care for — Tradlands uses natural — but washable! — fibers like cotton and linen.

The 100% cotton tiered dress I have from Tradlands (this one’s similar) is one of my summer go-to’s — breathable, flattering, and easy to dress up or down. I can wear it as a house dress working from home, or paired with jewelry and elegant sandals to dinner. (Monofiber fabrics — i.e. 100% of one fiber — is also easier to recycle than fabric blends.)

Conscious Qualities: Natural Fibers, Small Batch Production, Extended Sizing

Size Range: XS-4XL
Price Range: $$

Brown cotton and linen short sleeve midi length dress with smocked top

4. Magic Linen 

Best for 100% linen dresses

Versatile, breezy, and perfect for simmering temps, Magic Linen’s relaxed styles offer everything you need to feel calm and collected all summer long. Crafted from pure linen that has been stone-washed to provide unparalleled softness against your skin, these relaxed fits are the ideal intersection between vacation chic and functional style.

All of Magic Linen’s summer-ready pieces are created on a made-to-order basis, ensuring their garments are not overproduced. The brand also minimizes wastage by repurposing most of its fabric offcuts to create smaller items.

Conscious Qualities: Lower Impact Natural Materials, Woman-Owned, Made-To-Order

Size Range: US 2–18
Price Range: $$-$$$

Beige linen midi dress with tie at waist

5. Rare & Fair

Best for special occasionwear

Made thoughtfully with time-honored practices by master artisans and craftspeople in small batches, Rare & Fair has truly exceptional sustainable dresses. Each piece is made in a fully transparent, traceable process from fiber to final stitch.

Conscious Qualities: Sustainable Fabrics & Processes, Artisan Made, Cultural Preservation

Size Range: XXS-XL
Price Range: $$$

sleek black midi dress

6. tentree

Best for casual weekend dresses

When warm weather approaches, all you want is a dress you can throw on. And if your style skews minimalist, all you desire is a dress that has interesting details but doesn’t make too much of a fuss or song and dance about itself. Lucky for you, tentree has an array of simple dresses that fit the bill.

Button-down, wrap, cami, or even hooded, these pieces make everyday dressing feel like a breeze. Made from breathable materials like modal, hemp, TENCEL™ Lyocell, linen, and organic cotton, these dresses are an ideal investment for the long haul.

Conscious Qualities: Eco Materials, Supply Chain Transparency, Plants Trees, Circularity Programs

Size Range: XS–XL
Price Range: $$-$$$

Teal cotton tiered mini dress

7. MATE

Best for non-toxic dresses

There’s nothing more satisfying than finding summer dresses that make you look instantly put together without much effort – and MATE’s curation checks every box.

From breezy maxi dresses to functional dresses that come with a removable belt bag, their styles are made using GOTS Certified Organic Linen, ideal for keeping the heat at bay when the mercury rises to unbearable temperatures.

What’s more? You can work up a sweat feeling relieved knowing that all of their pieces are made using non-toxic dyes that don’t rely on harmful chemicals like pesticides, BPA, PFAS, and formaldehyde.

Size Range: XS – XL
Price Range: $ – $$$

Brown v neck linen dress

8. OhSevenDays

Best for elevated dresses with a point of view

OhSevenDays’ dresses feature feminine silhouettes, muted colors, and unique details to impress. Made from deadstock fabrics sourced from Istanbul, Turkey. The slow fashion brand also offers a transparent behind the scenes look at their production process, all done in-house by a team of four tailors.

With the level of detail on OhSevenDays dresses, all you need is an elevated pair of sustainably-made sandals and you’ve got a complete look.

Conscious Qualities: Reclaimed Fabrics, Transparent Production

Size Range: S-L + custom sizing
Price Range: $

Blush pink mini dress with sheer skirt made from deadstock fabrics

9. No Nasties

Best for vacation dresses with vibrant hues

No Nasties creates 100% organic cotton fair trade dresses perfect for wearing to the beach with flip flops or pairing with heeled sandals for date night. Their versatile sustainable dresses are comfy, organic, and affordable with most pieces priced at under $100.

Conscious Qualities: Organic Fabrics, Traceable Supply Chain, Fair Trade

Size Range: XS-L
Price Range: $

Floral organic cotton fair trade dress from No Nasties

10. LOUD BODIES

Best for size inclusive slow fashion dresses

Crafting pieces in small batches using natural fibers in 15 different sizes, LOUD BODIES’ creates some of the best eco-friendly size inclusive dresses.

The brand will even produce pieces in custom sizes at no extra charge.

Conscious Qualities: Lower Impact Fabrics, Size Inclusive, Small Batch

Size Range: XXS-10XL
Price Range: $$

White slow fashion dress

11. Míe

Best for dresses you won’t see anywhere else

Míe is an independent fashion brand prioritizing natural fibers like linen and distinguished design details like tiered puff sleeves and unique necklines. Based in Nigeria and only sold in select global retailers, you’re unlikely to see anyone else wearing something similar.

Each dress is designed and handcrafted responsibly at their atelier in Lagos, Nigeria.

Conscious Qualities: Natural Fibers, Black Woman-Owned

Size Range: XS-3XL
Price Range: $$$

Light blue flowy mini dress with tie from independent Nigerian designer Mìe

12. Reformation

Best for going out styles

Reformation is one of the more transparent and accountable mainstream sustainable brands. In 2023, Reformation used 97% recycled, regenerative, or renewable materials and nearly 1 in 5 of their sales were resale, vintage, or rental. They also have a number of circularity programs. (Find more details in their sustainability report.)

That said, they’re still a growth-focused brand selling trend-driven clothing, which has inherent sustainability limits. They’re doing better than most at their size — just go in with realistic expectations.

Conscious Qualities: Responsible Material Sourcing, Circularity Initiatives, Traceability

Size Range: 0 – 12 and 14 – 24 in select styles
Price Range: $$$

Yellow linen midi dress

You Might Also Be Wondering…

Are sustainable dresses worth the higher price tag?

It depends! The key here is to look at cost-per-wear. A $250 organic linen dress you wear 80 times costs $3.12 per wear. A $40 fast fashion dress you wear 5 times costs $8 per wear. More sustainable dresses tend to have timeless design and be made with higher quality materials and construction, meaning they last longer, hold their shape better, and don’t need replacing as often. That said, always look at the care instructions! Natural fibers may require a bit more attention than synthetic fibers (such as air-drying instead of throwing in a machine dryer) but they’re well worth the additional effort.

And there are also genuinely affordable sustainable options (like No Nasties and tentree) that prove sustainability doesn’t always mean expensive. Some brands are priced very competitively with their less sustainably-minded couterparts.

What certifications should I look for when buying a sustainable dress?

The most meaningful certifications for dresses are:

  • GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) for organic fibers and other sustainability assurances during production
  • OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 for chemical safety in finished garments (note that this is a product certification, not a material certification — and many brands miscommunicate this label)
  • Made in Fair Trade Certified™ factories which ensure that the brand is paying into a premium that goes to a Community Development Fund that workers can vote on to determine how to use those funds

However, many small brands cannot afford to buy certified products, fabrics, or pay into fair trade programs. There are other ways to ensure ethical sourcing as well, so look into a brand’s sustainability or sourcing pages too.

What’s the most sustainable type of fabric for a dress?

This is a nearly impossible question to answer because no single fiber is the “best” by all measures. There are so many considerations (land use, water use, biodegradability, longevity, carbon emissions, and so on) that I cannot tell you the single “best” fiber.

That said, I avoid synthetic materials, which are made from fossil fuels and release microplastics into our environment when washed. Among natural options, different fibers have different use cases, so I recommend looking for the best version of each. This deep dive has much more on fabrics.

But even then there are nuances — is 50% organic cotton blend with hemp or linen better than a 100% conventional cotton fabric considering that monofiber fabrics are much easier to recycle at the end of their life? As you can see, the most sustainable question is complicated.

Should I buy secondhand instead of new sustainable dresses?

From a pure environmental standpoint, secondhand is almost always the better choice — no new resources used, no new manufacturing emissions. Platforms like ThredUp, The RealReal, Poshmark, and Depop are great starting points. That said, buying new from sustainably-minded brands does serve a purpose: it signals market demand for responsible production and can support artisans, ethical manufacturers, and/or women-owned small businesses, depending on the brand. The best approach in my mind? Check secondhand first. If you can’t find what you need, then invest in a quality piece from a trusted more sustainable brand if you can.

What sustainable dresses come in plus sizes or extended sizes?

Size inclusivity is an area where sustainable fashion has historically underperformed — but it’s improving. LOUD BODIES is the standout on this list, offering 15 sizes from XXS to 10XL. Christy Dawn goes up to 3XL in some styles, Míe up to 3XL, and Tradlands to 4XL. When shopping, always check the full size range on the brand’s website, as some brands offer extended sizes only in select styles.

The post The Best Sustainable Dresses Brands of 2026 — for Any Budget appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.

The Best 11 Brands for Sustainable Dresses

Continue Reading

Green Living

8 Sustainable and Non-Toxic Bed Frames for a Peaceful Slumber

Published

on

Unwind and sleep easy with one of these non-toxic and eco-friendly bed frames that you know was sourced consciously, both in respect to your own health and the health of our common home: Mother Earth.

What is a Non-Toxic and Eco-Friendly Bed Frame?

Just as with other eco-friendly furniture, the key elements to consider when it comes to bed frames are the materials, finishes, general production practices, and durability.

Materials

If you’re looking for a natural bed frame and want it to be non-toxic, it’s typically best to go the solid wood route if you can.

Most plywood, particleboard, or engineered wood is made with glue that contains added formaldehyde. As a Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) and probable carcinogen, formaldehyde is an environmental and health risk for yourself and the workers producing that product. While all wood naturally contains formaldehyde, pressed wood contains higher concentrations of it.

Another material to consider if you’re looking for non-toxic furniture is solid metal, due to its durability, easy maintenance, and recyclability. However, this option isn’t as eco-friendly if that metal was newly mined, rather than recycled.

Sourcing

Of course, although wood is renewable, it’s not always sustainably sourced. Look at a company’s About or Sustainability pages to see what information they can provide about how the wood they use is harvested and where it is sourced from. Look for things like:

  • Local sourcing. This minimizes the product’s carbon footprint and typically means that a company has more transparency into their supply chain.
  • FSC-certified. While not perfect, the Forest Stewardship Council seal is the most widely used third-party verification for sustainably-sourced wood.
  • Reclaimed wood. Finding a bed frame made from repurposed materials is a fantastic option if you can find it. Not only does using reclaimed wood reduce waste, but it minimizes the need to cut down additional trees.

Finishes

Most conventional finishes used on furniture contain VOCs, which can cause a myriad of short-term and long-term health impacts. Look for non-toxic bed frames with low-VOC or even better, zero-VOC finishes.

Other Production Practices:

  • Renewable energy use. Does the company use wind or solar power for its operations? Do they purchase Renewable Energy Credits?
  • Waste reduction. How does the company handle material waste such as leftover wood? Do they work to minimize water use and energy use?
  • Donations. Does the company give back to an environmental organization through a group like 1% for the Planet? Do they plant more trees than the number of trees cut down to produce their products?

Durability

One of the all-too-often left out elements of sustainability is durability and longevity! The longer the bed frame lasts, the longer it stays out of the landfill, and the fewer new bed frames you’ll have to consume.

How can you determine durability? Look for sturdy materials, good construction, check out the reviews for the brand’s products, and see what sort of warranty the brand offers. Some brands offer 1-year or 5-year warranties, and some even include a lifetime guarantee! The longer a brand commits to standing behind its products, the better.

If you’re planning to move around often, you may also want to consider how well the bed frame can be deconstructed and reconstructed. Fast furniture brands with poor construction — and that may use plastic in places that should be supported with metal — may not hold up after a few moves.

A Quick Note on Certifications

Certifications aren’t the full story in sustainability, but they can provide an important added layer of verification to a company’s claims.

  • FSC Certified = the wood sourcing was responsibly managed (not perfect but generally recommended as a stronger standard that Sustainable Forestry Initiative)
  • GOTS Certified = the fabric meets strict organic and safety standards; this applies to the textiles only (like any upholstery on a bed frame), not the wood or any foam
  • GREENGUARD / GREENGUARD Gold Certified = the finished product was tested for low chemical emissions, with Gold representing the stricter tier;
  • LEED Certified = verifies the environmental performance of the building or manufacturing facility itself (energy use, water efficiency, indoor air quality); this is a facility-level certification, not a claim about the product’s materials or emissions
  • Carbon Neutral Certified = verifies that a company has measured its greenhouse gas emissions and offset or reduced them to net zero; this is typically a company-level claim, not a guarantee about any single product’s individual footprint

How to Find Sustainable and Natural Bed Frames

As always, shopping secondhand is a great way to source furniture sustainably and more affordably! Sites like Facebook Marketplace, local Buy Nothing groups, and Craigslist can be resources for finding cheap eco-friendly furniture — sometimes, you can even get a piece for free if you’re willing to take care of the pick-up.

I also recommend checking out EstateSales.net to find local estate sales happening near you! I have found some of my absolute favorite pieces of high-quality, preloved furniture at estate sales.

For a more curated selection of secondhand bed frames, check out AptDeco.

And if vintage furniture (usually defined by being more than 40 years old) is more your style, take a look at Chairish, EBTH, or 1st Dibs.

If you can’t find anything preloved, or you’d prefer to purchase a verified non-toxic bed frame, check out these brands below for sustainable bedroom furniture!

Note that this sustainable bed frame guide contains affiliate links, meaning we’ll earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through one of these links, which helps us continue to run this site. As always, all brands meet rigorous criteria for sustainability and are brands we love — and that we think you’ll love too!

Brands with Sustainable and Non-Toxic Bed Frames:

Our Top Overall Pick: Savvy Rest

Eco bed frames from Savvy rest

Savvy Rest has everything you need to sleep more restfully, from organic mattresses to non-toxic bedroom furniture. The brand’s timeless all-natural platform beds — The Afton is their flagship platform bed and The Esmont is a platform bed with a customizable headboard — are made in their own Virginia workshop. Each bed is crafted out of sustainably-sourced maple and poplar wood and is available unfinished or with a zero-VOC finish.

The non-toxic furniture company also has a sustainable adjustable bed frame crafted from responsibly-sourced solid red oak, featuring a mid-century modern headboard.

Conscious Qualities: Sustainably-Sourced Wood, Zero-VOC Finishes, Local Production

Price Range: $1,049 (Twin platform bed) – $4,799 (King adjustable bed frame) | Use code CONSCIOUSSTYLE20 for 20% off

Shipping: Free White Glove delivery within continental U.S.; contact for quotes outside 48 contiguous states

Best Reclaimed Wood Bed Frame Options: Avocado

Wooden and sustainable bed frame from Avocado Mattress

Made in their own GOTS-certified Los Angeles factory, Avocado Mattress makes eco-friendly bed frames with high environmental, health, and social standards. Each bed frame is made out of reclaimed wood or solid FSC-certified timber and zero-VOC finishes.

For the bed frames made from new wood, Avocado Mattress uses non-toxic Titebond wood glues. The Certified B-Corporation also pays living wages and offers benefits, including family healthcare, to their production factory team members.

Conscious Qualities: Reclaimed or FSC-Certified Wood, Zero-VOC Finishes, Local Production in a GOTS-Certified Factory, Greenguard-Certified (Gold), Carbon Neutral Certified

Price Range: $750 (Twin platform bed) – $7,999 (California King frame with headboard)

Shipping: Ships furniture within the contiguous U.S.

Best Variety of Eco-Friendly Beds: Medley

White upholstered eco-friendly bed from Medley

Using only the highest quality non-toxic materials for their sustainable furniture, Medley has natural bed frames are made from domestically-sourced FSC-certified solid wood. Each wooden bed frame is made-to-order in Los Angeles using zero-VOC glue and zero-VOC all-natural furniture polish. (Note: Medley’s bamboo furniture uses low-VOC finishes.)

If you prefer an upholstered sustainable bed, check out Medley’s Nein bed which has the option to use organic natural latex.

Conscious Qualities: Local In-House Production, FSC-Certified Wood, Natural Finishes, Made-to-Order

Price Range: $2,495 (Twin bed with headboard) – $6,595 (King bed with headboard and storage)

Shipping: Contiguous U.S. (contact Medley for quotes outside of the U.S.)

Best for Sustainable Upholstered Beds: Saatva

Modern eco-friendly bed frame from Saatva

Saatva is a sustainable mattress company that has expanded into eco-friendly bed frames too. The company uses responsibly sourced hardwood that has been kiln-dried for maximum durability for the bed frame as well as plywood slats for additional support. (Note: I asked Saatva’s customer support team about potential toxins in the plywood, and they have told me that their beds are free of formaldehyde.)

For upholstery, Saatva offers natural linen as an option, which would be the non-toxic fabric choice!

Probably the most impressive feature of Saatva’s beds is their attention to quality and proper support. They even offer a 180-day trial to make sure you love the bed, plus a lifetime warranty — a feature you definitely won’t find at most big box furniture stores.

Conscious Qualities: Sustainably-Sourced Hardwood, Natural Upholstery Option, Lifetime Warranty

Price Range: $795 (Twin platform bed) – $3,295 (King bed with leather headboard)

Shipping: Contiguous U.S; free in-room delivery

Best Design Forward Sustainable Beds: Cisco Home @ Urban Natural

eco-friendly bed made with red upholstered fabric and sustainable bed with gray upholstered fabric

Made to order with exceptional care in Los Angeles, Cisco Home is the real deal when it comes to quality sustainable furniture, including their eco-friendly upholstered or slipcovered beds. (Choose upholstered for a more classic style or select slipcovered for easy cleaning and maintenance.) Cisco’s cozy yet elegant beds will transform your bedroom into an aesthetically pleasing sanctuary.

Cisco Home’s default furniture options don’t automatically include their best eco materials. So for the most eco-minded and non-toxic option, select “Make it Organic” on the product pages which will ensure your bed gets made with only the highest quality earth-conscious materials: FSC-certified woods, organic latex, jute, hemp, organic cotton, and wool.

Conscious Qualities: Made In California, Made-to-Order, Low-VOC Stains, FSC-Certified Wood and Natural Materials (with “Inside Green” option)

Price: $3,588 (Twin upholstered bed) – $10,979 (King organic upholstered bed)

Shipping: Ships within contiguous U.S.; white glove delivery available with fee

Best Simple Sustainable Wood Bed Frame: Birch

Solid wood non-toxic bed frame from Birch with mattress

Organic and eco-friendly mattress company Birch also has a natural wood bed frame made from responsibly-sourced hardwood. In fact, all of the wood in the Birch Wood Frame are from FSC-certified and LEED compliant sources, to verify their commitment to responsible wood harvesting and energy use.

Specifically, this sustainable bed frame is made up of Appalachian hardwood bed rails, solid Southern Yellow Pin wood slats, and Appalachian Maple legs. This minimal solid wood bed frame is finished with all-natural water-based VOC-free finishes.

And in case you needed more reasons to love this non-toxic bed frame: it’s handmade in the USA, ships free, and comes with a 5-year warranty.

Conscious Qualities: Solid Wood, Responsibly Sourced, Zero VOC Finishes

Price: $599 (Twin) – $978 (King)

Shipping: U.S. and Canada (feel applies to HI, AK, and Canada)

Best Affordable Eco-Friendly Bed Frame: Thuma

Sustainable and wooden bed frame from Thuma

Minimal yet functional, Thuma’s eco-friendly beds are designed with intention — they are supportive and sturdy yet simple and easy to assemble.

Each minimalist bed is made from upcycled and repurposed rubberwood trees and is shipped out efficiently in recycled cardboard. (No styrofoam here!) With an average 4.9 star rating from nearly 21,000 reviews, there’s clearly a lot to love about Thuma’s sustainable bed frames.

Conscious Qualities: GREENGUARD Certified, Repurposed Wood

Price Range: $895 (Twin bed, frame only) – $2,595 (King bed with upholstered headboard)

Shipping: Ships within U.S. and Canada (international customers can use freight forwarder)

Best Untreated Non-Toxic Bed Frame: My Green Mattress

Non-toxic and eco bed frames from My Green Mattress

MyGreenMattress.com has a simple sustainable bed frame made in the US from untreated domestically-sourced Poplar wood. The non-toxic bed frame does not have any wood stains, adhesives, or toxic chemicals. This slatted platform bed also eliminates the need for a box spring.

Conscious Qualities: Domestically-Sourced Wood, Non-Toxic & Untreated, Made in the US

Price: $799 (Twin without headboard) – $1,899 (King with headboard)

Shipping: Free shipping within U.S.

And that’s a wrap on our guide to sustainable and non-toxic bed frames. Thanks for reading, and for taking the time to be thoughtful about your next bedroom furniture purchase. And I hope that this guide saved you some time and research and you’re on your way to finding the right sustainably-crafted bed that suits your needs and interior aesthetic.

Complete Your Bedroom: Non-Toxic Mattresses | Eco-Friendly Pillows | Organic Bedding | Non-Toxic Nightstands

Shopping For Other Furniture? Browse These Guides:

The Best Sustainable Furniture Brands

Non-Toxic Furniture Brands For A Healthy Home

Actually Sustainable and Non-Toxic Sofas for Restful Relaxation

The post 8 Sustainable and Non-Toxic Bed Frames for a Peaceful Slumber appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.

8 Sustainable and Non-Toxic Bed Frames for a Peaceful Slumber

Continue Reading

Green Living

5 Sustainable Mirrors That Make for Stunning Wall Decor

Published

on

When I was curating furniture and decor for my first home, I was well-prepared for sourcing furniture and textile-based decor like pillows given all of the research I’ve done over the years for my guides. But mirrors presented a new challenge: what makes a mirror “sustainable”? And are there any style-forward sustainable mirrors to choose from? And how do I source something like a full-length sustainable mirror within a reasonable budget?

This guide is the result of all of that research — mirrors from companies I purchased from and others I researched but didn’t ultimately select for my own space.

What to Look for in a Sustainable Mirror:

Most mirrors are made from glass and reflective metal with a frame. Some lighter weight or “shatterproof” mirrors use transparent acrylic or polycarbonate — in other words: plastic. If sustainability is something you’re looking for I’d avoid those materials, as they’re directly derived from fossil fuels.

Here’s what else to keep in mind.

Note that this guide includes affiliate links, meaning if you make a purchase through some of these links, we may earn a commission which enables us to keep creating resources just like this one. As always, these are brands that meet high standards for sustainability and are brands we truly love — and that we think you’ll love too!

Search for Secondhand Mirrors

Shopping for pre-loved mirrors keeps existing mirrors out of the landfill while reducing the need for new production. (Get tips for shopping secondhand home goods here.)

Local Secondhand Options:

  • Local thrift shops and furniture resale stores
  • Estate sales or garage sales
  • Apps like Facebook Marketplace and OfferUp for local pickups

Online Secondhand Options:

While these options are typically priced a bit higher (and may involve shipping fees) they can be more convenient and curated than the above options. These resources do all the work of inspection, cleaning, and delivery for you.

  1. AptDeco is best for big name brands at lower prices. The resale site has gently used, mid-market furniture (think West Elm and Ethan Allen) for prices that are anywhere from 10-85% lower than new.
  2. Chairish is best for unique finds and investment pieces. The vintage site has a stunning, curated selection of everything from art deco mirrors to traditional 19th century mirrors.
  3. Happy Vintage Studio is best for vintage accent mirrors. This “star seller” on Etsy has plenty of one-of-a-kind mirrors of all shapes and sizes — and at quite reasonable prices for vintage, too. You can get the pieces delivered or do a local pickup if you’re near the Virginia-based seller.

Responsible Materials

If shopping new, look for mirrors with eco-friendly frames. As I mentioned, the mirror itself doesn’t vary all that much (just make sure it’s glass, not plastic!). The frames, though, can vary quite a bit. Most mass-production mirrors are made with metal frames or pressed wood, potentially sourced irresponsibly. Instead look for mirrors made from materials like sustainably-sourced or reclaimed wood, bamboo, rattan, or recycled metal.

Working Conditions & Craftsmanship

The people aspect of sustainability is just as important to consider. Does the brand publish information about how the mirror was made and if the makers earned fair, living wages? If they worked in safe conditions and had benefits? There are some certifications like Fair Trade Certified factories, though this is still rare among furniture companies unfortunately.

Where to Find Sustainable Mirrors

Sustainable home decor shopping isn’t easy, but I’ve done a lot of the heavy lifting for you. Check out the following vetted sources to find responsibly-made more sustainable mirrors.

1. Ethnicraft @ Urban Natural

Ethnicraft has mastered the art of creating stylish home objects with exceptional craftsmanship over the course of their 25 years in business. Their sustainable mirrors are crafted by artisans using materials like solid mahogany, walnut, oak and bronze.

The brand sources FSC-certified wood and repurposes waste, like recycling leftover wood into things like base material.

Best for: Elegant, artisan-made mirrors

Price range: $539 (wall mirror) – $1,269 (aged floor mirror)

2. Green Row

Best for: Artful mirrors that add real character

This sustainable furniture and decor brand is newer to the scene, and I only recently learned about it. Part of the Williams Sonoma family, Green Row was founded with sustainability at its foundation — with decades of design and sourcing experience behind it.

Green Row’s mirror collection leans into artisan techniques you don’t see often in mainstream home decor: from bone hand-inlaid onto mango wood frames and reverse-painted etched glass (made in India) to natural shell inlay(Philippines). Each piece is framed as an effort to preserve traditional handcraft techniques, so the natural variation between pieces is part of the character. (They do use MDF for backings, though.)

Conscious Qualities: Mango Wood and Rattan Frames, Artisan-Made, Cultural Craft Preservation

Price Range: $219 (accent mirror) – $5,000 (hand-sculpted Venetian glass mirror)

3. Village Thrive

Best for: Rattan mirrors in playful, artisan-made shapes

Village Thrive partners with an artisan collective of over 100 makers in Kerobokan, Bali, handcrafting rattan mirrors sustainably sourced on the island. Beyond the classic round and rectangle shapes, they offer genuinely distinctive silhouettes — think arches, crescent moons, blooms, an “opened eye” shape, and a rainbow.

One of the touches I appreciate is that Village Thrive sells “imperfect” mirrors with slight cosmetic damage at a discount, rather than discarding them — this is both a way to reduce waste from the handcraft process, and a good option if you’re not picky about flawless decor and want to save some money.

Conscious Qualities: Ethically Artisan-Made, Natural Materials

Price Range: $111 (imperfect option) – $285

Boho arch mirror made with rattan by artisans in Bali

4. VivaTerra

Best for: Organic and antique accent mirrors

Green lifestyle retailer VivaTerra offers a selection of sustainably-crafted home decor and furniture, including mirrors.

Among their current available options are a hand-hammered antique brass framed mirror made by their artisan partners and a woven flower-shaped mirror crafted from cane.

Conscious Qualities: Artisan-Made, Natural Frame Options

Price Range: $249 – $329

Flower shaped rattan mirror from sustainable retailer VivaTerra

5. What We Make

Best for: handcrafted solid wood mirrors

Made from sustainably-sourced American hardwood by a woodworking studio in Pittsburgh, these are not your average mirrors.

Each timeless mirror is handmade to order with heirloom quality joinery and a mirror glass with hardboard backing (to make it easily replaceable). Choose between Walnut, natural White Oak, or White Oak with a black finish.

Conscious Qualities: Sustainably-Sourced Hardwood, Made to Order in the US

Price Range: $995 – $1,495

Arched mirror handmade from sustainably sourced American hardwood

Honorable mention:

West Elm – Natural Fiber Mirrors

Furniture retailer West Elm has several accent mirrors made with natural rattan. The natural mirrors blend contemporary shapes with a textured frame for a beautiful modern on the boho interior aesthetic.

Best for: Contemporary mirrors with natural fiber frames

Price Range: $229 – $439

Rattan circle mirror hanging above sideboard

More Sustainable Home Decor Guides:

Ethical Home Decor Brands to Curate a Conscious Space

Sustainable Throw Pillows for Every Aesthetic

Fair Trade Baskets & Hampers to Store Everything and Anything

The post 5 Sustainable Mirrors That Make for Stunning Wall Decor appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.

5 Sustainable Mirrors That Make for Stunning Wall Decor

Continue Reading

Green Living

7 Sustainable Solid Wood Dining and Coffee Tables Built to Last

Published

on

Whether the family is sitting down for dinner in the kitchen or you and your roommates are marathoning Netflix in the living room, the sustainable tables from these brands will be your new gathering places for enjoying meals, drinks, and conversations together.

The sustainable table brands featured in this guide have furniture for any of your living and dining places:

  • Dining tables,
  • Side tables,
  • Coffee tables, and
  • Bar tables.

But first, you might be wondering: what is a sustainable table anyway?

What to Look for in a Sustainable Table

The word “sustainable” is used frequently and in so many different contexts that it can be difficult to pinpoint what exactly sustainable means.

That said, here are some key elements to consider when looking for your next coffee table, dining table, or desk.

Eco-Friendly Materials

When it comes to eco-friendly tables, wood is the most common material used because it’s a natural, renewable, and durable material that works with nearly any room or interior design style.

Note: If you find a brand that uses engineered wood or pressed wood, make sure to look on their website or ask about what adhesives are used. These products are often made from wood pieces that are bond together with glue that contains formaldehyde, which the EPA classifies as a “probable human carcinogen”.

Here’s what to look for to ensure sustainably-sourced wood:

  • Reclaimed Wood. Using existing resources reduces waste and the need to cut down additional trees. Plus, reclaimed wood — especialcan add authentic character to your table!
  • FSC-certified. The Forest Stewardship Council’s certification is the most widely used verification for responsible forestry practices. Just like any other large certification, the FSC seal is not perfect but can be an additional seal of approval to look for.
  • Traceability. Look to see if the brand can tell you where the wood was sourced from. Usually, smaller furniture brands will be able to have more transparency and traceability of their supply chain!
  • Local sourcing. Locally-sourced wood (from native or climate-appropriate trees) is preferable because sourcing locally reduces emissions from transportation.

Zero-VOC or Low-VOC Finishes

Similar to paints, finishes can contain Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Not only do VOCs create environmental hazards like air pollution and smog but they also pollute your indoor air too.

According to the EPA, health impacts of VOCs include:

  • Eye, nose, and throat irritations
  • Headaches and nausea
  • Damage to the liver, kidney, and central nervous system
  • Some VOCs are also known or suspected carcinogens

All too often we think of environmental sustainability as something separate from ourselves — something “out there in nature”.

But as with so many aspects of sustainability, what’s healthy for the environment is also often healthy for us as well — humans are, in fact, part of the environment. That’s why this sustainable table guide only includes non-toxic tables, too.

Other Sustainability Initiatives

Some other initiatives to look for from sustainable table brands include:

  • Use of renewable energy to power their operations or the purchase of renewable energy credits to offset fossil fuel energy use.
  • Take-back and/or repair programs to extend the life of their tables.
  • Quality manufacturing that ensures durable products built to last.
  • Trustworthy tree planting projects, especially if the company uses wood for their products.

Certifications

While not the end-all-be-all, certifications are third-party verifications that back up a company’s claim around sustainability, ethical sourcing, or non-toxic material use. Here are the certifications you might see for sustainable tables:

  • FSC Certified = the wood sourcing was responsibly managed; this certification is imperfect but has a higher standard that Sustainable Forestry Initiative, as reported by environmental nonprofit Sierra Club
  • GREENGUARD / GREENGUARD Gold Certified = the finished product was tested for low chemical emissions, with Gold representing the strictest tier
  • Cradle-to-Cradle Certified = evaluates a product across material health, circularity, clean air/climate, water/soil stewardship, and social fairness; one of the only certifications that can assess a whole furniture product rather than a single material

Where to Find Sustainable Tables

Just as with fashion, looking secondhand first is a great way to find eco-friendly furniture at a more affordable price. Check out your local flea markets, secondhand stores, and keep an eye out for estate sales.

For online secondhand options, check out:

  • Facebook Marketplace (owned by Meta of course, but does have the most options)
  • OfferUp
  • Chairish
  • AptDeco

If you’re looking for a new eco-friendly table made from responsibly-sourced or reclaimed materials, take a look at the brands below!

Disclaimer: This guide includes affiliate links and partners, but as always all brands are vetted rigorously for sustainability and are brands we love, that we think you’ll love too

Best for Non-Toxic Dining Tables: Medley

walnut wood sustainable dining table with 4 chairs

Medley uses only FSC-certified walnut or maple hardwood for their solid wood eco-friendly dining tables and accent tables. Each table is finished with an all-natural furniture polish that consists of just beeswax, carnauba wax, and olive oil. And every table, just like the rest of Medley’s furnishings, is made in their own workshop in Los Angeles.

Conscious Qualities: FSC-Certified Wood, Transparent Local Production, Non-Toxic Finishes, Plants Trees

Price Range: $1,295 (coffee table) – $7,195 (extendable dining table)
Shipping: Contiguous U.S. (or contact Medley for a quote outside of the U.S.)

Best for Reclaimed Wood Dining Tables: What We Make

Reclaimed oak solid wood table with 6 chairs, made in the USA

What We Make crafts their dining tables in Chicagoland from 100+ year old reclaimed planks salvaged from Midwestern barns. Each table is handcrafted with hand-welded steel legs and a metal side skirt, finished with a matte, VOC-free, plant-based finish. You can select from classic rectangular tables, or oval shaped and round tables. The small business has everything from pub tables and outdoor tables to modern and farmhouse style tables.

There are several tables with extendable designs too: each leaf adds 20 inches of length and seats two more people, and they’ll also sell you a matching bench sized specifically to slide beneath the table when not in use.

Because most of their tables are made with reclaimed wood (with a few exceptions — double check the product descriptions), expect some variations in the form of knots, splits, nail holes, weathering. It’s part of the character! Custom sizes are available on request, though lead times will vary based on when you order.

Conscious Qualities: Reclaimed Old-Growth Wood, Hand-Welded Steel, VOC-Free Finish, Handcrafted in Chicago

Price Range: $1,125 (bar table) – $5,185 (solid walnut trestle dining table)
Shipping: Ships within U.S.

Best for a Zero Waste Cofee Table: Avocado

Sustainable wood tables from Avocado

Founded as a non-toxic mattress brand, Avocado has now expanded into a variety of sustainable and non-toxic furniture like beds, dressers, and of course tables.

Their collection of eco-friendly tables includes accent tables, side tables, benches & stools, and a beautiful zero waste coffee table. Every table is made to order in the company’s Los Angeles woodshop from either reclaimed wood, FSC-Certified solid wood, or even 100% upcycled wood (which is not particleboard or fiberboard).

The Sustainable Furnishings Council member also uses non-toxic finishes and glues, like zero-VOC stain and safe odorless glues. And, Avocado offsets more than 100% of their emissions and has several product- factory- and company-level certifications of note.

Conscious Qualities: Made-To-Order In Avocado’s Own LA Woodshop; Uses Reclaimed and Sustainably-Sourced Materials; Non-Toxic Finishes; Renewable Energy-Powered Operations

Price Range: $699 – $1,299 for coffee tables
Shipping: Ships furniture within the contiguous U.S.

Best Locally Sourced Coffee Table: Sylvan Craft

sustainable wooden coffee table from Sylvan Craft

Perhaps you’ve heard of slow fashion or slow food — well Sylvan Craft is the epitome of slow furniture with their “Forest to Table” approach.

Sylvan Craft’s heirloom-quality tables (and other furniture) are all crafted with care from solid wood by their Amish business partner. And it’s not just any wood — this is wood that was sourced from Sylvan Craft’s own sustainably managed forest. Since their entire process from harvest to finished furniture takes place within a 5 mile radius, this “hyper-local” business also boasts a small carbon footprint and impressive average 8-10 week lead times on delivery. Blanket-wrapped shipping also minimizes packaging waste.

On a mission to preserve and restore forests through sustainable forestry and land management, Sylvan Craft has a meticulous forest management plan that centers on forest health. They employ selective harvesting (i.e. prioritizing damaged or dead trees for their wood), plant a variety of tree species to promote forest biodiversity, and use low-impact timber removal practices instead of heavy machinery.

Sylvan Craft’s selection of sustainably-crafted tables includes end tables, sofa tables, coffee tables, dining tables, and benches.

Conscious Qualities: Sustainable Forestry Management, Hyper-Local, Traceable Supply Chain, Heirloom Quality, VOC-Free Finish Option

Price Range: $975 – $1350 for coffee tables

Best For Extendable Dining Tables: Copeland

walnut extendable sustainable dining table

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly dining table with a bit more flexibility, Copeland is going to be your best bet. The sustainable furniture company has solid wood tables in walnut, oak, and cherry wood available with leafs. Some table styles even have a double leaf extension for accommodating extra large dinner parties.

Copeland’s furniture is made-to-order in Bradford, Vermont and the company sources most of their wood within 500 miles of the factory. Speaking of Copeland’s factory, the brand doesn’t stop at sourcing sustainable materials but also has a solar array installed on the factory’s property and uses wood waste to heat the building. And the tables are low-toxic with a GREENGUARD certified finish.

Conscious Qualities: Domestically Sourced Hardwood, Made in the US, Made-to-Order, Durable, GREENGUARD Certified Finishes

Price Range: $1,126 (dining table without extension) – $5,056 (double leaf extension table)
Shipping: Ships within contiguous U.S. (contact for quotes to ship elsewhere)

Best Non-Toxic Coffee Table: Savvy Rest

walnut eco-friendly coffee table made with non-toxic finishes

Non-toxic furniture brand Savvy Rest has a simple timeless coffee table made in Central Virginia from solid wood. Each table is made with responsibly-sourced maple — a durable yet lightweight hardwood — and is available unfinished or in a variety of zero-VOC finishes: linseed oil, walnut, cedar, or mahogany.

Conscious Qualities: Zero-VOC Finishes, Local Production, Sustainably-Sourced Wood

Price Range: $799 – $874 for coffee table (Use code CONSCIOUSSTYLE20 for 20% off)
Shipping: Free White Glove delivery within continental U.S.; contact for quotes outside 48 contiguous states

Best Affordable Coffee Table: Sabai

eco-friendly coffee table made from recycled steel and wood - Sabai

Sabai is a leader in sustainable furniture with their use of eco-conscious materials, ethical production practices, and low-waste shipping. Not to mention they’re committed to circularity with both a repair program and a resale program, called Sabai Revive.

Their City Table is so exception. This eco-friendly coffee table is made using recycled steel, wood sourced from urban fallen trees in Baltimore and a non-toxic, zero VOC water-based finish. Did we mention the brand is also a certified B-Corporation?

Conscious Qualities: Recycled & Natural Materials, Zero VOC Finish, Circularity Program

Price: $625
Shipping: Ships to U.S. and Canada

We hope you enjoyed this guide to sustainable tables! Looking for more furniture & home furnishings?

Check Out These Sustainable Home Guides:

15 Ethical Home Decor Brands for Your Conscious Space

The Best Places to Find Eco-Friendly Furniture

Sustainable Non-Toxic Sofas for Truly Restful Relaxation

The post 7 Sustainable Solid Wood Dining and Coffee Tables Built to Last appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.

7 Sustainable Solid Wood Dining and Coffee Tables Built to Last

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2022 BreakingClimateChange.com