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After having “high-waisted 100% linen trousers on my wishlist for years, I finally decided to take the plunge an invest in a quality, sustainable pair this summer. Since I already spent hours of research vetting brands for my own purposes, I thought I’d share my findings with you too.

In this guide, you’ll find a curated list of more sustainable linen trousers. I know how much time it takes to vet through dozens of brands and hundreds of products, so I’ve done that work for you.

Here’s what “sustainable linen trousers” means to me:

I know the word sustainable gets thrown around all the time and you may have become suspicious of that term. While there is no single agreed-upon definition, I’ve been researching, writing about, and working in this space for 10 years — and this is how I interpret the term for linen trousers. And for the record, this isn’t all or nothing! The more elements a brand has, the better — it’s not that if a brand is missing one item from the list, it’s “unsustainable.”

Sustainable linen trousers means:

Made with 100% linen

Where possible I avoid blends with synthetic fibers (like polyester) which are derived from fossil fuels. I even prefer a 100% linen fabric over a linen-cotton blend, because single-fiber fabrics are also easier to recycle at the end of their life.

Organic or OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 Certified

Natural fibers can still be grown with synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and herbicides. So organic is preferable, though admittedly rare when it comes to linen. That means for linen, I’ll look for the OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification, which tests products for 100+ common harmful substances including heavy metals, Azo dyes, and formaldehyde.

Quality construction

This may be difficult to determine online, so I’ll look to reviews for this. If in person or trying the garment on, look for even stitching and reinforced or strong seams, especially at stress points (like the crotch area). The trousers should fit well: they shouldn’t pull or pucker, they shouldn’t bunch in the back, and you’ll want to be able to sit and move comfortably. Keep in mind, though, that trousers are usually made with mass-produced sizing systems. So even a quality pair may not fit perfectly — that’s what tailors are for!

Lower-impact dyes and dyeing processes

This includes dyes that require less water in the dyeing process, dyes with few to no toxic chemicals, and dyeing processes that minimize or eliminate effluent. Undyed linen can also be beautiful.

Fair labor

Ethics are part of sustainability — does the brand consider safe labor conditions, ensure worker rights, and fair wages? What specifics do they give and how do they ensure those standards are being met?

My Picks for More Sustainable Linen Trousers

Again, the sustainability journey isn’t all or nothing — these are elements I look for when checking brands but a brand may not meet every single element. Sustainability in your own life is also about finding trousers that you actually enjoy wearing and that suit your style too.

So if choosing between a brand that meets 100% of the criteria but you won’t actually wear their trouesrs often because they’re not your style vs. a brand that meets 70% of the criteria but you’ll wear those a hundred times, I would go with the latter.

Note that some of these links are affiliate links. As always, I only feature brands I love and meet my own sustainability criteria that I would share regardless.

1. The RealReal

(Secondhand First!)

Part of a holistic approach to sustainable fashion is a secondhand first mindset. After exploring what we have, choosing pre-loved is our next best bet.

I found a number of 100% linen trousers in popular brands like Reformation and Faithfull the Brand on The RealReal. Before adding to bag, check the measurements (though these are sometimes inaccurate on secondhand sites) in addition to the size and double check that the item condition is something you feel comfortable with. ThredUp is another solid option with their 100% Linen filter!

Collection of secondhand linen trousers in beige, pink, white, and rust

2. Eileen Fisher

Size Range: XXS – 3XL

Eileen Fisher is a classic slow fashion option with a number of effortless linen trousers in classic fits. My pick would be their linen wide-leg trousers, which are pictured in their undyed option.

The New York-based brand’s trousers are made in Fair Trade Certified™ factories from organic linen. Additionally, the fabric is bluesign® APPROVED —a certification vetting for safe chemicals.

I also love that Eileen Fisher has several circularity programs in place, including their RENEW resale offering and “Waste No More” program.

Undyed organic linen trousers

3. Everlane

Size Range: 00-16

Everlane has several options for linen trousers (just go to the Fabric filter and select “Linen”) but for 100% linen, you can go for either The Linen Easy Pant (elastic waist) or The Linen Way-High® Drape Pant (non-elastic waist). I bought the drape pant because it could easily be dressed up for an evening out!

Both options are made with 100% European Flax™ Linen, which is extracted with a mechanical process for a lower impact and zero-waste operation.

High waisted sustainable linen trousers

4. notPERFECTLINEN

Size Range: XS – XXL

A Lithuanian brand known for their made-on-demand linen garments, notPERFECTLINEN is a slow fashion brand with trousers made with OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified linen.

For a casual option, you could opt for these trousers with an elastic waistband. The label also offers a non-elastic high-waisted pair that could be more versatile. All styles come in a diverse array of color and print options.

Because the pieces are crafted on a pre-order basis, you may just have to wait a bit for your pieces!

Red 100% linen trousers

5. Nettle Studios

Size Range: XS – 5XL

Natural doesn’t have to mean boring — San Francisco-based Nettle Studios has 100% linen trousers come in a variety of fun hues like lilac and chartreuse. The pants are even dyed locally in California!

What stands out most about this slow fashion brand, though, is their attention to inclusivity and thoughtful sizing. Not only do their easy-fit linen trousers come in sizes up to 5XL, but they offer four (!!) different inseam lengths.

Lilac linen trousers in plus sizes

6. Reformation

Size Range: 0-12 | some styles available in extended sizes (12-24) and petite sizing

Sustainable fashion staple Reformation has several options for 100% linen trousers in a range of styles, from loose and carefree to tailored and elevated.

But it’s not just about the materials — Reformation has an impressive climate plan, a roadmap to circularity, and is a member of the Fair Labor Association. If you want to really nerd out on this stuff, you can see their progress via the brand’s annual reports.

Natural linen trousers for summer

7. Magic Linen

Size Range: XS – XL

Another option for wide-leg linen trousers is Magic Linen. Made with 100% linen, their OEKO-TEX Standard 100 trousers are perfect for everything from lounging at home to dressing up on your summer vacation.

The trousers are made with mid-weight linen and are stone-washed for a broken-in feel from the first wear. I have linen bedsheets and curtains from Magic Linen that are both fantastic quality — and by the look of their 4.9-star shop rating, the garments seem to measure up just as well.

blue linen trousers and top made sustainably

And that’s a wrap for our guide to linen trousers! I hope that you’ll find a pair you’ll love in this guide. Keep in mind that linen is a natural fabric with “flaws” — like wrinkles — that add to its character! While I wouldn’t recommend linen for a work blazer, it can be beautiful in a trouser worn on a summer day or elevated with a strappy sandal and blouse for night.

To lengthen the life of your linen garments, wash on cold in a gentle cycle and hang-dry whenever you can.

Liked this guide? You may also enjoy…

The Best Linen Clothing Brands with Easy Breezy Beautiful Pieces

Sustainable Fashion Marketplaces for All-in-One Conscious Shopping

Sustainable Hats for Every Sunny Adventure

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How Toad&Co’s Clothes Help Everyone Enjoy the Outdoors

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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.

jacquard heartfelt hoodie from toad&co

Merino Heartfelt Hoodie

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.

person wearing white knitted alpineglo jumper from toad&co

Alpineglo Sweater

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.

printed floral chaka trousers from Toad&co

Chaka Wide-Leg Trousers

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.

people wearing reversible nomader jacket from toad&co

Nomader Reversible Jacket

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.

person wearing printed padded manzana jacket from toad&co

Manzana Quilted Jacket

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 pants from toad&coBalsam 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.

Balsam Cutoff Trousers

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.

kennicott shirt jacket from toad&co

Kennicott Shirt Jacket

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.

person wearing checked airsmyth shirt from toad&co

Airsmyth Shirt

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.

balsam trousers from toad&co

Balsam 5-Pocket Trousers

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.

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Green Living

50 DIY Christmas Presents Anyone Can Make

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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.

50 DIY Christmas Presents Anyone Can Make

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.

50 DIY Christmas Presents Anyone Can Make
  1. Bath salts
  2. DIY makeup like mascara/eyeliner, or lip to cheek
  3. Bath bombs
  4. Lip scrub
  5. Lip balm
  6. Face mask
  7. Body lotion
  8. Natural perfume
  9. Dry shampoo
  10. Shampoo bar
  11. Body soap
  12. Deodorant
  13. Rose water toner
  14. Hand-poured coconut/soy/beeswax candles 
  15. Simmer pot in a jar
  16. Cookie, brownie, soup mix or hot cocoa mix in a jar
  17. Handmade seasoning blends
  18. Vanilla extract
  19. Vegan caramels or plant-based butter wrapped in compostable parchment paper
  20. Herb or citrus infused olive oil
  21. Peanut butter + jam
  22. Beeswax wraps
  23. Apple or pumpkin butter
  24. Sourdough or no-knead artisan bread
  25. Finished embroidery hoops
  26. Embroidered pillows, tote bags, clothes or cloth napkins
  27. Sewn cotton rounds
  28. Knitted scarf, hat, gloves, sweater, or blanket
  29. Hand warmers
  30. Quilt blanet, quilted coat or quilted wallet
  31. Tie dyed secondhand silk scarves, clothing or sheets
  32. Hand painted or drawn artwork
  33. Air dry clay paint palette
  34. DIY wooden frame for paintings or print photos
  35. Handmade ceramics (mugs, chawan, chasen holder, vase, spoon rest, etc.)
  36. Woodworked items (birdhouse, shelving, bookcase, wall guitar mount)
  37. Carving wooden bowls by hand
  38. Natural branch coasters
  39. Plant propagations in one of these DIY planters
  40. Seed balls using native seeds
  41. Handwoven baskets or bowls
  42. Macrame produce bag
  43. Macrame plant hanger
  44. Fabric paper mache bowls
  45. Upcycled paper earring jewelry
  46. Clay earrings
  47. Handmade plush toys
  48. Felt ‘food’ toys
  49. Wooden toys (like vehicles, blocks, or dollhouses)
  50. Knit or crocheted baby clothes

What do you think of these DIY Christmas presents? Let me know in the comments!

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Green Living

8 Best Non Toxic Rugs For a Sustainable Home

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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.

8 Best Non Toxic Rugs For a Sustainable Home

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 CanalsNestig, 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.

Hook and Loom: 8 Best Non Toxic Rugs For a Sustainable Home

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

lorena canals non toxic rugs

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 

sabai non toxic rugs

3. sabai

  • Field rug
  • Woven using wool + jute
  • Available in 3 varying sizes
  • Rug pad add-on available for reduced movement
  • Certified B Corporation

quince 8 Best Non Toxic Rugs For a Sustainable Home

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

west elm non toxic rugs

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

nestig non toxic rugs

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

cold picnic non toxic rugs

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

loomy non toxic rugs

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!

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