15 Sustainable Gift Ideas Under $50
Affordable Gifts We Love
During gift-giving season, we look to brands who create thoughtful keepsakes and provide us with the opportunity to give back with our purchases. But in addition to being conscious of our values, we still need to be conscious of our budgets. Below is our roundup of gifts under $50 from brands that are fair trade, handmade, or sustainable, and all are on a mission to make the world a better place.
Looking for more ethically made and sustainable gifts for the holiday season? Check out our 2021 guide to the best sustainable gifts (and best gifts for him, too). Happy giving!
A pro tip: Consider doing your holiday shopping with Aspiration, a sustainable banking alternative, and plant a tree with every purchase!
1. Super Fruit Spa Duo | 100% PURE
For the one person who does it all, this mini-spa set is a soothing way to enjoy some self-care. The kit includes 100% Pure’s best-selling super fruit facial oil and cream, both of which are vegan, cruelty-free, and natural. (And the set is more than 30 percent off the retail price!) Offer rest and rejuvenation this time of year.
Shop | $42
2. Paint Your Pet Experience | Uncommon Goods
Give the gift of memories with a chance to paint a pet. This unique experience from Uncommon Goods includes a watercolor kit mailed to you beforehand and a hands-on 90-minute class with an experienced art teacher. It’s the purr-fect gift of a lifetime.
Shop | $50
3. Arch Propagation Kit | Bloomscape
Go from one plant to a whole nursery with a propagation kit! Just add a clipping to this gorgeously crafted terrazzo stand and glass tube and let nature work its magic. The kit also includes rooting hormone and a step-by-step guide. What a beauty it’ll be on any countertop.
Shop | $35
4. Midi Hoops | Mejuri
For everyday earrings, we’re big fans of Mejuri’s minimalist pieces. These simple yet stunning Midi Hoops are made with gold vermeil, layering ethically sourced 18K gold on sterling silver, so they’re sure to last. (Just to be sure, Mejuri offers free 60 day returns and a two year warranty.) They’re also great for second lobe piercings.
Shop | $50
5. Rippled Bud Vase | Maid2Love Creations
Transform any space with these gorgeous earth-toned vases. Each one is 3D printed using biodegradable materials, and it’s made-to-order just for you (or your recipient!). Choose from one of five sizes and four neutral colors (black, tan, gray, brown). Shipping is free, carbon-neutral, and arrives in under 10 business days.
Shop | $19+
6. Blanket Made From Recycled Fibers | Happy Earth
Snuggle in this season with one of these Mexican-inspired blankets from Happy Earth. With a range of gorgeous color patterns, this blanket is made with 100 percent recycled and reclaimed fibers, and is sent in recyclable packaging. Plus, your purchase helps either plant 15 trees, prevent 150 pounds of emissions, or remove a pound of ocean trash—you decide!
Shop | $42
7. Reusable Facial Rounds | cocokind
Skincare aficionados and makeup lovers alike will love these zero-waste facial rounds from cocokind. Instead of relying on disposable cotton pads, these are made with reusable bamboo and cotton. Once used, put them in the mesh bag and throw them in the wash. (The best kind of present is one you can use over and over again, right?)
Shop | $18
8. DIY Embroidery Kit | Create the Culture
For the pop culture stan in your life, you can’t go wrong with one of these DIY embroidery kits from Krystle Collins. From Maya Angelou and Angela Davis to Beyonce and Biggie, there’s an iconic design for everyone, or you can purchase a completed piece instead. A wonderful activity for your hands—and to hang on the wall.
Shop | $20+
9. The Vegan Set | Omsom
Omsom brings the loud, proud flavors of Asian cooking right to your home with its starters. This 100 percent vegan set includes Chinese, Filipino, Korean, and Japanese packets, each inspired by signature dishes like Sisig and Bulgogi. With 12 starters total and suggested recipes from acclaimed East & Southeast Asian chefs, you can enjoy up to 24 delicious meals.
Shop | $45
10. Hit Snooze Travel Eye Mask | ADAY
It’s been a year to say the least. Gift sleep to those who need it with this travel eye mask, especially those heading near and far for the holidays. This cutely designed mask is made with 90 percent Lenzing modal, a plant-based fabric, and 10 percent Spandex for just the right amount of stretch. Sweet dreams. 💤
Shop | $28
11. Curve Clip | Chunks
Hair clips and claws are back in, baby! We love this eclectic design from Chunks, which proudly supports responsible manufacturing in China and prioritizes eco-friendly materials. This gorgeous Curve Clip works on both fine and thick hair, however you like to style it! Mix and match with Chunks’ other one-of-a-kind styles.
Shop | $14
12. Create-A-Candle | Made by DWC
The only gift better than a candle? Getting to make your own! This kit includes supplies to make three candles, in either “Night Blooming Jasmine” or “White Sage & Lavender'' scents. (Not into DIY? Choose from one of Made By DWC’s aromatic soy candles instead.) This LA-based nonprofit supports houseless women, and your purchase helps provide gainful employment.
Shop | $48
13. Zero Waste Lunch Kit | Package Free
Kids and adults alike will love this Zero Waste Lunch Kit, especially as we head back into the world. The kit includes a bamboo cutlery set, a stainless steel container, organic hankie, a reusable silicone sandwich bag, and a product bag to carry everything in. They’ll never need disposable spoons or plastic to-go containers again.
Shop | $50
14. Pinafore Apron Dress | Wilshire Goods Shop
Part-apron, part-dress, this cottagecore-inspired piece can do it all. It’s the present for someone who’s...well, looking to stay in the present. The dress is easy to throw on for gardening, cooking, and painting or just layering for extra warmth. So versatile and lovely.
Shop | $17.50
15. Organic Tea Sampler | Arbor Teas
For the friend who swore off coffee this year (or for the friend who just loves a cuppa!), treat them to a delightful tea sampler set from Arbor Teas. Every tea is certified Fair Trade and USDA organic, wrapped in compostable packaging, and carbon-free. Choose from Japanese green teas, decaf teas, English favorites, Indian black teas and more—or pick one of each.
Shop | $12–$15
The Good Trade editors endorse products we genuinely love. If you end up making a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. Learn more here.
