Want a Healthy and Earth-Friendly Home? These Products Can Help

While recycling at home has become second nature for many of us, sorting and organizing materials can be confusing. And keeping multiple bins around tends to take up valuable kitchen space and often looks unsightly. But thanks to the new Caraway Trash & Recycling Bin Duo, implementing a recycling and waste management plan at home is straightforward.

The slim profile bins seamlessly fit into any kitchen and are fingerprint-resistant. The larger trash bins accommodate 13-gallon bags, and the recycling bins feature two drawers for multiple sorting options.

“I have a tiny kitchen, but the slim profile makes it easy to fit these into even small spaces,” says editor Katie Tuttle. “The recycling bins especially hold a lot for their size, and the drawers are so easy to remove and clean.”

The bins are available in several colors, such as cream, black, and stone. And their attractive design is a nice alternative to bulky kitchen bins. “I’ve actually had multiple people ask about these since I put them in my kitchen,” Tuttle says.

As a home cook, I’m constantly reaching for a cutting board. But it can be challenging to find one that’s stable, easy to maintain, microplastic-free, and can handle sharp knives.

This cutting board set from Full Circle has changed the way I meal prep. The set features three various-sized boards made from nontoxic bonded kraft paper. They’re also dishwasher-safe, which reduces handwashing and gives me peace of mind when I’m cutting raw meat.

The non-skid corner grips add stability on countertops, and the juice grooves capture excess spillage. The convenient wooden stand stores the slim profile cutting boards upright and saves valuable counter space. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants a no-fuss, microplastic-free cutting board set. 

Whether we’re simmering a fall-off-the-bone braise or making a chicken stock, a Dutch oven is a kitchen savior. For the friend who’s in the market for one, we highly recommend this 6-quart (qt) Dutch oven from Lodge.

This generously sized vessel is the perfect pot for soups, stews, and bread-making. The cast-iron body boasts excellent heat retention, and the porcelain enamel finish makes cleaning off those stubborn seared bits a breeze.

Editor Nicole Bonaccorso likes the wide handles that help with lifting. She also likes the low-maintenance, nonstick enamel finish, which doesn’t require seasoning like many other raw, cast-iron pieces of cookware. It’s also American-made and available in a range of colors to complement just about any kitchen.

Cooking with nonstick cookware makes meal prep and cleaning up a little easier. That’s why we’re loving the GreenPan Studio 12-Piece Ceramic Nonstick Cookware Set.

This set covers your everyday cooking needs with two saucepans, a stockpot, a sauté pan with lids, two frying pans, and two bamboo utensils to help protect the surface over time. It’s also PFAS-free, meaning it’s made without the “forever chemicals” often found in traditional nonstick goods — making it a more-thoughtful swap for everyday cooking.

Editor Ashley Ziegler regularly cooks with this set at home with her family. “The pans heat evenly and the handles stay cool,” she sats. The pots are oven-safe up to 600 degrees F, and the lids are oven-safe up to 425 degrees F, which is great for high-heat cooking. Overall, this set is a practical, PFAS-free upgrade they’ll use every day.

Households that love to party without the single-use plastic guilt might want to try Repurpose Compostable Party Products. Repurpose touts numerous sustainable flatware and household options that are all plant-based, nontoxic, and compost-friendly. These include stemless wine cups, dinner plates, straws, and even toilet paper.

Tuttle tested the plates and cups, and she says that “it’s nice having an option for parties that doesn’t feel quite so wasteful.” They’re sturdy enough for real use, but still easy to toss when the night’s over.

Customers can subscribe and save every one, two, three, or four months, or purchase as needed. For anyone looking to throw a greener gathering, this is a practical swap.

Pet owners know that fur (and the dust and dander that comes with it) has a way of getting everywhere. This cordless Kenmore vacuum makes it easier to stay on top of it, thanks to strong suction and a tangle-resistant nozzle designed for pet hair.

Editorial director Simone Scully put the Kenmore Elite to the test, and she was impressed: “From the minute you turn it on, you can feel the suction, especially when you use it on carpet. And it did a phenomenal job at vacuuming up dust, pet hair, crumbs, some plant dirt, fluff from a dog toy my puppy tore up, and more.”

It also features a HEPA filter to help trap dust and dander, which can make a noticeable difference in indoor air quality. For pet-owner households searching for a powerful vacuum, the Kenmore Elite can handle that pesky pet hair and more.

If you want to cut back on harsh cleaners, think about trying the Biom Standard All-Purpose Wipes. These cleaning wipes are a favorite in my house. They’re made with plant-based ingredients and are biodegradable and microplastic-free. Plus, the brand’s refillable dispenser helps cut down on waste over time.

Editor Lili Ladaga and I were impressed with how effective the wipes are at tackling sticky counters, dirty hands, and stainless steel smudges. “I used these wipes to clean off my kitchen stove, and they really blew me away. [They] cut through old grease and food stains immediately, and didn't leave a residue. I was skeptical that botanical wipes would be able to do that, but they worked so well,” says Ladaga.

The dispenser is easy to refill and actually looks nice enough to leave on the counter — something Ladaga appreciated, saying it “feels and looks elevated and pricey.”

It may sound odd, but I enjoy cleaning with Koala Eco products. When I first stumbled upon the Koala Eco Kitchen Cleaner, I was immediately drawn to the enticing, bright, citrus scents of Australian lemon myrtle and mandarin.

This cleaning spray performs, too. With just one or two spritzes, my counters are squeaky clean, my electric range gleams, and my sink shines. The other products work as well; the dish soap tackles my food-laden flatware, and the hand soap cleans our hands without any dryness.

Koala Eco products are made in the U.S. with high-grade Australian essential oils, and they feature plant-based and natural ingredients. The bottles are recycled and refillable as well, so you can feel better about using plastic bottles. They’re perfect for anyone who appreciates clean household products with uplifting scents.

Like many folks, I’m trying to purchase fewer single-use plastic products. So when I came across the Blueland Dish Soap Starter Set, I was curious. The set features a one-time purchase of a refillable “forever shaker” and a compostable pouch of dish powder.

This nontoxic powder formula is impressive, especially when used on tough grease and stained glassware. Blueland Dish Soap easily removes stubborn residue from my air fryer basket, and it leaves my glassware streak-free and crystal clear. The shaker is lightweight, and it’s easy to “shake” out the powder or refill it. It’s become my go-to for cutting down on grease and plastic waste.

With the Branch Basics Ultimate Starter Set, all of your household cleaning needs are covered safely and effectively. This set includes a plant-based liquid cleaning-solution concentrate that dilutes with water and acts as a multipurpose house cleaner. The set includes several spray bottles for your bathroom, glass, and all-purpose cleaning needs. It also includes a hand soap, laundry detergent, a laundry oxygen boost formula, and dishwashing tablets.

Bonaccorso tested the starter kit, and she liked the versatility of using one solution for different cleaning purposes. “I'm thrilled that these products are safe for kids and pets,” she says. “It’s fragrance-free — a big plus for me since I'm sensitive to scents. Plus, it works well.”

Maybe you’ve tried plant-based laundry detergent in the past and have been disappointed. If you’re looking to shake up your laundry routine, we recommend giving Root & Splendor’s Ultra-Concentrated Liquid Laundry Detergent a try.

With this 100% all-natural laundry formula, you use 1 tablespoon (tbsp) per load. It includes five active enzymes and is hypoallergenic and safe for all washing machines.

Bonaccorso tested this detergent, and she was impressed with the results. “My clothes came out of the wash fresh and clean,” she says.

It comes packaged in a bag-in-the-box design, which can help cut down on plastic compared with traditional jugs. The detergent is available in several blended scents, such as lemongrass, bergamot, and cedarwood, or frankincense, basil, and lime. For those who prefer unscented products, there’s also a “Free & Clear” version that's verified by the Environmental Working Group (EWG).

This air purifier is on the smaller side, so it’s not obtrusive, yet it doesn’t lack power. It touts a three-stage filtration system to trap and reduce nanoparticles found in the air. It has three speeds, plus an auto setting, an ion filtration mode, and a convenient timer.

I particularly like the useful indicator light that automatically changes from blue, purple, or red depending on the indoor pollution level. Plus, the helpful filter replacement light glows when it’s time for a new filter.

The Coway Airmega Mighty helps cut down on indoor pet hair, dust, cooking odors, mold, and pollen. And I love knowing that my family is literally breathing a little easier.

Imagine having fresh produce any time of year. If you lack a proper greenhouse, don’t despair. With The Rise Garden 3 hydroponic garden, you can enjoy the “fruits” of your labor indoors and all year long.

The Rise Garden 3 is for the more-serious at-home gardener. This expandable hydroponic garden touts three levels for maximized garden efforts. It’s outfitted with 195-watt power lighting plus LED lights, and a 9-gallon water tub for essential plant growth. The set includes 48 plants and can accommodate up to 100 plants, with a potential harvest of up to 40 pounds (lbs) of produce a month.

“What I love about this garden is that you’re able to grow a lot of produce without it looking out of place or ugly in your kitchen thanks to its cabinet design,” says Scully. “It’s also super-easy to tend or harvest everything.”

Ziegler and her husband liked both the packaging and the contents. The set arrives in a sturdy box tied with a ribbon and fresh lavender, and it's “filled with fun gifts for a gardener, like seeds, shears, a little pot, a candle, pesto, and more,” says Ziegler. The 60-hour burning “plant the box” candle is packaged in a plantable paper-seeded box that grows either tomatoes, lavender, or sunflowers — so your recipient will have a budding surprise.

Whether you’re a competitive athlete or a power walker, your feet deserve cushioning when you exercise. That’s why we’re sliding on a pair of the Jogology High-Cushion No-Show Running Socks.

Editor Katrina Cossey sported these socks during her workouts, and now she never wants to take them off. “They're really plush, and I actually feel comfortable not wearing slippers at home — a huge deal, because I have plantar fasciitis,” she says.

The Jogology socks are highly cushioned, anatomically shaped to match your left and right feet, and have a seamless toe for extra comfort. They’re naturally sweat-wicking and made from a patented and breathable recycled polyester, so you can stay comfortable no matter where the day takes you.

Savor that magical feeling of a summer sailing adventure with the Sea Bags Vintage Red Crew Backpack. The 18-liter (L) Vintage Crew is made from vintage sailing cloths, lined with a recycled polyester fabric, and finished with padded shoulder straps for durability and comfort.

The backpack is pricey at nearly $200, but Bonaccorso “fell in love” with the bag and the sustainable concept. “I like that this is made from a recycled sail. It makes you feel like you're doing something good for the environment, but also it's an awesome conversation piece,” she says. Even the little marks in the fabric add an interesting touch, she adds.

After toting it around, Bonaccorso says the backpack is perfect for “someone who loves vintage conversation pieces, recycled materials,” and supporting “small, sustainable businesses.”

There's nothing like wrapping yourself up in a luxury robe after a revitalizing bath or shower, and we’re happily slipping into the Quince Organic Turkish Waffle Robe. Made from 100%-organic Turkish cotton, the Quince robe comes at a very moderate price point and feels great to wear.

Tuttle loved the material, the mid-weight feel, and the style. “It hits at about the mid-shin, so it provides coverage without being too restrictive,” and the “minimalist aesthetic” reminds her of “something you'd find at a spa,” she says. The fabric is neither flimsy nor thick, and it's absorbent, too, she adds. It’s available in white, ivory, and gray. Plus, the two generous patch pockets are a nice touch as well. 

Whenever we’re traveling, we’re somehow always short on suitcase space, especially when it comes to bulky personal products. But with the Small Wonder Signature Shampoo & Conditioner Minis, your hair-care routine is taken care of wherever the destination may be.

The Small Wonder Minis include a lightweight shampoo and conditioning powder formula that’s activated with water and cuts down on excess packaging and weight. The formula is color-safe and free of parabens and sulfates. The minis are perfect for travel without the worry of liquid spilling in your suitcase. (We’ve all been there.) It’s also TSA-approved, which means it’s definitely getting a permanent spot in our dopp kits.

Writer and tester Zak Slavik appreciated the effective powder formula. “I liked that I needed less of the product and it truly cleaned my hair,” he says. It “makes your hair softer” without the heft of traditional plastic shampoo and conditioner sets. For folks searching for environmentally-conscious, high-quality hair products, these minis hit the mark.

When our hair needs a quick and clean moisture boost, we are blissfully misting this product on our locks. Ouai’s Leave-In Conditioner is a versatile multi-tasker. It helps de-tangle, hydrate, and fight frizz.

Writer and tester Raki Swanson was instantly impressed with how well it managed her curly, dry tresses. “Your hair is left so soft and moisturized,” she says. “I have a lot of hair that’s naturally dry and needs a lot of management to make it seem tame. This adds enough moisture to your hair without weighing it down.”

If Ouai’s performance isn’t appealing enough, the scent will be. It has a sophisticated floral and beachy aroma, and it’s paraben-, phthalate-, and SLS-free.

My daughter and I are fans as well. She uses it as a detangler for her gnarls. And I like how well it fights frizz and holds my waves, especially on low-maintenance hair days when I don’t feel like blow-drying. The Ouai Leave-In Conditioner is truly a multipurpose, clean-hair elixir that can help cut down on your need for multiple styling products.

We love incorporating a facial cleansing balm into our skin-care routine, such as the K-Beauty Banila Co Clean-it-Zero Best-of-Balms Trio. The set includes three travel-sized balms: an original, a skin-brightening vitamin C balm, and a pore-cleansing balm. All products are dermatologist-tested, paraben-free, and suitable for oily, combination, acne-prone, or dry skin. Plus, they include natural ingredients like tea tree oil.

Editor, writer, and tester Alexandra Klausner sampled the trio. “It made my skin clean and shiny, and didn't cause any breakouts or irritation, which is nice because all three balms cost less than $20,” she says.

Enter the Mando Deodorant Starter Kit, a sweat- and body odor–control set designed for your entire body. The comprehensive set includes whole-body deodorant, aluminum-free spray deodorant, acidified body wash, an acidified cleansing bar, and acidified deodorant wipes.

Mando products are designed to block bacteria that produce body odor and provide long-lasting protection. The deodorant stick and spray are designed to protect against body odor for up to 72 hours.

Tester Seth Modglin never felt the need to reapply, despite intensive work days. He was impressed with the overall odor control, and he was particularly fond of the acidified cleansing bar, which he has repurchased since testing.

For the person who prefers aluminum-free personal products, the Mando Deodorant Starter Kit earns a spot on our list.

Is there anything better than slipping into cool sheets at the end of the day? If so, you’ll find the Coyuchi Crinkled Organic-Cotton Percale Sheet Set makes bedtime even more pleasant.

The sheets are made from 100-percent organic cotton that’s Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)-certified. They’re crafted to some of the strictest environmental textile standards in the world, which include organic, traceable, and responsible farming and milling. The neutral tones — such as hazel chambray, Alpine white, and sage — immediately elicit calming sleepy time vibes

The linen-like texture is also refreshingly cooling and soft on the skin. “These [sheets] are very breathable, light, and great for the summer,” says Bonaccorso. They’re inviting and upscale, and she says that the crinkly texture creates a very welcoming, lived-in look.

We always appreciate a lounging-in-bed moment, and that’s why we’re nestling into the Helix Birch Plush Organic Mattress Topper. It sits between your mattress and sheets, and it offers cushion and comfort while contouring your body for pressure relief. It’s made from organic cotton and latex, is free of formaldehyde and pesticides, and is third-party certified by the Global Organic Latex SStandard.

“I love that it is made with natural and organic materials; that’s super-important to me whenever I am purchasing something bedding-related,” says writer and tester Julia Childs Heyl. “It was nice and cozy, and gave a plush feel while still offering solid support.”

Meet the Avocado Green Mattress. It’s made in the U.S. and ticks off plenty of boxes when it comes to strict manufacturing practices. Avocado mattresses are GOTS-certified, EWG-verified, and are third party–tested for other standards, such as Made Safe, a nontoxic certification program.

The mattresses are naturally cooling and available in five different comfort levels.

Scully tested the medium-firm mattress with the pillow top. “Lying down on it, you can feel the softness along with the firmness of the springs, so you still feel supported,” she says.