7 Must-Have Eco-Friendly Summer Items

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Summer is a fantastic time for fun in the sun, beach trips, woodland walks, long bike rides, water fights and outdoor adventures, however, these activities can often come with a downside – an increase in waste and environmental impact. Thankfully, these days there are plenty of reusable and eco-friendly alternatives to single-use and chemical-laden products. By choosing some of these you will not only be helping to reduce your carbon footprint, but you’ll also find many of these items are more convenient and cost-effective in the long run. Here are seven must-have eco-friendly summer items that I would recommend trying to make the switch to…

1. Reusable Water Balloons

Traditional single-use water balloons have long been known as great fun, cheap to buy and a quick way of cooling down on a hot day but they create a significant amount of plastic waste and that plastic will take 500+ years to breakdown… Into smaller plastics. However, the better option is now here – reusable water balloons! These innovative “balloons” can be filled, thrown and refilled multiple times for years to come. Made from silicone, they are durable, easy to clean and eliminate the need for single-use plastic balloons. No clean up, no mess, no disappointment when it’s all over, just endless water fights without the environmental guilt. We have the Soppycid Reusable Water Balloons and I can give you 15% off with my code EMMAREED15.

Benefits: Cost-effective, easy to clean and no plastic waste.

2. Reusable Swim Nappies

For parents with little ones, reusable swim nappies are a game-changer. Unlike disposable swim nappies, reusable options can be washed and used repeatedly, handed down to other children or sold on after use. They are so much better for the planet than single-use ones which are lined with plastic plus they are better for your baby’s skin, and of course, they are also more cost-effective in the long run. Brands like Bambino Mio and Splash About offer a great variety of stylish and functional designs.

Benefits: More comfortable for babies, secure fit, cost-effective over time.

3. Scrunch Buckets

Beach trips and outdoor play often involve plastic toys that quickly break and end up in landfill or as tiny plastic pieces left on the sand. ScrunchKids offer a fantastic alternative – beach buckets that scrunch! Made from food-grade silicone, these foldable, durable buckets are perfect for sandcastles, water play, and more. They can be rolled, squished and packed easily, making them convenient for travel and storage.

Benefits: Durable, travel-friendly, multi-purpose.

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4. Reusable Picnic Products

Picnics are a quintessential summer activity, but they often generate a lot of waste from clingfilm to disposable plates, cups and utensils. By switching to handy reusable picnic products like reusable sandwich bags, containers, pots and Stasher bags you will be making such a difference… And again, saving yourself money.

Benefits: Reduces waste, cost-effective, durable and reusable.

5. Reusable Swimwear Period Products

Summer usually involves swimming which can be challenging when you are menstruating but did you know that period-proof swimwear now exists?! Brands like WUKA, offer this sustainable and comfortable product in the form of both swimming costumes and bikini pants which are ideal for lighter days. If you feel as though you’d want something a little more protective for your heavier days you could opt for a menstrual cup. This is used in a similar way to a tampon but instead of throwing it away, you wash it out and reuse it as and when required. I love mine from Ruby Cup, it is easy to use and very comfortable. You can read my full review here. Products like these will not only reduce waste but also provide long-term savings.

Benefits: Comfortable, reliable, better for vaginal health, cost-effective, eco-friendly.

6. Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protecting your skin from the sun is crucial, but many conventional sunscreens contain chemicals that harm coral reefs and marine life. Opt for reef-safe sunscreens that use mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Brands such as Green People, Badger and Raw Elements offer effective, eco-friendly sunscreens that protect both your skin and the ocean. Look for products that do not contain Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Octocrylene, Triclosan, Homosalate, 4-methyl benzylidene camphor, PABA, Parabens, Zinc or titanium nanoparticles (no nano is fine) and microplastics to ensure you are making a responsible choice.

I posted about this over on Instagram last year and here you can find 40 reef-safe sunscreens to choose from:

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Benefits: Protects marine life, safe for sensitive skin, effective sun protection.

7. Eco-Friendly Insect Repellent

Summer evenings are perfect for outdoor gatherings, but they can also bring unwanted mosquito bites. Traditional insect repellents often contain harmful chemicals like DEET so steer clear of these and choose an eco-friendly insect repellent made from natural ingredients such as citronella, eucalyptus and lemon balm. Brands like Incognito roll on, Murphy’s Naturals and Badger offer effective natural insect repellents that are safe for both you and the environment.

Benefits: Non-toxic, safe for all ages, effective.

So, there we have it, 7 fantastic eco-friendly must-have items that will make your summer more sustainable, more affordable and less wasteful. Which one will you try first?

*This post contains affiliate links which means I will earn a small commission if you purchase via them. This does not affect your shopping experience or how much you pay. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.

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