Many wrapping materials are single-use and made of plastic, like glossy wrapping paper or glittery holiday bows. Below are some easy swaps for packaging gifts that will make your holiday season greener.
Your wrapping can actually be a gift itself. Use scarves, tea towels, or cloth napkins to wrap gifts. This Japanese wrapping technique can be beautiful and reusable. By wrapping your gifts in t-shirts, blankets, bandanas, scarves, or dish towels, you can cut down on holiday waste and deliver two gifts in one!
You can also purchase reusable cloth gift wraps from many retailers, so you can store them with your holiday gear and reuse them every season.
Consider purchasing reusable boxes for your holiday gifting. These items are sturdier than your average cardboard box and come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and styles.
Unlike single-use boxes, these boxes can then be used to store and organize items around your home or can be saved for next year’s gifting!
By wrapping your gifts in paper bags or old shipping boxes, you are giving those materials a second life! Paper bags with patterns or store logos can easily be turned inside-out for a simple, minimalist style. When you’re done, these bags can be placed in the recycling bin.
Switch out those plastic ribbons and bows for twine or string made from natural fibers. There are typically plastic-free options made from wool, hemp, or cotton.
Filling glass jars with fun things like hot cocoa or brownie mix is a great way to add a personal touch to any holiday event. For smaller gifts place items in metal tins, adding a ribbon or twine for decoration. Bonus, it’s also an easy way to reuse old jars or tins that you might have lying around your house.
You can also make your own pickles, candied nuts, and spice mixes to fill your jars with custom creations!
Opt for fabric or durable bags that can be used multiple times. Unlike disposable bags, reusable gift bags reduce waste, making them a great sustainable choice. Fabric bags are more durable than paper and can hold heavier or oddly-shaped items without tearing. They also come in various colors, patterns and textures, offering an elegant and personalized touch.
Use vintage maps, comics, or newspaper pages for a rustic, recycled look. Maps add a sense of nostalgia and adventure, while newspaper pages offer a vintage or modern monochrome aesthetic. Using these items is an economical way to wrap gifts, especially if you already have them at home.
It’s easy to make simple changes to our holiday traditions that can have a big impact. These small sustainable swaps will make your holidays greener and help Take Care of Texas!
