Looking for sustainable kids gifts that are fun, practical, and planet-friendly? We're here to help!
Whether you're shopping for birthdays, Christmas, baby showers, or just a thoughtful surprise, choosing sustainable kids gifts is a beautiful way to show thought and care, not just to your little one, but also to the planet!
The truth is, the kid's gift industry has a serious plastic problem. In fact, around 90% of toys are made from plastic, and many are not designed for longesvity, quickly breaking down or being well outgrown before ending up in landfill.
According to the UN Environment Programme, plastic toys are among the most wasteful consumer products, contributing to the estimated 400 million tonnes of plastic waste generated globally each year! And in Australia, most plastic toys can’t be recycled in household bins, meaning they typically end up in landfill...
That’s why we’re sharing our favourite plastic-free and sustainable kids gifts. What's even better is that they're made by small Australia businesses who lovingly focus on quality, safety and longevity- the perfect kind of gift that for little bears and the planet.
Here's our top recommendations:
EcoCubs- Non-Toxic Dinnerware for Wild Little Cubs (obvi!)
At EcoCubs, we believe mealtimes should be safe, simple and sustainable. That’s why we’ve designed two beautiful, planet-friendly dinnerware ranges to suit babies, toddlers and wild little eaters of all kinds:
1. Stainless Steel Range
Our non-toxic, unbreakable stainless steel plates, bowls and utensils are perfect for those extra wild little bears (like ours!). They’re dishwasher-safe, BPA-free and built to last, without a single piece of plastic. Made using the highest quality food grade stainless steel, they are 100% recyclable in your Aussie kerbside recycling bin! Not only can it be recycled just once, but again and again and again!
2. Plant-Based Bamboo Range
EcoCubs bamboo dinnerware is not your average bamboo range! While most bamboo dishes on the market still contain melamine or harmful plastic binders, ours are 100% plant-based! Meaning they are biodegradable fully compostable and nasty-free. Lightweight and sweet in their simple design, this range is ideal for kid's of any age! They're also dishwasher and microwave safe, so busy families will benefit from the convenience.
The other great thing about either range as a gift is that they're daily use items- so if you're searching for practical, safe and sustainable gifts that will actually be used, these are a great choice.
Timber Tots- Handcrafted Wooden Learning Resources
Timber Tots creates beautifully made, open-ended wooden learning toys that encourages imaginative play and are built to last.
We have purchased a number of their products for our own boys, including their flash cards, learning stencils and scavenger hunt boards. The quality has remained unchanged even after all these years, and our boys (aged from 3 to 9) will still reach for them often.
Each piece is lovingly handcrafted using sustainable timber and safe finishes- no flashing lights, batteries, or plastic in sight!- with plenty of sustainable kids gifts options for all bears. And even better, their range is lovingly designed and crafted by a husband and wife team with their own two little bears.
Maud N Lil – Natural & Organic Baby Comforters
If your kids are anything like mine, they'll carry their comforters (or "loveys" as we affectionately call them) with them for years. Snuggling their little faces in to them and having them as a constant side-kick means the safety and longevity of these little guys should be key!
Enter Maud N Lil, an Australian small family business passionate about providing children with safe options for little ones and the planet. Their comforters are made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, designed with delicate skin in mind and available in the sweetest animal designs.
Maud N Lil focus on sustainable, ethical production with minimal waste, with timeless pieces that are gentle on both bears and the planet.
Check Out Maud N Lil
Organik Wellness Co
Founded by a mum and skincare specialist, Organik Wellness Co offers a beautiful range of natural, plastic-free skincare for babies, kids, and teens. Made in Australia and crafted with organic, non-toxic ingredients, their products are gentle on sensitive skin and kind to the planet, making them the perfect gift for eco-conscious families. They even have gift bundles ready to go- the baby skin bundle is perfect for little bears.
See Organik Wellness & Co's Full Range Here
Our Final "Wrap Up" on Sustainable Kids Gifts
There’s no shortage of sustainable, thoughtful gifts for kids when you know where to look. Choosing eco-friendly options helps reduce waste, supports local small business, and gives kids a gift option that is safe for them and their home.
These small Australian businesses are making it easier than ever to gift with purpose. Whether you’re celebrating a first birthday, baby shower, or needing some ideas from Santa, choosing well-made, eco-conscious gifts that will actually be used (!) is a small step toward a better future, for your little ones, and for the planet.
https://www.ecocubs.com.au