Modern Homemakers

Getting Into the Green Scene: Eco-Friendly Products for the Family

by The Modern Parenting Team
May 24, 2023

These eco-friendly products are not only good for the whole family but also for the environment — and your wallets.

This story about eco-friendly products by Paulyne Fermin first came out in Modern Parenting’s special Mother’s Day-Father’s Day 2023 Print Edition available on sarisari.shopping.

As moms, we are always on the lookout for the best deals. A lot of us are attracted to big discounts, buy-one-get-one promotions, and freebies. Only to realize later that we really have no use for these impulsive buys. What is a good purchase, really? As main decision makers for the household, it’s high time we realize that we are capable of making a big difference when it comes to living a healthier lifestyle while also creating a safer environment.

Here are three practical questions to ask ourselves when we are shopping: Will I really use it? Is it a sustainable choice that’s good for my family and the community? Am I getting good value for money? If the answer is yes to all three, then go ahead and proceed to the nearest counter!

Here are 8 Modern Parenting-approved brands that fit the above considerations. And personally speaking from experience, these are products worthy of a spot on every household shelf!

Eco-Friendly Products to Check Out

1. VEGETAL Bio Colour

Change the color of your hair without the use of chemical-laden products. Vegetal Bio Colour is from plant-derived and ayurvedic ingredients, which leave the hair with a deep, rich, and vibrant tint. It also doubles as a hair treatment as it coats, softens, and adds volume to each strand after application. Moreso, the product inhibits dandruff and encourages hair growth. To get the best results, just add warm milk and stir to get the right consistency. Yes, milk! Each box (Php 985) contains two 50-gram pouches. And they are good for at least 3 to 4 uses for medium-length hair. Available shades include black, brown, dark brown, and mahogany. This is one “box dye” you won’t want to miss.

2. BURT’S BEES Sensitive Skin Care

Summer is here and the change of weather means a host of skin concerns. Two things to know about Burt’s Bees – all their products are on average 99.6 natural in origin, and its entire sensitive skincare line has earned the American National Eczema Association (NEA) seal. In addition, their ingredients are sourced responsibly. There are no harmful chemicals, strong fragrances, or petrochemical feedstocks added to any of its items. Dermatologists highly recommend their sensitive skincare line which contains aloe vera, rice extract, and honey. For daily use, try the Gentle Cream Cleanser with Aloe (Php 1,195), Daily Moisturizing Cream (Php 1,595), and Night Cream (Php 1,595).

3. All Things Green

A label that promotes a mindful approach to self-care, All Things Green (ATG) believes in the healing power of botanicals and oils. Consumers can readily see the ingredients used in making each product as all are visibly printed on the front labels. Bestsellers include the Clarifying Soap, which is formulated for oily and blemish-prone skin to reduce redness and balance oil production, and Moisturizing Soap, which is ideal for all skin types to remove everyday impurities.

The Bug Bite Balm, Colds and Flu Balm, and Insect Repellant, which contain both lemongrass and citronella, all come in pocket-size containers. They are also handy enough to be placed inside your bag. Another must-try is the Sugar Polish Body Scrub. It acts as a natural exfoliator and leaves the skin soft in just 30 seconds. The best part? All products mentioned range from Php 100 to Php 200 only!

4. Cuccio Naturale

Treat yourself to a relaxing spa experience right in the comfort of your own home with Cuccio Naturale’s Milk and Honey Luxury Spa products for the hands, body, and feet. Cuccio Naturale Luxury Spa has combined the potent power of both milk and honey to deliver healing and visible radiance. Try the Body Butter Lyte (Php 737 / 8 oz.) for the whole body and the richer Body Butter (Php 985 / 8 oz.) for rough
hands and feet. These products are global bestsellers because of their patented 24-hour hydration formula that renews moisture every two hours. To elevate your DIY foot spa, light a candle and treat your
feet to a Scentual Pedi Salt Soak (Php 1,818 / 32 oz). Use the cuticle conditioning butter stick and manicure cuticle oil for shinier, stronger nails. Complete the ritual with thorough exfoliation and skin repair using the Sea Salt Scrub (P1,568 / 19.5 oz.) and the Deep Dermal Transforming Wrap (P1,228 / 8 oz.).

5. NamuLIFE Hair Care System and Mouth Spray

Thai brand NamuLife uses black glutinous rice as its star ingredient in its shampoo and conditioner (both products are under Php 1,000 each), and hair serum (Php 1,450). Use the serum after shampooing and conditioning by placing two drops on your fingertips, warming it up gently by rubbing your hands together, then massaging it onto the scalp. This type of grain is loaded with antioxidants and vitamins to fortify hair from root to tip, preventing hair fall. Recently, the brand has added a super mouth spray (Php 420) to the line. Containing fahthalaijone, a spritz to the mouth soothes the throat, reduces bacteria, and keeps the breath minty fresh. This Thai herbal plant is also used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat cough, fever, and inflammation. Moreover, in 2021, the Thai government approved the use of the herbs for treating asymptomatic Covid-19 patients.

6. GLAD to be Green

To help us be more mindful of how we prepare, pack, and dispose of food in our households, kitchen brand GLAD has come up with a range of eco-friendly products. From compostable caddy liners, cling wraps, and plant-based resealable sandwich bags to different-sized storage and garbage bags, each item is made from a renewable source and is 100% recyclable. Its cling wrap (Php 210) and 50% plant-based snap-lock sandwich bags (Php 147.50) are both made from sugar cane and a portion of it has
been replaced with bio-based plastic which has a smaller carbon footprint. Meanwhile, GLAD also offers sustainable waste management solutions that are manufactured using pre-consumer plastic waste that would otherwise end in landfills. Consciously using the 50% plant- based leak-proof green garbage bagsand the 95% recycled kitchen tidy bags is definitely a greener, more economical choice.

7. GULLÓN Bio Organic Biscuits and Cookies

Egg-free, nut-free, sugar-free, soy-free, vegetarian, and allergen-free, Gullon Bio Organic Biscuits and cookies (Php 299 / box) are perfect not only for those with dietary issues but also for moms who are looking for healthier snacks to give to their kids. Made from organic ingredients, it uses high oleic sunflower oil which reduces heart disease by raising good cholesterols (HDL) in the body. But without
all of the sugars and artificial flavors found in many snacks, how do the biscuits compare? It’s delicious! Crunchy, rich in fiber, and satisfying, the Choco Chips variant takes top prize taste- wise. Other flavors include Avena Oats and 4 Grains with Spelt.

8. SAGANA Coconut Spread

Is there really a healthier alternative to butter that tastes just as good and makes you lose pounds? Yes! This coconut spread (Php 225 / 250g brick) is plant-based and is made from 81% pure non-hydrogenated coconut oil, 15% water, and 1.5% salt. Pure coconut oil is a superfood and is high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), a unique type of fat that metabolizes faster into energy, aiding in weight loss. MCTs also boost healthy cholesterol which in turn promotes good digestion and lowers the risk of heart disease. What’s more, Sagana coconut spread is fortified with lauric acid which strengthens
the immune system with its antimicrobial and antiviral properties. You’ll be surprised by its creamy taste despite being dairy-free. Use it as a spread on toasts, bagels, as well as for cooking and baking.

9. Founding Farmers

Founding Farmers was launched in 2015. It’s a women-led business that wants to offer better-for-you snacks keeping in mind affordability and accessibility. The brand offers vegetable snacks that are gluten-sourced from the company’s production farm partners and undergo a cooking process using an industrial vacuum frying machine which ensures crispness, sealed in natural flavor, and no oil residue. Additionally, the products’ nutrition content is reviewed and vetted by a licensed nutritionist. Guaranteed to convert even the choosiest and veggie-averse kids, their mixed veggie crisps is an all-time bestseller. Other flavors which come in solo packs are okra, shiitake mushroom, string beans, and pumpkin and carrot crisps. Founding Farmers also offers roasted shelled edamame which is high in protein – a favorite among the fitness enthusiasts!