Top Sustainable & Ethical Mother’s Day Gifts 2024
disclosure: this article may include affiliate links in which I receive a small commission for any purchase that you make
So, with Mother's Day right around the corner, you might be wondering... how can I celebrate while still being mindful of the environment?
Well, the answer is by being a conscious consumer!
This Mother's Day, lean into gifting experiences first. But if you decide to go with a physical present, buy from sustainable companies instead.
From slow travel adventures and green spa days to fair trade jewelry, here are 60 eco-friendly gift ideas on how you can celebrate Mother's Day 2024.
Mother-Child Experience-Based Gifts
1. Eco-Friendly Spa Day - $40+
Look up eco-friendly spas near you and book a day to go with mom! Alternatively, you can DIY a spa day at home with these sustainable spa sets.
2. Weekend Getaway - $300+
When was the last time you took a trip with mom? Spend some quality time together by booking a quick weekend getaway to that city you've both been meaning to check out.
3. Cooking Lessons - $40+
Cooking lessons can be a great way to try new foods, gain unique insight into a different culture, and spend some quality time together.
4. Family Photoshoot - $300+
When was the last time you took a cheesy family portrait together? It's become so easy to snap a photo on our cellphones that we forget that they can actually be pretty meaningful. Mark the occasion and set aside some time for a professional shoot.
5. DIY Experiences - $20+
If your mom is the craftsy type, a DIY experience is the perfect way to celebrate Mother's Day. Consider joining a paint and sip, a tufting class, a woodworking class or something else! The possibilities are endless.
6. Guided Outdoor Adventure - $80+
Scuba diving in Tulum's cenotes? Hiking Antelope Canyon? Go on an adventure with mom! A guided outdoor excursion will make planning your next trip a breeze. You can rest assured and just focus on bonding with mom.
Gifts For Moms Who Love to Travel
7. All-Inclusive Resort Experience
Mother's Day is all about pampering so treat your mom to the finest with an all-inclusive resort package. Better yet, use the "travel sustainable" filter to find an eco-resort and do good for the environment while you're at it!
8. Subscription To Going (Formerly Scott's Cheap Flights)
Help mom find the best deals and save money on travel by getting her a subscription to Going. Going tracks flight prices and notifies subscribers when the best deals are available (usually 40-90% off).
9. Travel Insurance with VisitorsCoverage
Make sure that mom always gets where she needs to go safely. VisitorsCoverage provides medical and trip insurance regardless of where you are in the world. With plans that start at $100, it's a price that can't be beat.
10. Where To Go When 2 By Lonely Planet - $22
This essential travel guide by Lonely Planet tells travelers where to go and when best to visit. Sure, you could probably Google it, but nothing beats having a physical book (or ebook).
11. Packing Cubes From Peak Design - $30
Help mom save luggage space by packing her capsule wardrobe in Peak Design's packing cubes. This company creates products designed for maximum efficiency and longevity with transparent sustainability commitments.
12. Insulated Stainless Steel Water Filter Bottle By LifeStraw - $47+
This water bottle has a built-in filter so that mom will always have clean drinking water regardless of where she is. This water bottle is a little pricey but if you factor in the cost of buying bottled water when you travel, it's definitely worth the investment.
Sustainable Fashion Gifts For Mom
13. Catalina Slide Sandal By Nisolo - $138
Summer's right around the corner and these leather sandals from Nashville-based Nisolo are the perfect gift for mom. Handcrafted by artisans in Peru, they mix all-day comfort with timeless style and are versatile enough for all occasions.
14. Cactus Leather Puzzle Cardholder By Allégorie - $86
Keep your money safe with this stylish cactus leather card holder. Made from cactus leaves and recycled plant-based materials, the wallet is entirely cruelty-free and ethically made in NYC.
15. Gift Card To A Made Trade - $25+
Not sure what mom likes? Get her a gift card! Made Trade is a woman-owned, family-run online marketplace that curates offerings from ethical and sustainable businesses around the country.
16. Cygnet Bracelet From CatBird - $258
Celebrate Mother's Day with a custom-engraved 14k yellow gold cygnet bracelet. Made with recycled materials and ethically crafted in Brooklyn, this bracelet is one of the most thoughtful and custom gifts out there.
17. True Knit Wide Leg Pants By Organic Basics - $65
Available in three colors, these ultra-soft, organic cotton, knitted pants are perfect for lounging in. The design is created by Organic Basics in Denmark and and features a wide leg design. The garment is made with GOTS-certified cotton.
18. Soft Stretch Eucalyptus Short Sleeve Dress by Sijo - $70
This super soft eco-friendly shirt dress features a chic, fitted silhouette and hits right at midi length. Its simple, size-inclusive, design is perfect for wearing around the house or layering under a stylish jacket for running errands.
Eco-Friendly Home Goods For the Homebody Mom
19. Minimal Stoneware Mug Set By Convivial - $69
This neutral mug set of two is warm, earthy, and matches with just about any home decor. The handcrafted mugs were made in Kansas City and are third-party tested to be lead and cadmium free, so mom can sip soundly knowing that there are no toxins in her mugs!
20. Cast Iron Cookware Set By OurPlace - $395
Treat mom to a whole new kitchen with this Cast Iron Cookware Set! Made with heirloom-quality, enameled cast iron, this four-piece set comes in 7 unique colors and is the perfect sustainable and non-toxic add for her home.
21. Salvia Merino Blanket By Studio Variously - $269
This hand-embroidered blanket is made with 100% Merino yarn and dyed using certified eco Swiss dyes. Handmade in Nepal, it's the perfect subtle and modern purchase for the home.
22. Signature Votive Candle Set By Boll & Branch - $119
Create a spa-like ambiance at home with this set of three paraffin-free, coconut and apricot wax blend, candles. Hand-poured by artisans in the U.S. in exclusive small batches, these candles are sure to help mom unwind after a stressful day.
23. Jonote Three Tier Basket By Minna - $150
Get organized with this handmade, three-tier hanging basket. Handmade in Puebla, Mexico, it's the perfect storage option for the kitchen, bathroom, or even in the studio.
24. Recycled Wine Cooler Decanter By Mbare - $84
This wine cooler decanter was created with recycled glass and crafted in Eswatini. It comes in two sizes and makes for an interestingly architectural yet functional addition to the dining room.
Green Goods For The Plant-Loving, Homesteading, Cottage-Core Mama
25. Flower Subscription By ReVased - $44
The saddest thing about Mother’s Day bouquets is that they wilt in two weeks. Instead, gift your mom lasting joy by getting her a flower subscription. ReVased sources from eco-friendly farms that give back to the community!
26. Gift Card To Local Nursery
Every plant-lover has a list of plants that they'd like to get or equipment to spruce up their setup. Support mom with her passion by getting her a gift card to the local nursery this holiday season.
27. Floret Metallic Dafina Tapered Planter By Kazi - $32
This handwoven planter basket is the perfect addition to your mom's kitchen or office. Handwoven with raffia and banana fibers by artisans in Uganda, it's a great way to add color and energy to the room.
28. Lomi Bloom - $399
Lomi is a countertop composter that turns food scraps into soil in hours. It helps minimize waste and is the perfect tool to help anyone who cares about growing their own food and doing better for the environment.
29. Grow Lights by GooingTop - $27
These grow lights by GooingTop allow you to take better care of your plants with a wide range of white and red LEDs that mimic different outdoor conditions. If your mom's been wanting to up her indoor plant game, this is the gift for her.
30. The New Plant Parent, by Darryl Cheng - $16
Has your mom just started her plant journey? This essential book by Darryl Cheng covers everything you need to know about growing healthy house plants. With practical tips and accessible photographs, this book is a favorite among all plant owners.
Eco-Friendly Gifts For The Wellness-Oriented Mom
31. Thrive Market Membership - $60/year
Thrive Market is the go-to online marketplace for organic and eco-friendly products. From sustainably-sourced seafood to organic cleaning supplies, this platform provides it all. A Thrive Market membership gives your mom up to 30% off groceries and free shipping for the year.
32. Clean Beauty Gift Subscription By The Detox Market - $46/month
Try new clean beauty products with The Detox Box: an award-winning beauty box! Each month features 3-4 carefully curated products that fit the month's theme. From mineral sunscreens to the newest face oils, you can find it all on The Detox Market.
33. Manuka Pro Yoga Mat By Manuka
Sure, it's a little on the pricey side, but this non-toxic, plastic-free yoga mat by Manuka is made to last. If your mom is serious about yoga, she'll likely have used their mats before. I've been practicing for the past 10 years and can personally attest that these high quality mats are made to last.]
34. Girlfriend Collective E-Gift Card - $25+
Girlfriend Collective is one of the leading sustainable fashion brands in fitness attire. Support mom on her fitness journey with comfortable yet supportive leggings, sports bras, and loungewear. An e-gift card the best way to go this Mother's Day.
35. Essential, Gut & Skin Trio By Ritual - $92
Did you know that most supplements are not regulated by the FDA? That's all the more reason to be selective about the brand. Ritual is committed to creating effective formulations that are traced and sourced transparently. Get the Essential, Gut, and Skin Trip to get mom started!
36. TheraGun Prime By Theragun - $299
Aid recover with the Theragun. This massage gun features 4 high-quality foam attachments and is designed ergonomically with a patented triangle handle. It's built to last and the perfect addition to mom's personal wellness routine.
Affordable Sustainable Mother's Day Gifts (Under $50!)
37. Handmade Organic Bath Bombs By Relaxcation Store - $25
Bath bombs are the ultimate at-home luxury. This set of six quality bath bombs are handmade with the finest organic and natural ingredients. Featuring soothing scents created only with essential oils, they're an attentive and economical way to show mom that you've been thinking of her.
38. Minimal Ikebana Raw Stoneware Vase By Convivial - $38
The smallest details make the biggest difference. These handmade, ceramic vases are designed to showcase minimal, ikebana inspired arrangements. Made with unglazed sand stoneware, these vases are sure to bring warmth and inspiration to the home.
39. Ginevra Upcycled Drop Earrings By Giulia Letzi + META Jewelry - $44
These unique earrings are the perfect gift for someone who values style, practicality, and sustainability. Upcycled from discarded plastic bottles and recycled metals, these drop earrings come in three unique colors that fit with every wardrobe.
40. Palma Canasta Chica Bag By Carminito - $48
With summer right around the corner, it's time to bust out the straw(like) bags! This handmade structured basket is handwoven with biodegradable palm leaves and perfect for farmer's market runs and everyday wear.
41. Essential Oil Diffuser By Asakuki - $26
Add ambiance with this premium five-in-one aromatherapy vaporizer by Asakuki. Designed for rest and restoration, this 500 ml diffuser is created with a BPA-free material and works quietly to make a spa-like experience at home.
42. Virtual Gift Card By Organic Basics - $50
Organic Basics is a leading sustainable underwear brand based in Denmark. With most offerings ranging from $15-$30, a $50 virtual gift card is a practical gift that can actually be applied to purchase multiple items.
Zero-Waste Mother's Day Ideas
43. Make Mom A Meal
Whether it's brunch or dinner, a home-cooked meal is by far one of the sweetest zero-waste ways to spend Mother's Day. Purchase all your ingredients at the local farmer's market and use reusable bags and containers to save on packaging!
44. Donate To A Charity
Is there a cause that mom really cares about? Donate in her name! Whether it's an ongoing monthly donation or a one-time contribution, this gift will show mom that you actually listen.
45. Zero Waste Starter Kit At The Zero Waste Store - $100
This Zero Waste Starter Kit includes reusable paper towels, plastic-free soap dish, and so much more! It's also sent in planet-friendly packing so that you can feel confident about your zero waste commitment.
46. Refillable Makeup By Elate - $15+
These custom refillable makeup palettes are essential for a zero-waste beauty routine. Simply choose a palette size and then pick out products and shades that match your mom best.
47. Package Free Shop Subscription - Price Depends On Order
Gifting a subscription to The Package Free Shop can help mom get her favorite zero waste products at a discounted price. You can customize the items and delivery frequency!
48. Zero Waste Home By Bea Johnson - $12
This book is the ultimate guide to reducing waste in everyday living and offers readers practical tips and tools to decrease their carbon footprint.
Handmade Mother's Day Gifts
49. Handmade Soap Kit By Bramble Berry - $30+
Nothing says "I love you" like something handmade. Buy these soap making kits and spend a few days crafting a design that mom will love. Otherwise, you can gift her the entire kit and spend a day making soap together.
50. Premium Soy Candle Making Kit By SoftOwl - $50
Similarly, you can create a few custom hand-poured soy candles for mom. This ultimate set for beginners includes packs of soy wax, black candle jars, 7 fragrance oils, wicks, glue dots, and so much more!
51. Homemade Treats - $20+
Throw it back to childhood by making mom some sophisticated treats. From chocolate truffles to a three-tier cake, sweet desserts are a lovely gift for Mother's Day.
52. Handmade Jewelry - $200+
Make mom a ring or a necklace by attending a jewelry making workshop. You can also go together and make an experience out of it!
53. Handmade Pottery - $35+
If your mom's into interior design, then handmade ceramics are one of the best gifts that you can get her. Attend a pottery class and and gift her the item that you make! (Or again, you can take the class together).
54. Kitchen Infusions - $20+
Does your mom love to cook? Then a custom kitchen infusion might be the perfect gift for her! Think herb infused oils or jalapeno tequila. Buy from local farmers to ensure that the ingredients are as sustainable as possible!
Last-Minute Mother's Day Gifts
55. DIY Bouquet - $20
Piece together a bouquet with flowers purchased from the farmer's market. Wrap it in butcher flower and a little bit of twine and you're set to go! If you want to take it a step further, you can also thrift a vase to go along with it.
56. Coupon Booklet - $0
An age-old last-minute gift idea. Customize a coupon booklet with special ideas that only you can do for your mom. Skip the obvious options like kitchen clean-up and dinner out and go for something like a trip to the beauty salon or mending her clothes.
57. Bean Box Subscription - $19+
If mom love quality coffee, then a subscription to Beanbox is the way to go! Their coffee products support independent roasters and provide premium wags for local farmers.
58. Tickets To A Night Out
Concert tickets might be challenging to snag but tickets to a local event at the comedy club, symphony, or opera might be a lovely alternative. You can pair these tickets with dinner and extra pampering to make the occasion more special.
59. Painted Terra Cotta Pot
If that pot she's been eyeing won't ship on time, make it yourself! Buy a terra cotta plant from your local shop and then decorate it with acrylics, chalks, or milk paint!
60. DIY Flower Bath Soak
With just some dried flowers, epsom salts, and essential oils, you can create custom bath soaks as a last-minute gift for mom. Just buy some cute glass containers and add a nice handwritten letter, and you're set to go!
Some people say that spending on gifts is wasteful but it doesn't have to be that way!
I'm a strong believer that if they're intentionally purchased and love for a long time, then it's completely worth it. So I hope that this list of top sustainable Mother's Day gift ideas was helpful and that you have a lovely day celebrating with your mom!
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