Every year around this time, there is a search for ways to wrap gifts in a way that doesn’t cause too much waste. Here are seventeen zero waste gift wrapping ideas that come to my rescue every year!
Note: We’ve included Amazon links to some of the products we recommend to clarify the idea and because so many people are shopping online. We may earn a small commission on some purchases, which helps us stay in business. That said, we always encourage the Big Green Purse community to shop less and shop local as much as possible. Thank you!
17 Best Zero Waste Gift Wrapping Ideas
Start with what you already have, Maybe it’s wrapping paper you’ve saved and reused over the years. These could be clothes you love and want to pass on. I keep a box from year to year where I store last year’s wrapping to reuse the next year. Before I even think about buying anything new, I check what I already have.
Choose options that can be reused, hopefully multiple times. Most of the paper wrapping will be thrown away. Gift bags, boxes and baskets can be used several times before they spoil. The fabric can be used in any season.
Purchase Wrapping made from recycled paper. Most paper can be recycled. that’s not good enough! The most eco-friendly wrapping paper is actually made from recycled paper – and the best is made from 100% recycled paper. If you buy wrapping paper, look for the word kraft or made from kraft paper or recycled paper in the product description or on the label.
No Wrap large gifts. Instead of using and throwing away tons of wrapping paper, place a gift card under the tree with a picture of the gift on it that you can hide and pull out once the recipient opens their card. The gift will still be a surprise, just with a lot less waste.
Give Experiences and services rather than things. Why wrap at all? Give those you love the gift of your time or a special experience or service. In our house, we always come up with an activity that we describe in colorful ways in cards or on sheets of paper that we design and print. They are always my favorite gifts.
Use non-toxic glue instead of tape. One glue stick probably replaces three plastic dispensers of throwaway tape. That said, do not use “Gorilla” glue or any other heavy-duty glue. All you need is something that will stick to paper for a short period of time. Check your local hardware store or drugstore before purchasing online (Note: The product shown here is not zero waste, as it comes in plastic packages and plastic tubes. If you shop locally, you Can find product sold in tubes only.)
Use jute or cotton twine Instead of ribbon. Twine made of cotton or jute is better than plastic and can be used again and again. If you buy these larger spools, you’ll likely have them for years to come. You can find them at local arts and crafts stores as well as online; Make sure you choose non-plastic options.
Make gift tags from last year’s holiday cards. If you’ve kept cards you’ve received throughout the year, now’s the time to cut them into gift tags that you can personalize. Cut a hole in the corner and add some of the wrapping twine you found!
Use Wrapping made from recycled paper and printed with non-toxic inks, The option pictured above offers nine different and fun holiday designs. It is packaged in a reusable paper bag with an accompanying paper gift tag. You can reuse it; You can definitely recycle it.
skip Wrap and put in the bag! As often as possible, and to save a lot of time, I skip wrapping gifts altogether and just put the gifts in bags. here’s another very cute one zero waste gift wrapping Options, with bags in different sizes:
some of my favorites Zero Waste Gift Wrapping Bags Are reusable that fold into a pouch. I keep a pouch bag in my purse that I use several times a week, as well as one in my car and another in my fanny pack. The pouch bags below are large and suitable for children.
Effort reusable wax food wrap – Reusable food wrappers are perfect for wrapping small food gifts, such as jams, mustards and other condiments, spice jars, bottles of specialty oils and vinegars, cheeses, herbs, candy, and more. You can buy beeswax food wraps in a variety of sizes, or Reusable Zero Waste Gift Wrapping Roll Like the one below which you can cut to shape your gift.
wrap Gifts in reusable clothing and textiles. imagine and choose it 100% cotton square Which can be useful for Christmas, Valentine’s Day or birthday. or try one Holiday-themed tea towel or flour sack towel. A tea towel is large enough to wrap books and boxes, and because it’s thinner than a terry cloth bath towel, it’s usually easier to work with. You can also use a bolt of fabric for someone who likes to sew; large cotton bandana, Silk scarves…you get the idea!
Box it! zero waste gift wrapping boxes When it comes to zero waste gift wrapping these are just as popular in our house as bags. They are very reusable, especially when they fold and stack inside each other for easy storage. But before buying new, we use the boxes they came in and put a new gift tag on them when possible. (This is an ideal way to use up shipping boxes.)
Reproduce calendars and maps. I’m personally not a fan of using newspapers because I don’t like ink. But beautiful old calendars and vintage maps are perfect for wrapping.
Baskets. For holidays and birthdays, my children bring me a basket full of gifts: tea, chocolate, wine, bath salts, delicious spices, and much more. I turn around and use the same basket to give a gift to someone else. I love putting gifts in baskets! You can easily find it at thrift stores, yard sales, and local dollar stores.
Purchase local! I have provided Amazon links here to clarify my tips and also because many of you are shopping online to stay safe during COVID. But if you do go out (wearing a mask, of course), bring your own shopping bag and choose products with minimal or no packaging.
Where to Buy Zero Waste Wrapping Paper
Zero waste wrapping paper can be found in various places:
- Eco-Friendly Stores: Look for local stores or online platforms that specialize in sustainable and eco-friendly products. These stores often carry zero waste wrapping paper made from recycled materials.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Conscious Life & Style offer a guide to zero waste gift wrapping, suggesting options like recycled and compostable wrapping paper.
Best Zero Waste Wrapping Paper
The best zero waste wrapping paper combines sustainability with functionality:
- Recycled Materials: Opt for wrapping paper made from recycled materials. Look for options that use post-consumer waste or other eco-friendly sources.
- Recyclable or Compostable: Ensure that the wrapping paper is either recyclable or compostable. This way, it won’t contribute to landfill waste.
- Creative Alternatives: Consider using unconventional materials like newspapers, magazines, or maps as wrapping paper. These alternatives are both eco-friendly and unique.
Wrapping Paper Waste Statistics
Wrapping paper generates a significant amount of waste:
- In the UK, approximately 227,000 miles of wrapping paper are used each year, with a substantial portion ending up in landfills.
- In the US, an estimated 2.3 million pounds of wrapping paper are discarded annually.
Is Wrapping Paper Bad for the Environment?
Traditional wrapping paper has environmental drawbacks:
- Single-Use: Most wrapping paper is designed for single-use, contributing to unnecessary waste.
- Non-Recyclable Elements: Some wrapping paper contains non-recyclable elements like glitter, foil, or plastic coatings, making recycling difficult.
- Landfill Impact: When discarded, wrapping paper often ends up in landfills, adding to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions .
Reusable Gift Wrapping Ideas
Embrace reusable gift wrapping alternatives:
- Fabric Wraps: Use scarves, dishtowels, or cloth napkins as reusable wraps. These can become part of the gift itself.
- Snack Bags: Repurpose snack bags or small fabric pouches to hold gifts.
- Socks: Get creative by using socks as gift wraps. They add a playful touch and can be reused afterward.
Recyclable Wrapping Paper
Choose recyclable wrapping paper that aligns with sustainability:
- Plain and Non-Laminated: Look for wrapping paper without glossy coatings or laminations.
- Recycled Content: Opt for paper made from recycled materials.
- Newsprint Wrapping Paper: Wrappily offers eco-friendly wrapping paper printed on 100% recyclable newsprint.
Zero Waste Box Review
TerraCycle’s Zero Waste Box™ provides a solution for recycling items that are traditionally non-recyclable. Customers appreciate the company’s mission to eliminate the concept of waste. Consider using this service to responsibly dispose of items like plastic packaging.
Wrapping Paper Bag
Transform wrapping paper into a reusable gift bag:
- Fold and Tape: Fold the wrapping paper into a bag-like shape, securing the edges with tape.
- Handles: Create handles by folding and taping additional strips of wrapping paper.
- Personal Touch: Customize the bag with ribbons, bows, or other decorative elements.
- Eco-Friendly and Personal: Not only is this method eco-friendly, but it also adds a personal touch to your gift-giving experience.
FAQs:
A. Newspaper, Magazines, or Maps: Repurpose old newspapers, magazines, or maps for unique and eco-friendly wrapping.
– Potato Chip Bag: Turn an empty chip bag inside out for a shimmery, silvery gift wrap.
– Old Clothes or Fabric: Use fabric scraps or old clothes to wrap gifts creatively.
– Reusable Cotton Produce Bag: These bags can be reused multiple times and make great gift wraps.
– Butcher Paper: Eco-friendly and compostable, butcher paper is a minimalist option.
– Old Cardboard Shoe Boxes and Laces: Transform shoe boxes into gift boxes.
– Plants, Leaves, Flowers: Add natural elements like sprigs of rosemary or lavender.
A. Reusable options can be used multiple times before they wear out, reducing waste. Gift bags, boxes, and baskets are durable and versatile.
A. Opt for recycled paper or 100% recycled paper. Look for the word “kraft” or “made from kraft paper” in the product description or label.
A. Instead of wrapping large gifts, place a gift card under the tree with a picture of the gift. It’s a surprise without the waste.
A. Consider giving experiences or services instead. Describe them creatively in cards or on paper.
A. Glue sticks are a better choice than plastic tape. Avoid heavy-duty glues like “Gorilla” glue.
A. Wrapping gifts with zero waste involves using alternative materials such as fabric, old newspapers, or reusable gift bags. You can also get creative with natural elements like twine, pine cones, or dried flowers for decoration.
A. Wrapping paper that is metallic, glittery, or has a plastic coating cannot be recycled. Additionally, paper with tape or adhesive residue may also be problematic for recycling.
A. It depends on the type of wrapping paper. Plain paper-based wrapping paper without embellishments like foil or glitter can usually be recycled. However, it’s best to check with your local recycling guidelines as some facilities may have specific rules.
A. Yes, there are biodegradable options available, often made from recycled materials or sustainably sourced paper. Look for wrapping paper labeled as biodegradable or eco-friendly.
A. The most environmentally friendly way to wrap presents is by using reusable materials such as fabric wraps or gift bags. Another option is to use recycled or recyclable paper and embellishments made from natural materials.
A. Wrapping paper can be quite wasteful, especially if it’s not recyclable or if excessive amounts are used. Choosing more sustainable wrapping options can significantly reduce waste.
A. Five types of paper that cannot be recycled include: wax-coated paper, thermal paper (like receipts), paper contaminated with food or grease, laminated paper, and paper with metallic or glitter coatings.
A. The acceptability of wrapping paper in a purple bin depends on your local waste management guidelines. Check with your local authorities or waste management company for specific instructions.
A. It depends on the specific type of wrapping paper from Costco. Plain paper-based wrapping paper without embellishments like foil or glitter can usually be recycled, but it’s best to check the packaging or with your local recycling facility.
A. Whether you can put wrapping paper in a green bin depends on your local waste management guidelines. Green bins are often used for organic waste, so unless the wrapping paper is compostable or made from natural materials, it’s best to check with your local authorities.