Summer, BABY! Somehow, I think half of my blog posts start with something anecdotal about the weather...
I am that small talk person, but I don't care. It's warm. It's summertime. I'm getting at least 12 hours of sunlight which means I am in my most productive, excited state!
And, it's also that time of year when BBQs and Pool Parties abound! Speaking of BBQs, did you see our Guide to Throwing an Eco-Friendly BBQ? If not, it's totally worth checking out!
But, this post isn't about BBQs it's about the pool and how you can be a little bit more eco-friendly.
1. towels:
When it comes to a day at the pool, you're going to want the fluffiest, softest, most eco-friendly towel to drape over that burning hot, sun-soaked lounge chair - you know the ones.
Might I recommend SOL Organics? I have several and their towels and the quality is superb.
SOL Organics is certified Fair Trade, Organic Cotton, and GOTS certified, and they ship completely plastic free.
My Picks:
2. bag:
I let my chic farmers market bag pull double duty. Besides, you know it's up for the task when it lugs around 15lbs of produce every week!
- Moroccan Wicker Basket
- Ecology Net Shopping Bag
- Earthwise Burlap Tote
- Open Weave Straw Tote <---- Fashion
- Canvas but Luxe
3. swimsuits:
It's time to break out the swimsuits! I've rounded up a few of my favorites that are made from ethical and sustainable companies.
- This one piece is so Mary Anne from Gilligan's Island and I'm here for it.
- The LBD of bathing suits
- High-waist, vintage-inspired, on-trend leopard print - need I say more?
- Cute & sporty one piece
- High-waisted black bikini bottoms perfect for mixing and matching tops
4. shades:
Looking for the most eco-friendly sunglasses on the face of the planet? Look no further! Check out our biodegradable line Pela Vision available in classic styles. My personal pick the Dians.
After years of wear, once (and if) they ever wear out, you can send them back to us and we'll make sure that they're composted and recycled!
5. sunscreen:
Did you know your sunscreen might be damaging the coral reefs?
Even if you're at the pool, you're still going to want to opt for sunscreens without oxybenzone and octinoxate.
Here's a list of reef safe sunscreens. One of the ways I beat the sun is to wear a hat and wearing a cover-up with sleeves.
If you want to stay extra safe, pop open that umbrella by the pool to stay in the shade, and go outside during the early and later hours when the sun isn't as intense.
6. snacks:
You had me at snacks! I love to pack a big plastic-free picnic when heading to the beach or pool.
Most beaches and pools don't allow glass for a number of reasons so I opt to carry my snacks in things like stasher bags and tiffins. Here's a rundown of a few zero waste, plastic-free snacks you can throw in your beach bag!
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Cooler full of iced tea complete with stainless pint cups to stay hydrated all day long
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An insulated water bottle is a must!
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Stasher bag full of fresh in-season berries + a bamboo fork
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Stasher bag full of carrot, bell pepper, and celery sticks
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Tiffin full of homemade hummus
7. speaker:
There aren't a ton of eco-friendly speakers out there, but I found House of Marley and I would definitely throw a mini-speaker in my bag!
They use mindfully sourced materials including bamboo, FSC™ certified wood, recyclable aluminum, plastic, and fabrics.
8. floaties
Eco-friendly floaties? I know what you're thinking, it would probably be best to avoid them altogether, but if you just really need or want them, FUNBOY makes them a bit more green.
They're made with 50% thicker vinyl so they should last you a lot longer and they give back with every purchase.
