A Christmas stocking is one of the most delightful holiday experiences you can share with your kids, nieces, nephews or grandkids. Whether it’s a stand-alone keepsake or something extra to accompany a much larger gift, receiving a Christmas stocking is guaranteed to bring a smile to a child’s face.
It might be easy to fill a stocking with cheap items from the sweets aisle or discount store. But many people are now looking for more memorable, meaningful and eco-friendly alternatives when it comes to Christmas stocking fillers.
We’ve rounded up a list of unique and budget-friendly stocking filler ideas for toddlers, teens and tweens (and maybe even the kids at heart!). These thoughtful picks are not just the usual knick-knacks that you buy at the last minute.
Here are some ideas for sustainable stocking stuffers that will please anyone on your Christmas list.
And if you’re opting for a more sustainable holiday this year, you may want a sustainable alternative to cheap synthetic stockings. Consider putting the stocking fillers in a reusable Christmas keepsake box instead. Christmas Eve boxes are typically made of wood and can be personalized with the child’s name or a special message on the lid. Reusable year after year, they’re a magical tradition to introduce to your holiday routine.
ECO-FRIENDLY STOCKING FILLERS FOR TODDLERS
1. Jordyn Bucket Hat
Parents of toddlers will greatly appreciate this practical holiday gift in their Christmas stockings. This adorable bucket hat comes in either blush or forest colours and is perfect for summer days at the beach or palyground.
2. Replay Sippy Cup
This lightweight sippy cup will come in handy for toddlers during the transition from breast to bottle or cup. It features a simple, easy-to-hold shape perfect for little hands, a spill-proof spout, leak-proof lid and a removable silicone valve to help control liquid flow.
A Replay Sippy Cup also makes for a great eco-friendly stocking filler, as it’s made from recycled PVC plastic, is BPA-free and is phthalate-free. For extra convenience, it is easy to clean and top-rack dishwasher-friendly. The sippy cup is available in a variety of bright and pastel colours, including red, orange, aqua, baby pink and sky blue.
3. EverEarth Wooden Safari Peg Puzzle
This wooden puzzle toy combines a fun and educational experience in one. It is a great way to support the development of early childhood skills such as creativity, colour recognition and hand-eye coordination.
Better yet, this adorable puzzle keeps toxins out of the picture, making this a safe Christmas gift for little ones. The wooden peg puzzle is made from 100% beechwood, with splinter-free rounded corners and edges. Water-based paints are used to create the colourful pictures, so they’re both non-toxic and odour-free
4. HABA Rainmaker Colours and Sounds
Today, kids love to use gadgets like tablets and smartphones for play and entertainment. The HABA wooden musical toy will keep toddlers busy for hours (and keep them away from your electronics!)
Inside are small beads that make a trickling sound when the rod is moved from side to side. It also doubles as a toy puzzle, challenging older kids to balance the coloured beads and make them fall through the matching holes that match. This ensures the HABA Rainmaker will be enjoyed for years to come, rather than unceremoniously binned a few weeks after Christmas.
The wooden rainmaker is crafted from PEFC-certified wood and is solvent-free, BPA-free and formaldehyde-free. It’s also the perfect size to pop in a Christmas stocking!
5. Rainbow Bow Clip Holder
This beautiful rainbow shaped bow and clip holder with personalised name is an amazing piece to decorate a toddlers room. It’s fantastic to find Christmas stocking fillers that are guaranteed to be used and appreciated.
ECO-FRIENDLY STOCKING FILLERS FOR BOYS
1. 6 in 1 Solar Powered Robot Kit
This DIY robot kit is every little boy’s dream Christmas present! The kit contains 21 snap-together parts that can build up to 6 different toy models, including a windmill, revolving plane, airboat, aeroplane, car and puppy.
This educational toy also runs on solar power, making it an energy-saving and cost-saving alternative to battery-powered toy cars and robots. It’s great for solo play as well sharing with friends, and it’s a great way to train your future scientist to be patient, imaginative and creative.
Considering the very reasonable price point, it’s a fantastic stocking filler for boys over eight years old.
2. Salt Water Engine Car Kit
Another excellent ‘green’ Christmas gift idea for the budding scientist in your family. This innovative toy concept teaches kids about other sources of clean energy to power their toys. No need for batteries, all you need to do is add a saltwater mixture, and the car will run for at least five hours.
The car kit includes three components, an air cathode, a non-woven fabric and magnesium metal sheet (includes three sheets), which is the only consumable item. After playing, simply remove the fuel cell module, rinse it with tap water and let it air-dry.
3. Plasto Baby Bucket Set
If you’re going on a beachside holiday this Christmas, the Plasto bucket set is the perfect sustainable stocking stuffer to pack. This 3-piece set comes with a sand bucket, a shovel and a rake – everything a child needs for a fun day at the beach.
Your kiddo can use them to build a sandcastle or sift through sand to collect rocks and seashells, while learning about the environment in a fun and interactive way. You can also take them to your backyard and help your little gardener plant something new.
Plasto is a Finnish company that manufactures children’s toys from recycled plastic produced from sugar cane.
4. Reusable Water Balloons
Splash the competition with these colourful water splash balls that are reusable, latex-free water balloons over and over unlike water balloons. Soft enough for play battles since they are made of Silica gel, latex-free and close using magnets.
The Reusable water balloons will get everyone outside for endless hours of fun. Even the adults will love getting outdoors and taking this stocking stuffer for a whirl!
5. Wooden Tetris Block Puzzle
The classic video game Tetris comes to life in this wooden block puzzle set. Kids will enjoy solving this puzzle board while developing their motor skills, colour recognition, creativity and patience.
The puzzle board and blocks are crafted from natural wood with smooth edges, finished with food-grade dye and natural oils. If you’re looking for low-toxin Christmas gifts, this real-life version of the video game will keep kids away from screens and getting creative these holidays.
ECO-FRIENDLY STOCKING FILLER FOR GIRLS
1. Double Layered Name Plaque
This double layer name plaque is made from wood with a top layer of acrylic. Customise the name colour and font to suit perfectly.
With this Name Plaque, your little princess will enjoy putting it in her room as a decoration or on her room as a statement piece.
2. Willow Pink Cotton Tee
This cute, comfortable and fashionable short-sleeve tee is a practical gift for any budding fashionista. The fabric is made from 100% combed cotton, so it won’t irritate your child’s sensitive skin.
The tee shirt features a lovely pink colour with a simple printed logo “untamed”. It’s available in sizes from 2 to 12, making it the perfect sustainable stocking filler for girls from toddlers to teens.
3. Fruits and Vegetables Play Set
Let your little one play sous chef in the kitchen with this bright and colourful set of wooden fruits and veggies. This play kit encourages imaginative play, which helps develop concentration, hand-eye coordination and motor skills.
Pieces can be ‘cut’ safely with the included wooden knife and may also be re-joined through the connecting Velcro®. This 14-piece wooden playset includes a carry bag for easy storage, making it an ideal eco-friendly stocking filler for a larger stocking or Christmas keepsake box.
4. Three Mamas Eco Glitter
Unlike regular glitter, these extra magical sparkles are plastic free and biodegradable. The film is sustainably sourced from eucalyptus cellulose. They are also cruelty-free and vegan-friendly. Use them as you would traditional glitter – whether for arts and crafts or handmade jewellery. They are also safe to use for face painting and as a body shimmer.
Three Mamas Eco Glitter is available in 8 lovely colours and is packaged in a reusable glass jar. They’re also a very affordable stocking stuffer, so why not pick up a few colours to include in your little girl’s Christmas stocking?
5. EverEarth Kid’s Camera
Your aspiring photographer will have imaginative fun taking pictures of her surroundings with this pretend-play wooden camera. This toy camera features a kaleidoscope lens, interchangeable lenses, push and twist buttons and a loop handle. It also comes with a sling bag for easy storage when your little one gets tired of snapping pictures.
If you’re going away for the holidays, this is the perfect eco-friendly stocking filler to bring along, so your little one can ‘capture’ all the action!
ECO-FRIENDLY STOCKING FILLERS FOR TWEENS
1. Friendship Bracelet Kit
When your little girl reaches her tweens, those connections with her peers become more important than ever. With this DIY kit, your child can start making bracelets and give them to their best friends.
This is a great sustainable Christmas gift as well as a fun school holiday project. The whole kit can make up to 8 bracelets and includes a guide book with easy-to-follow diagrams and instructions – and it’s the perfect size to tuck into your daughter’s Christmas stocking.
2. Coconut and Strawberry Lip Balm
This adorable all-natural lip-smacking balm also doubles as a lip moisturiser, making it extra versatile for young girls to keep on hand. It provides intense moisture and protection from harsh weather, leaving the lips soft and nourished.
And when it comes to eco-friendly stocking stuffers, this should be at the top of your list! This lip balm contains an all-natural blend of essential oils, flower waters, waxes and dried herbs. It has no artificial ingredients and it is free from palm oil and toxins.
3. Reusable Face Mask
Kids won’t be able to resist wearing this reusable face mask which features a super cute bear design. It’s also compact and made from 100% cotton, so if you’re needing to fill some nooks and crannies, this is the eco-friendly stocking filler you’re looking for!
Of course, this kids’ face mask is an especially practical gift at the moment. If you’re flying with the family or visiting relatives this year, this sustainable stocking stuffer will help keep kids safe for the journey. The mouth mask also has elastic ear loops and a secure nose bridge for a comfortable yet snug fit.
4. Bamboo Toothbrushes (Set of 4)
Time to swap plastic toothbrushes with this toothbrush set made from natural bamboo. The nylon bristles are recyclable, while the handle is compostable. This is a great stocking filler for sustainable families, especially if you have a compost heap at homes or get the kids involved in a community garden.
The package includes four toothbrushes, so it will last for a few rotations (or they can be shared among the family). All that’s left to decide is who gets which colour!
5. Planet Finska Mikado Pick Up Sticks
Take a trip down memory lane and challenge your kids to a game of pick-up sticks. This game involves mental and physical skill and it is fun for all ages – including the adults!
Unlike the traditional game, this modern version of the pick-up sticks game uses wooden sticks instead of plastic ones. It’s one of many toys that have been re-invented and re-designed for with the planet in mind – so don’t go past this engaging stocking filler made from sustainable hardwoods.
ECO-FRIENDLY STOCKING FILLERS FOR TEENS
1. Klean Kanteen Insulated Water Bottle
With Klean Kanteen reusable water bottle, your kids will learn to save money while saving the planet as well. Instead of buying single-use drinks in plastic bottles, they can refill this flask with water or any liquid they want – perfect to bring with them for the summer holidays.
This insulated water bottle is made from durable stainless steel, and it can keep drinks cold for up to 40 hours. It can also be used for holding hot beverages for as long as 12 hours. Give each family member a different colour in their Christmas stocking and you’ll always know who the bottle belongs to!
2. Dearest Lips Lip & Cheek Tint – Deep Coral
This handmade lip tint gives a flushed look that looks natural on the lips and cheek. It doesn’t feel heavy on the skin, and since it contains cocoa butter and shea butter, it will keep the lips and skin moisturized.
The push-up tube is compostable as well as the washi tape used in sealing the balm, so it’s a great sustainable stocking filler for teenage girls. Dearest Lips Lip & Cheek Tint is also available in Earthy Red, Pink Blush, Lavender & Hibiscus and Turkish Delight.
3. Dindi Man Shave Soap
This eco-friendly solution is the perfect stocking stuffer for teen boys (especially when you don’t know what else to get him for Christmas). This creamy and silky-smooth shaving soap from Dindi lathers easily while moisturising the skin. It contains organic Kaolin clay that allows the razor to glide smoothly over the skin, helping prevent razor burns.
This shaving soap also features a masculine scent and comes in a refillable tin can.
4. Reusable Wet Bag
This multifunctional storage bag is a practical gift to include in your teen’s Christmas stocking. It’s the perfect reusable option for storing swimwear, snacks, first aid kit, toiletries, dirty clothes or camping gear.
Your kids can bring this wet and dry bag when he goes swimming with friends or travelling, perfect for the Christmas holidays. The bag is made from PUL fabric, making it waterproof and odour-resistant – and because it helps avoid single-use plastic bags, this is a great sustainable gift idea too.
5. Eye Rest Pillow
Being a teen can be stressful too! This stocking filler is perfect for relieving headaches and tension. When placed over the eyes and forehead, this restorative eye pillow blocks light and provides a soothing weight, which aids in calming the eyes and facial muscles. The eye pillow contains lavender and flaxseed for a relaxing and refreshing scent.
Combine with a natural face mask or relaxing candle for the perfect eco-friendly stocking stuffer combo!
WRAPPING STOCKING FILLERS
When it comes to wrapping stocking fillers, there’s always a lot of debate: should gifts in a Christmas stocking be wrapped, or does that defeat the point? The benefits of wrapping are clear: not only does it add excitement when the time for opening presents comes, but it also prevents the little ones from seeing what’s inside if they try to sneak and take a peek before Christmas Day arrives.
But like the question of wasteful gift wrapping in general, many people find putting gifts in a Christmas stocking a good way to avoid gift wrap.
If you’re putting the stocking fillers in a Christmas keepsake box, you also may not need to wrap them as well. This is a good eco-friendly way to keep stocking stuffers ‘out of bounds’ until the appropriate time – or to give little gifts in a Christmas Eve box to keep little ones busy on December 24th. A personalised Christmas keepsake box can be reused year after year as a child grows, making it an extra special (and sustainable) Christmas tradition.
Some ethical stocking fillers with their own sustainable packaging, too, so you don’t have to wrap them. Instead, you may want to tie them up with twine – like those made from jute, hemp or cotton – for an environmentally-friendly gift-wrapping alternative.
If you really want to surprise your loved ones with wrapped gifts, you may consider sustainable alternatives when wrapping stocking fillers.
Instead of using brand new gift wrap, here are some eco-friendly ways to wrap your Christmas gifts:
- Old newspapers or pages from old books or magazines
- Rolls of toilet paper or kitchen towels
- Cardboard or cereal boxes
- Old t-shirts, blankets or shawls
- Cookie jars and tin cans
- Inside-out chip bags
- Recycled paper bags
- Old gift bags
- Reusable tote bags
- Real leaves and flowers, sprigs of mistletoe, holly or pine (as ornaments)
Finding appropriate stocking stuffers for kids of all ages can be one of the more difficult tasks each holiday season. With the above information in your hands, organising and budgeting your Christmas gift list will hopefully be less complicated and less stressful this year. By picking organic, ethically-sourced and biodegradable gifts, you are also creating an eco-friendly holiday tradition – something to be passed down to the next generation of responsible gifters.
