Save money on everyday items that don’t cost the planet

It’s a valid concern. Eco-friendly products often come with a higher price tag, and ‘greenwashing’ is still alive and well among big-name brands. No wonder so many of us feel overwhelmed trying to shop sustainably on a budget.

The good news? Plenty of companies are now creating affordable sustainable products that don’t compromise on values. These brands prove that living more consciously doesn’t have to cost the earth, literally or financially.

Here are some of our favourite budget-friendly sustainability brands:

1. smol: heavy on dirt, lighter on the planet (all at a price that’s fair)

Most standard cleaning products come in plastic packaging and are full of harsh chemicals. smol, a UK-based brand, offers innovative, concentrated, cruelty-free cleaning products delivered straight to your door. Think laundry capsules, washing up liquid, multi-purpose sprays, and dishwasher tablets; everything you need to keep your home clean without the plastic waste that comes with single-use bottles.

smol’s refills are recyclable and delivered direct whenever you need them, and their formulas are kind to skin and the environment. With subscriptions starting at just a few pounds per month, it’s a small switch that makes a big difference for both your wallet and the planet.

2. OceanSaver: low-cost eco cleaning that protects our seas

OceanSaver is changing the way we clean with their clever “eco-drops.” Mix these small, concentrated refills with tap water in a reusable bottle and voilà—a powerful, plastic-free cleaner you can reuse again and again.

Made with plant-based, biodegradable ingredients, OceanSaver products cut down on single-use plastic and reduce emissions from shipping bulky goods. You save money long-term and help protect marine life, too, as 1% of all profits go toward ocean conservation.

3. Buy Whole Foods Online: sustainable pantry staples in bulk that don’t cost the earth

Buying pantry essentials doesn’t have to mean extra plastic or higher prices. Buy Whole Foods Online offers a huge range of organic, non-GMO staples—from grains and legumes to nuts and dried fruits—at competitive prices.

Their value packs offer great savings per kilo compared to standard supermarket prices, and everything comes in recyclable packaging. A brilliant option if you’re feeding a family, or just looking to stretch your food budget while eating well.

4. Fussy: natural deodorant that’s good for you and the planet

Traditional aerosol deodorants and plastic tubes aren’t exactly eco-friendly. Fussy is changing that with refillable, natural deodorants made from gentle ingredients and packaged in stylish, compostable refills.

Their subscription model is easy on the wallet and helps you stay plastic-free. As a B Corp certified, carbon-neutral company, Fussy is a great swap if you want eco-friendly personal care that doesn’t sacrifice performance.

5. The Refillery: zero-waste grocery shopping made simple

Based in Edinburgh, The Refillery helps shoppers ditch unnecessary packaging by refilling their own containers with everyday staples; everything from pasta and oats to shampoo and washing-up liquid.

They also offer home delivery and click-and-collect with eco-packaging. It’s a smart way to cut back on waste, only buy what you need, and support plastic-free shopping in the UK; all while keeping costs low.

6. Edinburgh Tool Library: save money with shared tools

Why buy an expensive tool you’ll only use once? The Edinburgh Tool Library lets you borrow instead, whether you need a drill for DIY or garden shears for a weekend project.

Their affordable annual membership gives you access to a huge variety of tools. It’s a great example of the sharing economy too, reducing both clutter and waste while supporting a more sustainable, community-minded way to live.