Going plastic-free doesn’t mean lowering your standards. In fact, the right swaps often outperform their plastic counterparts. More brands are moving towards sustainable merchandise, not just for the planet, but because eco-friendly alternatives now deliver on quality, design, and practicality, and customers are taking notice.
If your merch still relies on single-use or high-waste plastics, now’s the time to rethink. These five swaps make the change easier than you’d expect. They're durable, cost-effective, and prove that going plastic-free is possible and a smart choice for your business.
1. Wheat Straw and Recycled Paper Pens
Plastic pens might be easy on your budget, but they’re tough on the planet. Most get tossed after a short time and end up in landfills for centuries. Try a friendlier and plastic-free option instead.
Pens made from wheat straw or recycled paper write just as smoothly and last just as long; plus, they break down in compost in only 6 to 12 months. These pens are light to carry, easy to brand, and built to last.
2. RPET and Cotton Canvas Tote Bags
Plastic tote bags might seem useful, but they wear out quickly and create microplastic waste. There’s a friendlier choice. Choose RPET or cotton canvas bags for a real upgrade.
RPET bags, made from recycled bottles, last 2 to 3 years and help reuse plastic. Cotton canvas bags are strong and durable, lasting up to 5 years, and break down naturally when it’s time to let them go. With sturdy handles and soft, premium fabric, these bags make every day a little easier and a lot more sustainable.
3. Bamboo and Stainless Steel Bottles
Many people rely on plastic drink bottles for convenience, but there’s an even better choice. Switching to bamboo or stainless steel bottles is a simple way to level up your merch.
Stainless steel bottles keep drinks hot or cold and last 5 to 10 years or more. Bamboo-lid bottles are light and practical for daily use.
Bamboo breaks down in just a few months, and stainless steel can be recycled again and again. This swap is easy, long-lasting, and great for your brand and the environment.
4. Wooden and Biodegradable Event Badges
Event badges don’t have to be wasteful. Instead of single-use plastic, try wooden or biodegradable badges. Bamboo and FSC-certified timber badges look great and last for years at team events or year after year.
For single-day activations, compostable cornstarch or PLA badges are perfect. The best part is these badges break down in just 6 to 24 months.
5. Cork and Wooden Keychains
PVC keychains may last a long time, but they stick around far too long, sometimes for centuries. Cork and wooden keychains are a friendlier option that you may want to consider.
Cork keychains are light, flexible, and last 2 to 4 years, breaking down in as little as 6 months and up to 3 years. Wooden options last up to 5 years and decompose in just 1 to 3 years. Both add a warm, thoughtful touch to your merch and show your commitment to making better choices for the planet.
Small Swaps, Big Impact
Let’s be real. Going for sustainable merch isn’t just a nice extra anymore. It’s the right thing to do. With a few easy swaps, you can keep the quality and style you love and leave plastic behind. Even better, most of these changes mean your products last longer, your brand stands out, and you get to feel good about your choices.
When your merch looks great, delivers impact, and breaks down the way nature intended, your brand stands for something people notice. At OTT Promotions, we love helping you share that message with merch that’s built for the present and the future. 🌱
Need ideas for your next campaign? Book a free strategy session to explore eco-friendly options tailored for your business.
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