Let’s Be Honest About Plastic-Free Merchandise

You’ve ticked the sustainability box. You’ve chosen an eco-friendly item. But here’s the uncomfortable truth:

If your plastic-free promotional products are collecting dust in a drawer, they’re not sustainable. They’re waste, just without the plastic.

At Over the Top Promotions, we’ve seen too many businesses mean well but miss the mark. Going eco doesn’t stop at materials. It’s about choosing branded merchandise that people actually want to use every day.

So, what plastic-free products do employees love and use?

Let’s break it down.

What Makes a Plastic-Free Product Worth Keeping?

Not all eco merch is created equal. The ones that stick (and get seen!) have three things in common:

✅ Useful. It solves a real problem
✅ Uncomplicated. Easy to carry, easy to use
✅ Unbranded in a good way. Clean branding that doesn’t scream "corporate gift"

Too many plastic-free promos go in the bin because they’re clunky, gimmicky, or worse, trying too hard to be sustainable.

Top Plastic-Free Products Employees Actually Use

Glass or Stainless Steel Bottles

In the world of plastic-free promotional products, drink bottles are an obvious go-to, but not all are created equal. The bottles your employees use share three non-negotiables:

✔ Lightweight and comfortable to hold
✔ Fits in a standard car cupholder or backpack sleeve
✔ Leakproof with an easy-access lid (no two-hand screw caps)

Pro tip: Avoid novelty shapes or heavy lids. Choose double-walled bottles with a carry loop for convenience.

Recycled Notebooks + Bamboo Pen Combos

Digital doesn’t mean paper is dead. People still reach for notebooks to jot down thoughts, especially during meetings. Recycled or stone paper gives you a sustainable edge. They're lightweight, easy to carry, and offer something a laptop can’t: instant focus.

Make it personal: Add a branded belly band with their name or a thoughtful quote.

Canvas Totes with Internal Pockets

The totes that employees would love to have are the ones that feel reliable with thick canvas, strong handles, and base that holds a laptop without tipping. Bonus points if they have internal pockets.

Stay away from flimsy giveaways. If the bag can't carry a laptop and lunchbox, it won’t be used.

Desk Items Made from Bamboo or Recycled Materials

Items like bamboo phone and laptop stands, charging docks, and desk organisers made from recycled or natural materials are some of the most consistently used and appreciated branded items in the workplace.

Why? Because employees are actively curating their workspace. Especially in hybrid setups, people want their desks to feel tidy, intentional, and a little bit personal.

Bonus value: Choose multifunctional pieces like a phone stand that doubles as a wireless charger or a bamboo organiser that fits pens, devices, and cards.

Products to Avoid Even If They’re Technically “Eco”

Just because it’s plastic-free doesn’t mean it works. Here’s what often goes wrong:

❌ Items with Loud, Overdone Branding
If your logo is too big or too flashy, people won’t use it. No one wants to carry something that feels like an ad.

❌ Heavy Bottles or Ones That Are Hard to Use
If it’s bulky, leaks, or is tricky to open, they probably won’t use it. People will grab something simpler.

❌ Cheap-Looking Compostable Items
Yes, they’re plastic-free, but if they feel flimsy or fall apart easily, they just seem low-quality. That reflects on your brand.

❌ Things People Don’t Know What to Do With
Random fillers like desk puzzles or generic pouches often just sit around. If it’s not useful, it gets tossed or forgotten.

Ready to Rethink Your Eco Merch Strategy?

At Over the Top Promotions, we help brands across Australia and the APJC region create plastic-free merchandise programs that work.

From onboarding packs to event giveaways to everyday brand touchpoints, we guide you through:

• Smart product curation
• Ethical sourcing
• Eco-packaging solutions
• And branding that’s subtle, clean, and spot-on

Want help choosing the right mix? Book a free strategy session with our team.