We’ve tested dozens of booze-free beverages for the best taste and functionality—these are our top favourites.

There are lots of reasons you could be refraining from drinking alcohol (and they’re all valid): You’re sober. You’re sober curious. You’re doing a Dry January (or a Sober October). You’ve had the worst hangover and are “Never. Drinking. Again!” (We’ve been there.) You’re prioritizing your health, you hate the way alcohol makes you feel, or simply how it tastes. Maybe you’re pregnant! Like we said, the list could go on and on.

Whatever the reason you might be abstaining, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the ritual of winding down with a special beverage. Whether you reach for a rocks glass or a stem glass, there are a handful of drinks that are making us rethink spirits and how delicious an alcohol-free drink can taste.

Our criteria: 

Our team has personally tested numerous zero-proof beverages and have rounded up our favorite non-alcoholic drinks below. We’ve considered the following:

• TASTE | Our team finds each one of these drinks pleasant in taste while still being reminiscent of your favorite alcoholic beverages (without the alcohol of course).
• FUNCTIONAL INGREDIENTS | More than sparkling waters and flavored sodas, these non-alcoholic beverages use natural plants, herbs, fruits, and flowers to benefit you in a different way.

Looking for more sober things to do? Try these 99 sober activities for your weekend.

Best Mocktail | Best Beer Alternative | Best Wine Alternative | Best Elixir | Best Botanical | Most Relaxing

1. hiyo

Vegan

Small business

Best For | Sparkling tonics
Features | Non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan, organic
Price | $45 for a 12-pack of 12 oz cans; subscriptions available

The founders of hiyo wanted to make an alternative to alcohol that was as delicious as it was healthy. Enter their mindful social tonics. These sparkling beverages are blended with organic adaptogens to counteract the effects of stress on the body and nootropics to support healthy brain functions. We love the summer-inspired flavors that Hiyo has to offer (Peach Mango, yes please). These drinks are great for a beach day or backyard barbecue, but a heads up—if you’re sensitive to the taste of sugar alternatives, you may notice it in these bevvies.

2. Curious Elixirs

Vegan

Fair trade

American made

Small business

Best For | Unique booze-free cocktails
Features | Organic ingredients
Price | $40 for four 12 oz/355 mL bottles or cans; subscriptions available

Handcrafted in the Hudson River valley, Curious Elixirs uses organic juices, spices, herbs, roots, barks, and botanicals for its elixirs. Whether you opt for the floral blend boosted with ashwagandha or the carbonated concoction cooled with ginseng, the drinks are best enjoyed on the rocks with your favorite garnish. The old-fashioned alternative is in our rotation this winter; it’s rich, flavorful, and perfectly dramatic in a whiskey tumbler for evenings by the fireplace. (For a celebratory non-champagne drink we recommend the Elixir #7!) Fair trade and free of added sugar, gluten, dairy, and nuts, your curiosity will surely be rewarded. Still not sure? Read our Curious Elixirs review!

3. WYNK

Budget friendly

Best For | THC & CBD infused seltzers
Features | Balanced ratio of THC:CBD, zero calories, zero sugar, crafted in-house
Price | $25 for a 6-pack of 7.5 fl oz cans

WYNK’s booze-free seltzers are all about keeping your drinking experience balanced, light and social–every single time. Made with the perfect ratio of THC:CBD, you’ll find that WYNK gives you a light, focused buzz that’s easily controlled with no aftertaste (in comparison to other edible cannabis products). Make the best zero-proof cocktails with a twist, from their collection of fruity flavors including lime, black cherry and even juicy mango! These drinks are perfect for a laid back social mixer or night in when you need to take the edge off without the effects of a hangover. Count us in!

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4. De Soi

Woman owned

Budget friendly

Recycled materials

Vegan

Best For | Botanical, booze-free bubbles
Features | Gluten-free, non-GMO, no artificial colors or flavors
Price | $25 for 750ml bottle or four 8oz cans; subscriptions and mixed sets available

Inspired by the French ethos of pleasure and restraint, De Soi (pronounced de-SWA) has a range of sparkling non-alcoholic apéritifs full of natural adaptogens. Botanicals like ashwagandha and reishi mushroom help mellow your mind and boost your mood, so you can enjoy a more considered happy hour. Founded by Morgan McLachlan and Katy Perry (yes, that Katy Perry!), De Soi is available in three signature flavors: Champignon Dreams, Purple Lune, and our editorial team’s personal favorite, Golden Hour. 

5. Ghia

Woman owned

Recycled materials

Vegan

Best For | Apertifs and spritzes
Features | Natural & botanical extracts, sustainable packaging
Price | $52 for 18.1 oz/535 mL bottle; $60 for 12-pack of 8 oz cans; subscriptions available

Non-alcoholic apéritif Ghia is inspired by the Mediterranean tradition of aperitivo—the traditional pre-meal drink intended to whet your appetite and prepare your stomach. It’s full of botanical extracts from ginger, gentian root, and rosemary, but the star ingredients are natural nervines (like lemon balm), which are herbs that support the nervous system. Ghia uses no caffeine, artificial flavors, or added sugars, and its packaging uses only biodegradable or recyclable materials. This is a favorite after-work treat for our founder who can attest to the delicious scent, taste, and experience of a freshly opened can of Ghia. Read our detailed review of Ghia for more insight!

6. Ritual Zero Proof

Recycled materials

American made

Best For | Whiskey, gin, tequila, and rum alternatives
Features | Gluten- and nut-free, non-GMO, no artificial flavoring, sustainable packaging, plastic neutrality, and carbon offsets
Price | $56 for one 750 mL bottle; subscriptions available

When you want all the smells and tastes of the traditional cocktail minus the booze, Ritual’s got you covered. Crafted by discerning friends and foodies looking to expand their options on the cocktail horizons, Ritual is a one-to-one liquor alternative to bar cart staples that delivers. If you’re craving an Old Fashioned, the brand knows you’re looking for a rich, subtle blend of sweet spice with a touch of bitterness, and their whiskey alternative doesn’t disappoint. They’ve labored over these recipes for their whiskey, rum, gin, and tequila replacements so you won’t have to do a thing besides swapping the liquor in your favorite cocktail. All natural and allergen-free ingredients make this swap a no-brainer. 

7. Wooden Spoon Herbs

Vegan

Woman owned

1% for the planet

Best For | Herb-based elixirs, tinctures, and non-alcoholic cider
Features | Certified organic herbal blends, plant-based, gives back
Price | Starting at $29 for 1oz herbal elixir; subscriptions available

Wooden Spoon Herbs was founded in an effort to make nature-based medicinal approaches to our everyday stresses easy, approachable, and pleasurable. With a background in studying herbalism at the Appalachian Center for Natural Health, founder Lauren Haynes takes her knowledge of cellular biology, folk healing, and phytochemistry to these organic tinctures, elixirs, and blends, each designed to target a specific and common concern. Make this Booze-Free Heavenly Herbaceous Mocktail using the the brand’s Rose Colored Glasses tincture for a tasty beverage that supports mental clarity, cognitive function, and overall immune health. Tinkering with tinctures is encouraged! Tailor your bevvy to your needs by adding or substituting blends to suit your exact desires.

8. Three Spirit

Vegan

Recycled materials

Made in the UK

B corp

Cruelty free

Best For | Adaptogen spirits & wine alternatives
Features | Plant-based, vegan, recycled packaging
Price | $39 for 16.9 oz/500 mL bottle or $27 for 25.4 oz bottle

We love Three Spirit for their plant-based alternatives to alcohol that “celebrate what you put into a drink, rather than what you take out.” Curated by plant scientists, bartenders, artists, and herbalists, the original three booze-free drinks they’re known for—Livener, Social Elixir, and Nightcap—are now joined by their new not-wine collection, Blurred Vines! Each drink is crafted with its own personality and supplemented by ingredients like valerian root or guayusa. Blended and bottled in the UK, you can also find them in the US online or at select stockists.

9. Kin Euphorics

Vegan

Woman owned

Best For | Euphorics-based cocktails
Features | Organic & plant-based ingredients
Price | $39 for eight-pack of 8 oz/237 mL cans; $39 for 16.9 oz/500 mL bottle; subscriptions available

Kin Euphorics wants to change the way we connect after dark. Crafted for nighttime—whether you’re socializing or slumbering—the “euphorics” combine plant-based ingredients (like hibiscus, orange peel, and cinnamon extracts) with cognition-supporting nootropics and natural adaptogens (like melatonin, reishi mushroom, and rhodiola rosea). Take your pick from the herbaceous High Rhode, spiced Dream Light, smooth Lightwave, or premixed citrus spritz—all vegan and free of gluten, dairy, or nuts. 

10. Avec

BIPOC Owned

1% for the planet

Small business

Best For | Low or no sugar mixers
Features | Real juice, all natural ingredients, low calorie & sugar 
Price | $36 for 12-pack of 8.45 oz. cans

As your tastes and standards have matured, surely your drink of choice should too. And while you might already be asking for top shelf booze, we bet you’ve forgotten to upgrade your mixer. Enter Avec, who knows that there’s more to your favorite cocktail than the cheap, tired ol’ soda water or sugary cola! With zippy all-natural flavors like yuzu & lime or spicy jalapeno & blood orange, your happy hour just got a glow up. At around 20 calories a pop and 80-90% less sugar than their traditional counterparts, this non-alcoholic drink can be enjoyed with your favorite spirit or alone on the rocks. Did we mention the brand is Black-founded and a member of 1% for the Planet? Excuse us as we add “The Sampler” to our cart now…

11. Little Saints

Woman owned

American made

B corp

1% for the planet

Best For | Adaptogen-based canned mocktails
Features | CBD, botanical terpenes, and Reishi extract blends, sugar free 
Price | $60 for twleve pack of 8 oz. cans

Founded by a former hydroponic farmer, Little Saints believes in the power of plant-based food innovations. With an approach that combines food science and sacred plant medicines, Little Saints reinterpreted classic faves like the negroni or mimosa into a sugar free mocktail. Each can is stacked with a blend of CBD, botanical terpenes, and Reishi mushroom blends to create a festive bevvy that tastes as good as it feels. 

12. Athletic Brewing Co.

Budget friendly

American made

B corp

Vegan

Best For | Seasonal and limited edition NA beers
Features | Vegan-friendly, non-GMO, organic ingredients, gives back
Price | $15 for six pack of 12 oz. cans; subscriptions available

Made for active people who love beer as much as they love fitness, Athletic Brewing Co. makes brews that deliver on flavor. The B Corp wants you to enjoy the trails with a fully stocked cooler of delicious non-alcoholic beers in all your favorite styles: from IPAs to brown ales to lagers to even seasonal flavors, this brand is making a range to satisfy the taste buds of the true beer lover. Search their site by style, flavor profile, or season to browse their extensive catalog of faithful brews. We also love that the brand gives up to $2 million each year towards trail and park cleanups, maintenance projects, construction, and access. Read our Athletic Brewing Co review here.

13. Rock Grace

Budget friendly

Woman owned

Best For | Non-alcoholic rosé
Features | Organic extracts, non-GMO
Price | $22–$39 for 25.4 oz/750 mL bottle

If you’re looking for a wine or champagne alternative, try the rosé-resembling Rock Grace. Using organic extracts from schisandra berry and rhodiola, plus rosewater and organic raspberry juice, the blush pink elixir is both fruity and floral, and best enjoyed chilled. (It also won two titles at the 2019 World Beverage Innovation Awards.) The calorie-free, non-GMO beverage is crafted without sugar, sweeteners, sulfites, preservatives, or allergens. Find recipes here!

14. Seedlip

Recycled materials

Best For | Botanical liquor alternatives
Features | Natural distillates & extracts, sustainable packaging
Price | $32 for 23.7 oz/700 mL bottle

Seedlip was born after founder Ben Branson was given a “sickly sweet pink mocktail” at a restaurant one night. Inspired to create an alternative, and combining his love of nature with his family’s farming background, Branson founded Seedlip to deliver distilled spirits sans artificial flavors. The blends include lemongrass mixed with ginger, allspice berries with oak bark, and pea with spearmint. Simply serve with tonic or mix to create your own mocktail. These elixirs are sugar- and calorie-free, too. 

15. VYBES

Vegan

Small business

American made

Best For | CBD drinks
Features | Certified vegan, organic, gluten-free, lab tested adaptogens and CBD elixirs
Price | $42 for six pack of 14 oz. bottles

VYBES knows that the fast-paced, productivity-obsessed world we live in can take a very real toll on our mental health and well-being. Their tasty line of beverages are crafted with cannabinoids and adaptogens, both natural plant derivatives, to deliver their relaxing effects during your next happy hour. Enjoy indulgent flavors like jammy Blackberry Hibiscus (designed by LA mixologist Nick Meyer), or their most popular Strawberry Lavender flavor after a hectic day. Simply pour over ice to let the mellowing effects of hemp CBD restore balance to your body and mind. 

Featured image from De Soi.

The post 15 Best Non-Alcoholic Drinks For A Relaxing Alternative (2023) appeared first on The Good Trade.

Then I took a step forward and realized that my body was no longer making idle threats. It was not, dear reader, just gas. 

What followed was what my husband Aaron lovingly calls my “emotional processing spiral”: First, private panic. Second, a confession to Aaron, mostly because of his proximity and his tendency to ask me what’s wrong. (This particular confession came with much mortification on my part, and an attempt to chill things out and understand the level of actual emergency on his part. I also made him swear not to tell anyone and declared I would be taking this secret to my grave.) Then back to private panic, where I assessed the situation. (I determined that the evening could go on, albeit with perhaps less cheese.) Finally, I started texting my people.

“Classic Shlo,” he said. “Can’t keep her own secrets to save her life.”

If I’ve already told my husband something, the next person I turn to is my mother. A text to my mom was followed almost instantly by a text to my best friend of nearly thirty years. And then, because we were expecting guests, a text to the friend who would be there in less than an hour, with the promise that she would refrain from sharing my embarrassing secret with her spouse, who was also coming. Somehow, in these texts and calls, the tone had crossed that thin line from horror to comedy, my phone cheerfully pinging with gleeful emojis and GIFs, peppered with reassurances that everything was okay, followed by even more emojis and GIFs. 

Within an hour of our friends arriving, I announced my secret to my friend’s spouse — you know, the one I had initially tried to keep out of the loop. Aaron was beside himself with mirth. In less than three hours I had told absolutely everyone I could get in contact with. “Classic Shlo,” he said. “Can’t keep her own secrets to save her life.”

It was the first time my emotional processing had been framed this way to me. I remember pausing when he said it, feeling out the words and trying to determine if they were true. At first, I was worried that it said something about my trustworthiness. But I do keep other people’s secrets — I honor the confidence entrusted to me by others. The more I sat with his phrasing, I realized two things: 1) Oh wow, I don’t keep my own secrets. 2) And, ohhhhh, it might actually be because I trust myself so much. 

“Huh,” I remember saying. “You’re totally right.”  

The problem with secrets

I have always been a sharer. (I am deliberately avoiding the term “oversharer,” because while I think we should hold ourselves accountable for what and to whom we share, I want to push back on the topics we typically include under the umbrella of — big air quotes — “TMI.”) There isn’t a single thing I have said or done that I have consciously kept to myself. The weirder, the harder, the uglier, the more difficult the experience, the more likely I will need to tell someone. 

“There isn’t a single thing I have said or done that I have consciously kept to myself.”

People often cannot believe what I’m willing to share about myself. The biggest reactions tend to be about anything related to my body and its habits and functions.

I get hormonal migraines, which is, yes, related to my menstrual cycle. I have IBS, which means that when I have “bouts” I’m talking about, yes, my digestive tract. I have had a baby, which means that among the oh-so-many fun physical effects, I have peed myself while laughing. I also breastfed, a wild, hard, beautiful, messy journey that deserves its own essay. 

In the moments when I realize I need a bathroom right away, or I’ve leaked milk through my shirt, it’s hard to imagine how I’m going to get through it with only slight embarrassment. I mean, it’s gross! It’s “against the rules” of what my body is supposed to be doing as an adult and as a woman (more air quotes here). All of these events impacted my daily life across the board, from logistical to psychological. Which means they have to be discussed in some way. 

“When we’re in the throes of embarrassment and self-disgust, it seems like putting the whole experience into a tightly-sealed box is in our best interest.”

When we’re in the throes of embarrassment and self-disgust, it seems like putting the whole experience into a tightly sealed box is in our best interest. But in my experience, this is a mistake. 

Keeping these boxed-up secrets has no benefit. In fact, it seems to be a surefire way to honor the embarrassment and self-disgust within it: a dark, neglected environment is just the kind in which these feelings thrive. It gets harder to take the lid off whatever container we’ve stored those things in as they grow, because dealing with them will become more complicated and messy. 

If we don’t put feelings and experiences into the box to begin with, we have to face the mess right away. As a result, we develop a productive relationship with a very tricky human emotion: shame. 

Shame vs. guilt

One of the first things psychologists will do when it comes to shame is to differentiate it from the feeling of guilt. Brené Brown calls guilt adaptive and helpful, saying that guilt holds “something we’ve done or failed to do up against our values,” resulting in the feeling of psychological discomfort. 

Shame, on the other hand, she defines as “the intensely painful feeling or experience of believing that we are flawed and therefore unworthy of love and belonging.” This typically comes from feeling like we’ve fallen short of a societal norm or expectation, some of which are so ingrained within us that we could be completely alone and still feel the effects of being judged. 

We feel guilty when we know we did something we can’t truly stand behind, because it doesn’t align with what we believe is right. Guilt asks to be addressed and corrected. And in my experience, guilt is often tied to a behavior or action I controlled. 

“When I feel shame, it has a similar quality to guilt, only it is almost always about something I have no control over at all.”

When I feel shame, it has a similar quality to guilt, only it is almost always about something I have no control over at all — take every example described at the beginning of this essay. It is a feeling that I messed up in a way that I am aware of but unable to do anything about. I feel judged, and I’m helpless to whatever the verdict might be. 

Maybe it’s the Type A tendencies in me, but I basically don’t do “helpless.” I am also an Enneagram 7, so I really don’t do “uncomfortable.” Lying back and accepting a yucky feeling about myself that I have no control over? Hard pass. That is my literal waking nightmare. Let’s review some other options, please. 

Empowerment through storytelling  

One of the best lessons I learned from my MFA in creative writing was to treat absolutely everything in my life as fodder. All those thorny, scary, uncomfortable things that happen in our lives make great subjects for poetry, essays, and fiction. Treating these experiences as material gives me distance from the negative feelings that can prevent any personal growth, and also lets me take back the power in a situation. 

“Whether I’m actually writing a story or I’m just texting everyone in my favorites list, I’m practicing storytelling, or narrative therapy.”

Whether I’m actually writing a story or I’m just texting everyone in my favorites list, I’m practicing storytelling, or narrative therapy. It transforms the experience from something that happened to me into a story I am telling you. Now, I have something I can laugh at, learn from, and even enjoy. And the magical part? I am telling you how to feel about it, based on how I choose to frame the story. 

Let’s look at my New Year’s Eve story. Is this an embarrassing tragedy? Only if I say so. How about a cautionary tale about what happens when you’re willing to gamble intestinal health on a cheese board? I have definitely told it this way. What about a vulnerable, amusing anecdote to open a sincere essay about self-compassion? Hmm…that sounds familiar!

“Note that you don’t actually need to share your stories with anyone to practice this approach.”

It is important to note that you don’t actually need to share your stories with anyone to practice this approach. While I can’t seem to help but put myself on blast, there are other ways, like journal therapy, to keep your privacy without accidentally building up a hoard of secret shame. There are many wonderful resources out there to find what might work for you. And there’s nothing like a good counselor or therapist to help you find the root of chronic feelings. 

Talking and writing about experiences is how I make sense of my life. And it has had an overwhelmingly positive impact, from helping me to find true community, to strengthening my regenerative creative muscles, to helping those in my care (students, mentees, family members) practice their own radical self-compassion. 

I think that’s ultimately what ends up happening when I share my most embarrassing, guilty, ugly moments: I am showing myself compassion. I’m trusting to love myself enough to handle whatever judgment might come my way. And in doing so, I’m not only modeling how others can practice it for themselves, but I’m also setting a bar for the kind of treatment I’m willing to accept from others. If the bar is high enough, some of those dark, dank emotions that like to lurk in the crawl spaces around us simply won’t be able to reach.

Stephanie H. Fallon is a writer originally from Houston, Texas. She has an MFA from the Jackson Center of Creative Writing at Hollins University. She lives with her family in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, where she writes about motherhood, artmaking, and work culture. You can find her on Instagram or learn more on her website.

The post Why I Don’t Keep Any Of My Own Secrets appeared first on The Good Trade.

I recently ruptured my Achilles tendon and tore my ankle ligament in what I would say was a desperate attempt at “self-care.” I got injured in a basketball game — playing basketball brings me peace, especially in my busy life — but while I was getting triple-teamed by the opposing players, I jumped and heard a snap. I was on the ground and my foot went numb.

Being a cis-gender male engulfed in toxic masculinity, I’ve always been convinced I must do it all. Before the injury, I worked 12–14 hour days, which consisted of my 9–5 job with the school board as an Intervention Support Worker, then my personal businesses as a Youth Coach providing academic and socio-emotional support to clients, and running a basketball skills training program. My days would start at 7:45 am and I wouldn’t get home until 11:00 pm. In addition to that — yes, in addition to that —I frequently weight trained and played in two competitive basketball leagues, subsequently making the “All Star” Class in both leagues. 

Things were going great! 

“There was already some underlying tension and unexpressed anger towards my chosen lifestyle.”

However, just a week before All-Star festivities and the Montreal trip I had planned with my partner, my body gave out on the basketball court. 

Before we go on with the story, did you notice when I mentioned the 12–14 hour days? None of this included any time spent with my long-term partner. So you can guess there was already some underlying tension and unexpressed anger towards my chosen lifestyle. One can only imagine the emotions when I made that phone call.

“Hey babe, are you still awake? Can you take me to the hospital right now?”

This is not what anyone wants to hear when they’ve been waiting for you to come home. Words cannot express the look my partner had on her face when we were in the emergency room. 

It took months for my body to heal, and during this time, there was a lot of critical self-reflection and countless conversations with my partner. My healing was delayed for the first month and a half, as I was misdiagnosed. It was first ruled as a high Achilles sprain and it was not until almost two months after that I was diagnosed with an Achilles rupture and a torn ankle ligament. This delayed my healing process and kept me immobile at home for the next six months, giving me time to sit and reflect.

“I was programmed at a very young age to believe that men are only conditionally loved.”

Why did I work 14-hour days, seven days a week? I was programmed at a very young age to believe that men are only conditionally loved — i.e., they are only loved if they can provide. My worth, I was told, was directly linked to how much money I made and how many things I could own. 

The sad reality is that this, to a degree, is the truth. Coming from an immigrant and low-income household in a high-priority neighborhood meant pre-existing barriers existed. I grew up surrounded by drugs and gang violence. I’ve since overcome these obstacles, becoming the first person in my family to attend university and graduate with a degree. 

My family always struggled with financial issues. And my father had few financial literacy skills and a gambling addiction. This left me with a bad relationship with money and perpetuated my fixed mindset and lacking mentality that I’ve been carrying until now. At a young age, I was told that because my father didn’t amount to anything, I wasn’t going to either.

I destroyed my body and put my happiness aside to create a life for my partner and me that would be farthest away from my upbringing. My resentment for my father and striving to never be in that similar position again inevitably kept putting me in the same situation: broke(n). Only now do I truly know what it means to change my lacking mindset in order to live in abundance. 

“I was simply chasing an illusion, chasing something I had already possessed.”

It’s taken me 30 years, but I can proudly say I forgive my father. I carried this resentment for many years, and the sad thing is, my father doesn’t even realize that he did anything. My lingering resentment perpetuated my financial demise despite my goals to avoid it. I absorbed his fixed and lacking mindset, not realizing that I am not the same person or in the same position. I now see he was an immigrant whose only job was to provide and survive. There was no ability to self-actualize and live beyond fight or flight. His mindset, whether I agree with it or not, allowed me to become who I am today.

I can self-actualize and freely decide what direction I want to take because of the basic necessities he was able to provide. I am now at a different stage where I can make decisions that don’t affect my immediate livelihood. I can afford to miss work because of my education and high-paying jobs. I lived in abundance already but could not see it. I was simply chasing an illusion, chasing something I had already possessed.

Phu H. Ta is a Toronto-based artist with a decade of experience in the Social Work Field, specializing in Mental Health & Wellbeing for At-Risk Youth. He is a proud owner of Your Honest Coach & Legacy Hoops Basketball League. Follow his journey on Instagram.

The post Reader Essay: How Forgiveness Brought Abundance Into My Life appeared first on The Good Trade.

The holidays have always been a mixed bag of emotions for me. I was raised Jewish, with a Dad who celebrated Christmas. My relationship with my Dad has always been strained to say the least. When I was younger, seeing him during Christmas filled me with anxiety — and as I got older and had a say in how I spent the holidays, this time instead became filled with a sort of emptiness and grief. I was simultaneously grateful that I wasn’t forced to see him and also yearned for the joyful, family-centered celebrations that many of my friends seemed to have.

While my relationship with my Jewish mom is a bit easier, it’s still complicated. I often find myself unsure of what to do with my time while everyone else celebrates Christmas with their families, and wishing that I could do the same. But as I gain more acceptance about my relationship with my parents, I see that the holidays can be a time for rest, recuperation, and reflection on what family and community mean to me.

“I know I’m not alone in my complicated holiday feelings.”

I know I’m not alone in my complicated holiday feelings. Being estranged from a parent or family can be incredibly painful. The holidays exacerbate this by creating a complex web of memories, expectations, and emotions — one that’s not talked about enough. So many people are left feeling lonely, confused, frustrated, angry, or grieving, while also wanting to find some joy and rest during their time off. 

If you have complicated feelings around the holidays, you’re not alone. We’re here to examine why estrangement is so hard during this season and how to support yourself through it.

What emotions can come up during the holidays?

Every person is unique, and so are their relationships with their families. The way the winter holidays combine and resonate will be different for each of us as well. But for many estranged from their family or a parent, there is a particular set of emotions that surfaces during this time of year.

“Estrangement contains a painful paradox at its very core.”

Mary Beth Somich, LCMHC, is a licensed therapist in private practice in Raleigh, NC. She specializes in family dynamic work and boundary-setting. Her Instagram is full of practical mental health tools, especially around family dynamics and relationships. She often works with clients on the many challenges that can come up during this time of year, and we’ve asked her to shed some light on the topic for us.

Somich explained, “A complicated mix of emotions can arise for those who have complicated relationship dynamics or are estranged from their families. These may range from grief and sadness to relief, depending on the specific circumstances surrounding the estrangement.” She emphasized that estrangement contains a painful paradox at its very core. “Ultimately, no one ‘wants’ to be estranged from those who are supposed to be their primary attachment figures, and when this decision is made, it is typically not an easy one and has been a process of failed attempts at a successful relationship. Thus, frustration, hopelessness, guilt, and loneliness can also play a role.”

“No matter how much pain a parent or family member has put you through, no one wants to cut them out of their life or have a difficult relationship with them.”

No matter how much pain a parent or family member has put you through, no one wants to cut them out of their life or have a difficult relationship with them. Unfortunately, this estrangement often comes from a place of needing to set boundaries for your well-being. That doesn’t mean you don’t feel the pain or emptiness that relationship has caused. As a result, many will feel some combination of relief and mourning.

Why is estrangement so hard during this time?

In our normal day-to-day, it can be easy to block out the impact of these relationships. Then come the holidays, with their accompanying wave of sticky emotions. You may feel jealous seeing close-knit families, frustrated with your own family, or a sort of yearning and loneliness from not having connection and support.

As Somich puts it, “[T]he holidays are typically depicted through images of loved ones gathering, sharing special moments, and making memories. When you are estranged from your family, you may feel a void or absence of this possibility.”

“Between holiday movies, people asking about holiday plans, and giant trees set up in very public places, we live amongst constant reminders of warm holiday embrace.”

Between holiday movies, people asking about holiday plans, and giant trees set up in very public places, we live amongst constant reminders of warm holiday embrace. While those with positive relationships with their families may sink into that love and celebration, those with estranged relationships feel an intensification of their pre-existing feelings.

These emotions can be big and overwhelming but there are ways to make this season a little easier.

Tips and tools for getting through the holiday season

The holidays can be hard but they can also be a time for healing and reflection. As difficult as it can be, when big emotions or painful memories come up, they are more available for us to start to examine them and decrease their hold.

Somich shared some helpful tips on how to prepare for and get through the holiday season:

• When difficult feelings arise, it’s important to focus on self-compassion. Know that what you’re feeling is valid, and there’s no need to correct your feelings.
• Take some time to evaluate how you will feel supported, included, and loved this holiday season. Consider making a list of those who provide positive experiences in your life.
• Seek out meaningful connection and companionship. This could be a Friendsgiving-style gathering or a special vacation with another friend over the holidays. Don’t assume that everyone is already occupied.
• Finally, it is vital to process your feelings (particularly grief) as they arise. Ideally, this would be with a therapist or trained professional who can support you. Other forms of emotional release such as journaling and exercise often have a supportive impact when it comes to managing emotions, as well.

If you need a little more guidance, try reflecting on these journal prompts either with yourself, with a therapist, or with your chosen family:

• What does family mean to me?
• What patterns am I ready to stop repeating?
• What traditions or rituals can I start to create my own experience of the holidays?

No matter what you’re experiencing or processing this holiday season, know that you’re not alone. This is a complicated time, but it can get easier, especially with additional foresight. As a result of working through your emotions, you may even start to look forward to the holidays as time you’ve reclaimed for yourself. Remember who your people are and know that they are there to support you even through the winter holidays.

Natasha Weiss is a Pacific Northwest-based health and wellness copywriter and full-spectrum doula. When she’s not typing away, she loves immersing herself in bodies of water, wandering through ancient forests, and anything and everything to do with food. You can learn more about her work on natashaweiss.com or connect on Instagram.

The post Healing Through The Holidays: Strategies For Coping With Estrangement appeared first on The Good Trade.

But what is a solstice, exactly? Let’s explore the science.

The earth’s tilted axis (23.5º relative to the ecliptic plane) directly impacts the amount of sunlight we do or don’t get throughout the year. This tilt, along with our planet’s orbit, creates both astronomical and meteorological seasons. According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, “…astronomical seasons are based on the position of Earth in relation to the sun, whereas the meteorological seasons are based on the annual temperature cycle.” 

When following the astronomical seasons, there are two solstices and two equinoxes to mark the change in meteorological seasons. The winter solstice happens between December 20 and 23, and it’s when the earth’s axis tilts away from the sun, making it the shortest day and longest night of the year for those living in the Northern Hemisphere. In the Southern Hemisphere, it’s reversed. (The word “solstice” derives from the Latin word sōlstitium and translates to “sun stands still.” ) This year, the winter solstice will happen on December 21.

There’s not an exact recorded time when humans first started observing the solstice, but monuments like Chichén Itzá, Stonehenge, and the Goseck circle indicate that people have been honoring the astronomical seasons for years.

Today, the winter solstice is a reminder to honor our connection to the natural world. It is a way we can celebrate the change in seasons without traditional holidays, gifts, or decorations. Instead, we can honor winter through rituals and self-care, looking specifically to our ancestors and heritage for inspiration rather than co-opting from others (a form of cultural appropriation).

“Today, the winter solstice is a reminder to honor our connection to the natural world.”

Here are a few ideas: 

1. Consider practicing a pagan yule candle tradition (a tradition with European roots). Create an altar with items that bring you joy and peace, and surround it with candles. Light the candles as a symbol of the sun’s ability to give us both life and light.

2. Wake up early on the day of the winter solstice to watch the sunrise. Close your eyes, and feel the sun’s warmth on your face. Observe how the sun lights up the world around you. Bring a journal and write down any thoughts that come to mind.

3. Create a traditional winter feast with warming foods to eat on the night of December 21. Have fun creating a meal that warms and nourishes the body.

4. Draw a winter solstice bath, adding citrus essential oils to symbolize the energy of the sun.

5. Create something handmade that honors the sun or the natural world, such as a wreath from what you have around your house or backyard. Paint or draw the sun. Grab an instrument you haven’t played in a long time and write a song; then share it with loved ones.

“Wake up early on the day of the winter solstice to watch the sunrise […] Write down any thoughts that come to mind.”

However, you chose to bring rituals and new traditions into your life, make time to appreciate the natural world. Wherever you are, embrace how the air and the sky change, and on the coldest days, know the sun is right around the corner. 

Courtney Jay Higgins is a writer at The Good Trade. She is also a yoga instructor, health enthusiast, and sustainable fashion advocate. You can find more of her writing and take one of her online yoga classes on her website Coincide.

The post What Is Winter Solstice, And How Can We Celebrate? appeared first on The Good Trade.

We’ve tested dozens of eyeshadows — these are our picks for the best natural, non-irritating, and long-lasting eyeshadows across a range of price points.

Whether we’re giving ourselves a full and dramatic look or aiming for an au naturale aesthetic, our eyeshadow can change with every mood and move we make. The options are endless: matte, metallic, subtle, shimmery, bright, bold! Still, instead of using just any eyeshadow, we’re opting for palettes made with natural and organic ingredients. Our skin absorbs what we put on it, so we want the best.

Why consider organic eye shadow?

Our eye area is one of the most delicate regions of our body and conventional eyeshadows can be harsher on our skin than their organic counterparts. Synthetic chemicals, dyes and preservatives are common ingredients in eyeshadows, which can be an issue especially if you’re prone to skin sensitivity or allergies. Organic eyeshadows typically derive their color from natural dye pigments like fruits, minerals and plant extracts while also being free from ingredients that contain pesticides, GMO’s and fertilizers. Most organic brands are also vegan and cruelty-free and have respect for sustainable practices that reduce harm to animals and the planet. These factors are the reason why organic eyeshadow is a lot gentler and safer not only for our eye region, but for the environment. 

Our editors have tested dozens of natural beauty brands and these eyeshadows are ones we keep reaching for again and again. Each of the products on this list are made with non-irritating ingredients and provide long wearing color.

For a totally natural beauty cabinet, check out these organic makeup brands, our favorite mascaras and foundations and complete the look.

Best Overall | Most Affordable | Most Options

1. ILIA Beauty

Vegan

Cruelty free

1% for the planet

Woman owned

Best For | Warm nudes
Natural Ingredients | Zinc, jojoba seed oil, honeysuckle flower extract
Price | $40

If you’re looking for a palette that can be used both day and night, opt for the palettes from ILIA Beauty. The colors—“Grace” is a soft gold pearl while “Hunter” is a deep brick red—are highly pigmented and come in a variety of matte, metallic, or satin finishes. The talc-free formula also includes natural antioxidant vitamin E and nourishing jojoba oil for a buttery, crease-proof look. Whether you’re opting for soft eyes in the office or a smoky eye after work, you can build layers of beautiful colors.

ILIA Review | “These colors are beautiful and have good pigmentation . You don’t need a lot, and it looks amazing – so effortless.” – Jocelyn P. (See all reviews)

Also available at:
Credo
The Detox Market

2. 100% PURE

Plant trees

American made

Cruelty free

Best For | Soft, neutral colors
Natural Ingredients | Rice starch, rosehip seed oil, avocado butter, natural mineral stones & fruit extracts
Price | $20–$55

If you’re looking for soft, neutral colors to add to your makeup drawer, look no further than 100% PURE’s award-winning eyeshadows. Beloved and praised by hundreds of customers, these shadows are made with vitamin-rich fruit and vegetable pigments (instead of synthetic dyes) to create stunning and shimmery colors. Best of all, the shadows include colors for all kinds of skin types.

100% PURE Review | “Used this pallet for my wedding makeup and it was gorgeous! I get so many compliments every time I wear it.” – Amanda (See all reviews)

3. Well People

Budget friendly

Cruelty free

Fair trade

Best For | Versatility
Natural Ingredients | Mica, jojoba seed oil, grapeseed oil, rice starch, olive oil
Price | $22

Want to go from natural to runway-ready all with one collection? You’ll be pleasantly surprised by Well People‘s affordable eye shadows. Made with vegan ingredients and organic botanicals, these colors add a gorgeous shimmer to your look, morning or night. We love how these shades are universally flattering and don’t crease!

Well People Review | “I love this palette. No irritation and I’ve been using it for over a year. I also mix shades to deepen my eyebrow color and it blends perfectly!” – Cat (See all reviews)

Also available at:
Credo
Target

4. Sappho

Budget friendly

Plastic/Pfas free

Vegan

Cruelty free

Woman owned

Best For | Plastic-free compact
Natural Ingredients | Mica, calendula, chamomile flowers, jojoba seed oil, argan, thyme, rosemary oil
Price | $21

We’re adding a little twist to this list with a refillable shadow option. Sappho is a natural and organic cosmetic brand with compact palettes perfect for the DIY-er who wants to handpick their own colors. The paper compacts are sold unfilled, so you’ll need to order shadows separately. This compact (size square) can hold up to nine shadows, which means you can build the color scheme of your dreams. Eco-friendly, reusable, and recyclable. Swoon!

Sappho Review | “After years struggling with allergy issues I finally found Sappho. I can finally wear eyeshadows again! These compact refills are a perfect size and can be applied wet or dry, great colors available and the magnetic pack to keep them all together is fantastic!” – Julie R. (See all reviews)

Also available at:
The Detox Market

5. Burt’s Bees

Budget friendly

Recycled materials

Best For | Blendable eyeshadows
Natural Ingredients | Bamboo, honey, vitamin E
Price Range | $13

Burt’s Bees not only specializes in lip balms, but their natural makeup line is impressive! The mineral Eye Shadow Trio compact deposits long-lasting pigment onto your skin without any of the harmful ingredients. Free from parabens, petrolatum, and synthetic fragrances, this blendable and smudge-free formula creates the perfect everyday eye look without having to overthink it. And it’s also dermatologist approved! Choose from 6 travel-friendly colors that are perfect to toss into a bag for a touch of color wherever you go. 

Burt’s Bees Review | “Love these for a day OR nighttime smokey. Smooth, blendable, soft colors for my sensitive eyes. More please!!” – TashBC (See all reviews)

Also available at:
Target

6. RMS Beauty

Recycled materials

Cruelty free

Woman owned

Best For | Luminous cream eyeshadow
Natural Ingredients | Organic tea extract, natural peptides
Price Range | $64 for a set of three

RMS Beauty was founded by Rose-Marie Swift back in 2009, and to this day continues to champion clean beauty in the makeup industry. Each product is formulated with natural, food grade, and organic ingredients that are gentle on the skin and cruelty-free. The Eye Love Trio kit is a staple for glam and bold looks, with its metallic shades that are light-reflective and luminous. With products made with PCR materials, a recycling program in place, and a new refillable product available, RMS Beauty continues to inspire a new generation of sustainable beauty. 

RMS Beauty Review | “Love. So moisturizing. Lots of pigment. Easy to put on and stays on 10-12 hrs without creasing. Washes off with just water. Love this so much. I have 5 colors!” – Esther M. (See all reviews)

Also available at:
Credo
The Detox Market

7. Kjaer Weis

Recycled materials

Woman owned

Best For | Universally flattering shades
Natural Ingredients | Bamboo, ethically-sourced mica, honeysuckle flower
Price Range | $32

Kjaer Weis’ versatile eyeshadow compacts are inspired by nature. aAvailable in a set of either light or dark, these palettes are specially designed to compliment your skin tone no matter your shade. These shadows can be built up whether you’re look for a more subdued look or total bold. The combination of both matte and glimmery shades help create a variety of looks that enhance your eyes and skin tone, not to mention they are super blendable! Once you hit pan, refills are available for purchase, keeping packaging sustainable. 

 Kjaer Weis Review | “I love this eyeshadow. I use it almost every day. It’s a nice neutral shade that gives just enough color.” – Camille V. (See all reviews)

Also available at:
Credo
The Detox Market

8. Beautycounter

Recycled materials

Woman owned

Cruelty free

Best For | Talc-free formulas
Natural Ingredients | Sunflower seed wax, kaolin, lauroyl lysine
Price Range | $45

Cruelty-free brand Beautycounter is all about performance makeup made from skin safe ingredients. The Essentials Eye Palette comes in five universally-flattering shades that are talc-free and seamlessly glide onto the eyelid. Lauroyl lysine is the featured ingredient (derived from coconut fatty acid) that gives Beautycounter’s eye palette a silky soft feel. We love that the brand tests all their products for heavy metals ensuring high safety standards are met across the board. 

Beautycounter Review | “Goes on so smoothly, no caking or smudging in the creases. Love the colors.” – Belle H. (See all reviews)

9. Axiology

Cruelty free

Vegan

Plastic/Pfas free

American made

Woman owned

Small business

Best For | Multi-use crayons
Natural Ingredients | Organic castor oil, kokum butter, organic sunflower oil, organic hemp seed oil, vitamin E oil, organic neem oil
Price Range | $38 for a set of three

Axiology makes multi-use makeup that goes beyond a single use. Their Balmie Trio Set contains three vegan crayons that can be used for your eyes, lips and cheeks (or wherever you see fit!). Each creamy pigment contains the same amount of product that would be found in a lipstick, and comes in a plastic-free tube keeping it eco-friendly. Made with 9 naturally-derived ingredients, including hemp oil and elderberry, these sticks will freshen up your look and nourish your skin from within! Bonus: no more carrying around multiple products, as this stick has got you covered!

Axiology Review | “My lips are sensitive to many lipstick brands out there. This one the color and pigmentation are gorgeous but also, did not dry out or irritate my lips. Love, can’t wait to try more colors” – Blanca (Read all reviews)

Also available at:
Credo
The Detox Market

Featured image by Ilia

The post 9 Clean Eyeshadows Made With Natural Ingredients appeared first on The Good Trade.

We’ve researched and tested dozens of wine clubs — these are our picks for the best natural, sustainable, or organically farmed wines across a range of price points. 

To elevate our at-home dining experiences, we’re turning to wine for the perfect touch. Reds are for our cozy evenings indoors, and sparkling whites make for the most bubbly happy hour at the park. But with thousands of wines around the world, it’s hard to know which one to choose—we can’t be the only ones overwhelmed in fancy bottle shops, right? That’s why we turn to wine subscriptions for easy and stress-free selection from a wide variety of quality wines. 

Why choose organic wine?

Organic wine is a great choice if you’re looking to be more conscious of the ingredients you’re choosing to consume.They reduce the risk of consuming pesticides and synthetics from conventional grapes alongside being GMO-free. Consuming organic wine is also better for the environment as organic vineyards prioritize soil health, water conservation processes and renewable energy use, lowering their overall carbon footprint. Some even say that the true and authentic terroir of organic wine shines through as conventional wines with added synthetics can impact the true flavor of the wine. The more you know!  

For this guide, we’ve researched and tested wines from some of the best natural winemakers and sommeliers responsibly sourcing from around the globe, from California to Italy, — you’re welcome! In our opinion, these wine clubs and subscription services curate the best natural, sustainable, or organically farmed wines (and then deliver them directly to your doorstep!) We’ll cheers to that. 🥂

Looking for more options for your table? Here are our guides to organic meal kit delivery and the best nonalcoholic elixirs.

Best Overall | Most Affordable | Most Organic

1. Mysa

1% for the planet

Budget friendly

Small business

Best For | Direct-to-consumer natural wines
Standout Ethic | Member of 1% of the Planet
Price | Starting at $85/month for 3 bottles

For natural wines you’ll never find in restaurants or fancy wine stores, women-owned Mysa is our go-to subscription. This direct-to-consumer wine importer works with small producers (making less than 5,000 cases per year) and shares their stories, tasting notes, and food pairing suggestions with you. Choose three, six, or a dozen bottles to be delivered on a monthly or quarterly basis, and experience natural additive-free wines the way they were meant to be enjoyed!

Mysa Review | “I’ve been a wine club member for a little over two years now and a Mysa customer for just over three. I’ve always been super happy with the club and love the fun of trying new things! I also appreciate always having something interesting on hand for guests and gifts. When I want to choose add-on bottles, the staff are always super helpful with recommendations and quick to respond to emails! If you’re on the fence, just do it :)” – Michelle (See all reviews)

2. Plonk Wine Club

Small business

Woman owned

Best For | Customizable wine cases
Standout Ethic | Organic and biodynamically farmed wines
Price | Starting at $110/month for 4 bottles

Curious to learn more about sustainable, small-batch wines? Plonk Wine Club is for you. This subscription is curated with both novice and sophisticated wine lovers in mind, and it includes organic, biodynamic, and seasonal wines grown by small-scale farmers around the world. We especially love the use of undiscovered native grapes from lesser-known appellations, and that you can customize your shipments. Choose between a mixed, red, or white wine box, with up to 12 bottles per box.

Plonk Wine Club Review | “I can’t believe some of the amazing wines in our mystery case! This is our second mystery case from Plonk and they never disappoint. Shipping is lightning fast and the wines are first rate” – Angie B. (See all reviews)

3. Avaline

Vegan

Woman owned

Small business

Best For | 100% organic and natural wine with no added sugars or other additives
Standout Ethic | Full label, ingredient, and producer transparency
Price | Starting at $245/case (choose delivery for every month, two months, or three months)

Avaline was born when founders Cameron Diaz and Katherine Power realized that they didn’t actually know what was in their favorite wines. It turns out that the wine industry isn’t legally required to disclose a lot about what’s in their bottles, or even how it’s produced. Avaline wines are guided by an ethos of full transparency— their ingredients and contents are listed on every bottle, and they work with eco-conscious and ethical producers to create their 100% organic and natural wines without any of the 70+ common additives found in other bottles. With a subscribe and save model that allows you to build a case at a delivery frequency that works for you, we say sign us up!

Avaline Review | “Very refreshing…loved the clean taste. Will certainly keep stock on hand” Heidi P. (See all reviews)

4. Lady of the Sunshine

Small business

Family owned

American made

Best For | Seasonal subscriptions
Standout Ethic | Regenerative, organic, and biodynamically farmed wines
Price | Starting at $150 for 6 bottles twice a year

Only about 10 percent of wineries and vineyards are women-owned and operated, a devastatingly high disparity. That’s why we’re big fans of Lady of the Sunshine, run by Gina Giugni, a second-generation biodynamic farmer and winemaker in California. Sign up for this wine club if you’re more of a seasonal drinker: You’ll receive two shipments a year in the spring and fall, along with access to small production bottling, cellar tastings, winemaker dinners, and more. This wine club is a true testament to California’s golden sunshine.

Lady Of The Sunshine Review | “Love it! Can’t wait to taste new wines next year. Down to our last couple of cases of Stolpman Vineyards Sauvi B, it’s been an incredible by the glass pour for us! Thank you for making such beautiful wines, Gina!” -@potagerdenver (See more reviews)

5. Orange Glou

Small business

Family owned

Best For | Skin-contact wines
Standout Ethic | Natural wine, using chemical- and plowing-free methods
Price | Starting at $105/month for 3 bottles

For a truly unique wine subscription, Orange Glou is our go-to. Each box is curated by Doreen Winkler, named by Forbes as one of “America’s Top Sommeliers.” In addition to sourcing wines that offer the purest expression of the grape and terroir, Doreen is also passionate about orange wine (yes, orange!)—so anticipate the most interesting and distinct orange wines in the world, delivered right to your doorstep.

Orange Glou Review | “I discovered the Orange Glou subscription service in late 2019 (or early 2020?) and have been a loyal subscriber ever since. On top of Doreen clearly being a master of orange wine, she is so friendly and passionate about what she does and it shows with the personal touches and care she shows to her customers. The wine is amazing, and it’s great to be able to get such a large variety of orange wines all the way down here in Charlotte, NC. I only wish I lived in NYC so I could be a shop regular!” – Elizabeth G. (See all reviews)

6. Dry Farm Wines

Family owned

Vegan

Best For | Sugar-free artisan wines
Standout Ethic | Organically farmed, sugar free, additive free, lower alcohol, lower sulfite, lab tested wines
Price | Starting at $186/month for 6 bottles

Dry Farm Wines does wine subscriptions with health in mind. Each artisan-made wine in their subscription box receives a Seal of Integrity, ensuring the purity and high quality of its composition. All the wines you’ll receive are sugar free, farmed organically, additives free, vegan, and contain lower alcohol levels for more mindful consumption. Made from grapes grown on small family farms with European Heritage Practices in place, you’ll experience elevated healthy wines at a fraction of the cost. Choose from 6 or 12 bottle subscription packages and your choice of white, red, rosé, sparking or a mix!

Dry Farm Wines Review | “Love these wines!! They give me no adverse reactions. Tastes great! Love supporting small vineyards.” – Julie S. (See all reviews)

7. Terroirizer

Budget friendly

Best For | Seasonal wines
Standout Ethic | Natural wines & wide selections
Price | Starting at $75/month for 3 bottles

For open minded wine connoisseurs who seek natural and distinctive wines, try Terroirizer’s Wine Club subscription. For only $75 a month, you’ll receive three bottles of seasonal wine that match your preferences. These wines are not ones you’ll come by often (if ever!) and are perfect if you’re into trying new artisanal wines frequently, or just love throwing wine parties! Each wine comes with a write-up and music pairing suggestion for a well-rounded sipping and auditory experience.

Terroirizer Review | “Just placed an order . These wines are 🔥🔥” – @conroy_matt (See more reviews)

8. Tinto Amorio

American made

BIPOC Owned

Vegan

Best For | Orange & skin-contact wines
Standout Ethic | Gives back 5% to nonprofits serving local LA communities
Price | Starting at $192/biannually for 6 bottles

If a monthly wine subscription is too frequent for your needs, Tinto’s bi-annual skin contact club is who to turn to! Released in both winter/spring and summer/fall, you’ll receive either six or twelve bottles of pure, organic skin-contact or orange wines for a light or experimental palate. You decide! Produced in small batches by a group of family and friends locally in California, these natural wines are are made with grapes grown in biodynamic farms with each wine bottle waxed by hand by the founders. And to top it all off, 5% of each purchase supports local nonprofits, including food banks in LA and the OC.

Tinto Review | “These have zero flaws. ZERO. You get some of what you expect–extremely clean, drinkable, pleasant on the palate; and some unexpected–tasting notes, lightness, refreshing even!” -Alex G. (See all reviews)

9. Kind of Wild

Vegan

Family owned

1% for the planet

Plant trees

Best For | Organic globally crafted wines
Standout Ethic | Regenerative farming practices
Price | Starting at $120/month for 6 bottles

Kind of Wild is a favorite for organic and vegan globally curated wines that support sustainable farming practices. Founded by Jordan & Adam Sanger alongside a partnership with Katie Lee Biegel, Kind of Wild wines is committed to being part of the climate solution through their sustainability initiatives. Grapes are grown organically in regenerative soils and are free of chemical fertilizers and synthetics, allowing for healthy soil that thrives and remains nutrient dense. The company takes it a step further by planting trees and donating 1% of their profits to environmental partner initiatives.

Kind of Wild Review | “I ordered all of my holiday wine! We love it and it makes for great hostess gifts! Thank you” – @denelle_lynn (See more reviews)

The post 9 Natural Wine Subscriptions From Organic Vineyards appeared first on The Good Trade.

We’ve researched and tested numerous sheet sets — these are our favorites from sustainable brands for their long-lasting softness.

Whether you’re a cold sleeper who loves flannel or a hot sleeper who prefers crisp and cool percale, one thing’s certain: You still want your sheets to be soft. Buttery to the touch and comfortable all year round, soft sheets are a game-changer (especially if you like to, ahem, sleep in the nude).

What makes a bed sheet soft?

There are many factors that go into making a high quality bed sheet, and we find that natural fibers, fabric quality, weave, and thread count play the biggest roles in how soft your bed sheets will be. Natural materials like Egyptian, pima and supima cotton as well as bamboo when blended with premium cotton tend to create the softest sheets with a smooth and silky feel. Sheets made with these fabrics are of higher quality due to their long-staple fibers that produce a smoother and less scratchy feel than conventional cotton or other materials. 

When it comes to weave, the softest you’ll find will be either sateen weave, percale weave, or jersey knit. If you’re looking for that luxurious feel, sateen weave sheets will offer that, while percale softens over time and jersey knit offers a more casual comfy feel. Now the big question, how thread count impacts all this! We find that the optimal range for soft bed sheets that are still durable will be between 300 and 600 (anything higher than 600 won’t necessarily make your sheets feel any softer). And don’t forget, when it comes to maintaining the softness of your bed sheets, how you care for them makes all the difference! Using mild detergents will help keep your bed sheets in the best shape for long term use.    

Climbing into a bed with soft sheets can be the best part of our day. To help you out, we’ve rounded up the best sheet sets from sustainable brands and tested for long-lasting softness. Below you’ll find our top picks. Each brand has prioritized organic and natural materials, is committed to responsible manufacturing worldwide, and offers prices that balance quality and accessibility. 💤 Sweet dreams, sustainable snoozers.

Looking for a total bedroom makeover? Check out our mattress guide, and these organic comforters and duvet inserts.

Best Overall | Most Affordable | Most Colorful

1. Sijo

OEKO-TEX® certified

Natural materials

Small business

Budget friendly

Sheet Materials | Eucalyptus TENCEL
Price of Queen Sheets | Starting at $110

Sijo’s sheets are so cooling and silky; you know the feeling of having clean shaved legs and slipping into freshly laundered sheets? That’s what our Sijo sheets feel like every day. This brand is dedicated to “bedding made better,” and its airy eucalyptus line is simultaneously cooling, lightweight, and supremely soft. (Don’t take our word for it, see the 1500+ reviews that tout the same!) We also love that you can order a sheet set without a top sheet if you’re like us millennials who prefer to sleep without one. 😉 Using 100 percent TENCEL lyocell, these sheets are also anti-microbial, hypoallergenic, and free of dangerous chemicals.

Customer Review | “I never knew sheets could make such a big difference until my partner said we needed different sheets. We have ordered two sets and won’t go back to other sheets now. They are very cooling and soft and haven’t slept this good in a very long time. Highly recommend!”—Rachel M. (See all reviews)

2. Pact

Fair trade

GOTS certified

Budget friendly

Natural materials

Sheet Materials | Sateen cotton
Price of Queen Sheets | $190 

Pact is best known for its ethical apparel, but don’t sleep on its affordable bedding—or, actually, you should. With hundreds of five-star reviews, the Room Service Sateen Sheet Set is available in seven gorgeous colors and six sizes, so you can have that hotel bed experience wherever you are. The fabric is entirely GOTS certified organic cotton sateen—made responsibly in India—and it’s silky and snuggly without being too warm. These sheets are so impressive that they were named the Best Cotton Sheets of 2020 by the Sleep Foundation. 

Customer Review | “I don’t want to use any other sheets now. These are made of magical material that is soft and doesn’t get me overheated in the middle of the night, and doesn’t seem to wrinkle. I love the color too.” – Jenn A. (See all reviews)

Shop Pact

3. Parachute

OEKO-TEX® certified

Natural materials

Woman owned

Sheet Materials | Cotton percale
Price of Queen Sheets | $149–$229 

Prefer a crisp, cool sleep (that’s still impressively soft)? You’ll adore Parachute’s Percale Sheet Sets. Hot sleepers will be grateful for these long-staple Egyptian cotton sheets that are sewn to perfection in Portugal. The Percale collection includes sizes twin through cal king, with eight colors and your choice of with or without a top sheet. (Pssst—if you’re not sure the Percale Sheet Set is for you, you can also compare Parachute’s luxury fabrics including brushed cotton, sateen, linen, and organic cotton.) So soft, you’ll never go back to generic sheets again.

Customer Review | “I was underwhelmed at first, but decided to give them a try and see if they softened with [the] wash. It wasn’t until I put what used to be my favorite sheets on that I noticed the difference. I tossed and turned all night annoyed with the feel of the sheets I used to love and when I put the [P]arachute ones back on I really noticed how nice they were.”  – Rawan D. (See all reviews)

4. Brooklinen

OEKO-TEX® certified

Natural materials

Family owned

Sheet Materials | Cotton & Himalayan cashmere
Price of Queen Sheets | $309

Is there anything more luxurious to sleep in than cashmere? Well, maybe Brooklinen’s Heathered Cashmere sheets (made with cotton and Himalayan cashmere). Thoughtfully designed, these sheets are brushed for optimal softness, fully OEKO-TEX certified, and machine-washable (though you may want to keep a de-pilling device on hand; it is cashmere, after all). The core set includes a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and two pillowcases. Returns can be made up to 365 days, so you can sleep ‘n’ see if they’re the softest sheets for you.

Customer Review | “I love my linen sheets but sometimes I need more warmth, [but] flannel is too warm for me. These are the perfect medium. You must get these if you want to sleep in heavennnnn!”  – Fernanda H. (See all reviews)

5. Avocado

OEKO-TEX® certified

Natural materials

American made

GOTS certified

Made safe

FSC

Greenguard certified

Climate neutral

1% for the planet

Vegan

Sheet Materials | Organic Indian Suvin Cotton
Price of Queen Sheets | $229

You can’t get more luxurious than Avocado’s Organic Superfine Suvin Cotton sheets. Made with a whopping 1000-thread count per inch and rare extra-long staple fibers, these bed sheets are unlike anything you’ll find in the bedding sphere. GOTS-certified organic Indian Suvin Cotton is a heritage fiber, grown and hand harvested in Tamil Nadu, India and only reaps a few thousand bales each year. Once harvested by hand and woven, they are spun into these fine bed sheets, offering a precious sateen finish that gets more silky and soft the longer you use them.  It’s no wonder these sheets are the height of ‘eco-luxury’! 

Avocado Review | “I love these sheets. They get softer with every wash, but were soft to begin with. I use minimal soap and warm water and also use the organic dryer balls when I dry them. I’ve seen absolutely no pilling so far.” – Nancy B. (See all reviews)

6. Under The Canopy

OEKO-TEX® certified

GOTS certified

FSC

Budget friendly

Natural materials

Plastic/Pfas free

Sheet Materials | 100% long-staple organic cotton
Price of Queen Sheets | $118

For buttery-smooth breathable bed sheets that come in a multitude of colors, check out Under The Canopy. These OEKO-TEX certified organic cotton sheets come in a 300 thread count and feature a wrinkle-resistant and ultra-soft feel. With no harsh chemicals used in production and responsible manufacturing procedures taking place, Under The Canopy ensures their products are both ethical and sustainable for the long run. Each bed sheet also comes in a reusable cotton bag in efforts to reduce plastic packaging and so you can travel with them easily if need be! The beige shade is our favorite for a modern and classic feel. 

Under The Canopy Review | “I love these sheets so much I bought a second set so we can wash one set and have another on the bed right away. They’re the perfect combination of soft and crisp. Combined with our latex mattress and our wool comforter they make our bed the perfect natural haven.” – Susan (See all reviews)

7. ettitude

B corp

OEKO-TEX® certified

Climate neutral

1% for the planet

Budget friendly

Sheet Materials | Bamboo lyocell
Price of Queen Sheets | Starting at $139

Want silk without the potential harm to worms? ettitude’s bamboo lyocell sheets mimic that same buttery softness! With 3500+ reviews, six sizes, and a whopping 13 colorways (helloooo, almond, moss, and slate! 😍), there’s a high-quality set for your dream bedroom. Starting at $229 for a full queen set, ettitude offers free carbon-neutral shipping, and a percentage of proceeds from each sheet set supports environmental initiatives. Enjoy your softest and most sustainable night’s sleep.

Customer Review | “I just washed the whole set for the first time and wow…they’re softer than they were before I swear. Like it truly feels like a luxurious experience every time I go to bed. All my comfort lovers out there…splurge and get yourself some of this bedding!”  – Nena R. (See all reviews)

Shop Ettitude

8. Coyuchi

Fair trade

GOTS certified

Made safe

1% for the planet

Natural materials

Sheet Materials | Cotton
Price Range | $208

Not only are Coyuchi’s sheet sets endlessly soft and crisp (magically!), but they’re also sustainably made, saving up to 2000+ days of drinking water and nine miles worth of driving emissions. The Organic Crinkled Percale Sheets are another great option for warm sleepers, with just the right amount of wrinkle for that effortless “worn in” look. The organic cotton is grown in India, and every part of production is done ethically. If the retail price feels too out of reach, consider Coyuchi’s secondhand shop as well for discounted options.

Customer Review | “[These] were beyond worth it! Soft, great temperature control (seem to be warm or cool if needed), and stay put! Only downside is I don’t want to leave our bed in the morning!” – Alexandra A. (See all reviews)

9. Homebird

GOTS certified

Fair trade

Natural materials

Budget friendly

Sheet Materials | Cotton
Price of Queen Sheets | Starting at $138 CAD

Homebird is a Canadian brand we adore for its intentional ethos, cost-effective prices, and gorgeous colors. Started by Saloni and Gaurav Sangai—both of whom are originally from India—this work is deeply personal. Homebird exclusively works with Fair Trade Certified partners in India to ensure high quality, sustainable materials, and fair wages for all involved. Homebird ships across Canada and the US (with free shipping as well as a 45-night risk-free trial). For the ultimate in cozy, go for the sateen set, but if you prefer a cool and crisp set, we love the percale sheets!

Customer Review | “Really happy to support a small Canadian business! The pillowcases are just what I was looking for: as someone with a tactile sensory processing disorder (an autistic trait), finding pillowcases that are soft and crisp enough not to irritate my skin or overwhelm my senses, feels like a small miracle…A++.”  – Viki B. (See all reviews)

Shop Homebird

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Featured image by Brooklinen

The post 9 Softest Sheet Sets For 2023 appeared first on The Good Trade.

We’ve researched dozens of curly hair products — these are our favorite picks made with organic and beneficial ingredients for curly and textured hair.

IIf you were born with curly hair, then it’s possible you’ve been searching for the perfect leave-in conditioner, co-wash, or styling gel your whole life. Kinky, coily, and wavy hair textures are prone to dryness and damage, calling for extra care. Thankfully, many emerging natural hair care brands create hair formulas specific for curly girls—and you don’t even have to choose between volume or nourishment!

Why are organic ingredients important?

The ingredients in hair and scalp care products are critical to the overall health of our hair, and can also have numerous environmental benefits too. Organic hair care products contain no GMOs, pesticides or other harsh chemicals that can cause adverse health effects such as skin irritation or allergic reactions. Organic formulas are milder and gentler, which is extra beneficial if you have a sensitive scalp. 

In addition to health benefits, organic ingredients in hair products are often biodegradable and support organic agriculture as a whole, encouraging sustainable farming practices that are better for our planet. You’ll also find that organic ingredients are higher in nutrients and antioxidants which can keep your curls more nourished. As curly hair requires extra due diligence when it comes to washing, styling, and caring for it, organic ingredients in curly hair products ensure you’re only putting the best on your skin and hair for maximum nourishment and a healthy scalp and locks!

We’ve rounded up our favorite all-natural and organic hair care brands for curly hair textures. Though most of the brands listed carry products for all hair types, they are mostly known for their products catered toward curly and textured hair. Many brands are vegan and cruelty-free, too!

If you don’t see your favorite natural and organic curly hair brand listed, check out our guide to natural and organic hair care or feel free to give us a shout-out in the comments! For plastic-free options, check out our shampoo bar guide.

Best Overall | Most Affordable

1. Prose

Vegan

Cruelty free

B corp

Climate neutral

Best For | Customized curl cream
Featured Ingredients | Pequi and Argan oils, lilac extract & arginine
Price Range | $28 (subscribe for 15% off)

Prose knows that everyone’s different—that’s why the brand creates custom formulas to tackle your specific needs! The Custom Curl Cream is made of natural, sustainable ingredients like Pequi and Argan oils, though the exact formula of each batch is curated to your hair needs, determined by their custom hair quiz. 100 percent of the curl cream formulas are vegan and gluten-free, and can be made without silicone or fragrances, too. Clean, conscious beauty made just for your curls and coils.

Prose Review | “I have curly hair that I have straightened my whole life to the point I just thought I had ugly waves. The last few years I’ve been on a journey to rediscover my curls and go natural. It’s been challenging. I’ve tried all different products with some but relatively little success. Prose has brought my curls to life and made them healthy, shiny, and most importantly to me soft. No crunch and total ease to run my fingers through my hair! It’s only been a few weeks but I love my curls!! And, I only have to wash once a week now. ♥️” – Summer T (See all reviews)

2. Sienna Naturals

Vegan

Cruelty free

Woman owned

BIPOC Owned

Best For | Textured & treated hair
Featured Ingredients | Baobab, coconut, castor & blue tansy oils
Price Range | $18–$32

Salon-tested and scientifically formulated for textured hair, Sienna Naturals’ products do it all. They’re designed to soften, moisturize, and define curly, kinky, wavy, dry, and damaged hair while undoing the stress that can come with color, heat, and straightening treatments. And the company—which is co-owned by Issa Rae (!)—use always vegan, plant-based formulas with a proprietary blend of 18 active ingredients that hydrate, improve curl pattern, and reduce hair loss, damage and frizz.

Sienna Naturals Review  | “Best vegan line…love the natural ingredients and the way this product leaves your hair feeling! Oh, and the smell is amazing!“ – Jessica K. (See all reviews)

3. Ceremonia

Cruelty free

Vegan

Woman owned

BIPOC Owned

Recycled materials

1% for the planet

Best For | Scalp care
Featured Ingredients | Babassu, patauá, açai, avocado, and maracujá oils, pequi, cupuaçu butter & aloe vera
Price Range | $20–$27

Ceremonia is “clean hair care rooted in Latinx heritage.” Founder Babba Rivera grew up seeing a lack of accessible and effective products for Latinx hair. Now, her brand’s formulas are infused with the Latin American ingredients—like guava and babassu oil—and inspired by rituals she grew up with. Tackle frizz, damaged hair, or a dry scalp with these clean, vegan beauty favorites.

Ceremonia Reviews | “My curls have never been as defined and hydrated. I can’t recommend enough.” – Maria J. (See all reviews)

4. Shaz & Kiks

Vegan

Cruelty free

Family owned

BIPOC Owned

Best For | Clay hair cleanser
Featured Ingredients | Amla, fenugreek, tulsi, turmeric, neem, bhingaraj, moringa, sweet almond & sesame oil
Price Range | $30–$45

Started by two sisters, Shaz & Kiks is dedicated to holistic and nourishing self-care routines—starting with our hair. Formulated using natural or organic Indian Ayurvedic herbs, oils, and flowers, the shampoos are 90% derived from plants with safe (and vegan) natural derivatives making up the rest. With two texture options for the prewash and single formulations for cleanser and conditioner, Shaz & Kiks is perfect if you have a variety of hair textures in the family. (Psst—you can even subscribe and save 15 percent on your hair care routine).

Shaz and Kiks Review | “I’ve always had dry brittle hair but using the Prewash has made a tremendous difference. I can detangle my hair with so little effort now and my breakage has really decreased. I’m excited to continue using the product because I predict more positive effects.” – Lori B. (See all reviews)

5. Briogeo

Vegan

Cruelty free

FSC

Recycled materials

Woman owned

BIPOC Owned

Best For | Wavy, curly, & kinky hair textures
Featured Ingredients | Rice amino, avocado, quinoa, shea, chia, & flax
Price Range | $12–$124

Briogeo’s Curl Charisma is a 6-free haircare line with products that are 93 to 100 percent naturally derived, as well as sulfate-, silicone-, and paraben-free. Aimed at volumizing, de-frizzing, and nurturing naturally curly hair, this company ensures your luxurious waves and curls are in good hands. Briogeo is also extremely transparent about the ingredients, even including a full ingredient glossary on its website. The products are bottled in recycled packaging, too. For truly transparent curly care, be sure to check this line out!

Briogeo Review | “This conditioner is amazing! I have very thin 2a-2b hair and this is is the first conditioner that adds volume/definition without weighing it down.” – Grace (See all reviews)

6. Alaffia

Cruelty free

BIPOC Owned

Fair trade

Budget friendly

Best For | Kids
Featured Ingredients | Coconut oil, coconut water & shea butter
Price Range | $8–$15

Alaffia’s hair care products are affordable and abundant in simple and plant-based ingredients that make it perfect for everyday natural hair care. The Shea line is free of sulfates, parabens, and artificial colors or fragrances and contains nourishing shea butter and moisturizing coconut oil for luscious locks. We especially love the variety of kids shampoos, conditioners and detanglers, which are perfect for gentle daily scalp and hair care. Each Alaffia product is Fair Trade and handcrafted by women-led co-ops in West Africa.

Alaffia Review  | “Both kids suffer dry scalps. This stuff has completely changed the game. Highly recommend.” – Leslie F. (See all reviews)

7. Ethique

Cruelty free

Plastic/Pfas free

Vegan

Woman owned

Best For | Plastic-free & travel-friendly conditioner
Featured Ingredients | Cocoa seed butter & glycerine
Price Range | $10–$25

Ethique is changing the game with their plastic-free solid shampoo and conditioner bars for curly hair! Made without silicone and chock full of cocoa butter and glycerine for their moisturizing and detangling properties, this bar looks little yet packs a punch, without weighing down your curls! The conditioner bar even offers cleansing properties through the addition of castor oil, helping to dissolve dirt and excess oil. (Perfect for co-washing!) Simply slide the bar up and down your hair 5x and massage the product into your hair, leaving it in anywhere from 1-10 minutes depending on how much moisture you need. The best part–each bar replaces 5 bottles of 350mL conditioner so you’ll be saving money and reducing excess waste. Mind. Blowing. 

Ethique Review | “It’s a wonderful product. The bar lasts a very long time. (At least twice as long as my Professor Curl shampoo bar.) One doesn’t need to invest in expensive conditioners with chemicals. This gives curly hair all the extra love it needs. I dye my hair blonde, so I often leave it in for 10 minutes as a mask for extra moisture. It doesn’t weigh my hair down at all.” – Raquel S. (See all reviews)

8. Innersense

B corp

Climate neutral

1% for the planet

Cruelty free

Family owned

Recycled materials

Best For | Fine & medium curly hair
Featured Ingredients | Pumpkin seed oil, green tea leaf, avocado extract, mango extract, aloe vera, rice extract, tamanu oil & jojoba oil
Price Range | $9–$80

Founded by beauty specialists Joanne and Greg Starkman, Innersense hair care was made to bring organic ingredients and professional performance together for the betterment of our hair, health and the planet. And we agree, their products live up to the hype! Our editor loves the hydrating shampoo and conditioner, and raves about the sweet spirit leave in for her fine 3b curls. After use, your hair will feel moisturized and defined for days, with no crunchy feel. This certified B Corp contains absolutely no silicones, sulfates or questionable chemicals in their formulas , is 100% climate neutral, and gives back to over 20 nonprofits with every purchase. 

Innersense Review | “I have high porosity 4a curls and this leave in conditioner is EVERYTHING! It does a great job at refreshing my hair on old wash n go’s. I also love spritzing this in my hair before adding creams & gels. It does an excellent job at detangling. I’m so obsessed with Innersense products.” – Kayli B. (See all reviews)

9. EVOLVh

Recycled materials

Vegan

Cruelty free

Best For | Thick, coarse hair
Featured Ingredients | Shea butter, coconut oil, black cumin seed oil & rosemary leaf oil
Price Range | $8–$159

EVOLVh’s mission is to deliver science-backed hair care made with organic and natural ingredients. The brand’s Healthy Care Trio set is the perfect starter for thick, thirsty curls that are in need of some rejuvenation. The shampoo works to gently cleanse your curls without stripping them of their natural oils, while the conditioner works to revive strands through weightless hydration and helps promote softer hair with better shine and less breakage. Finishing it off with their leave-in conditioner will strengthen, smooth and protect your hair against the elements and UV damage. The result is healthy curls and a happy scalp! 

EVOLVh Review | “This definitely brings my waves to the next level! I can tell when I haven’t used this shampoo system as my waves are less lively and don’t last as long. I need to purchase a second set so I have one in both my upstairs and downstairs shower!” – Marcy S. (See all reviews)

Featured image is from Ceremonia

The post 9 Best Curly Hair Products Made With Organic Ingredients appeared first on The Good Trade.

We’ve researched and tested numerous vegan mattresses — these are our favorite brands made with organic and sustainable materials across a range of price points.

Where we catch our zzz’s is where we spend a third of our lives—so we recommend investing in the best of the best when it comes to mattresses. Most mattresses include petroleum-based foams, toxic flame retardants, pesticides, and other gases/chemicals that can be dangerous to our health, especially night after night. Instead, we can opt for vegan, all-natural mattresses that will keep us sleeping soundly and healthy—without harming people, planet, or animals.

Why consider a vegan mattress?

Vegan mattresses are a wonderful choice for their ethical and cruelty-free production. Traditional mattresses typically use animal by-products such as wool and silk, and opting to go vegan supports the humane treatment of animals by avoiding the use of these materials. Vegan mattresses can also be more eco-friendly and sustainable through the use of recycled materials and more natural alternatives like organic latex and plant-based foams. And for those with wool allergies, you’ll be pleased to know that vegan mattresses can avoid your triggers and are often completely hypoallergenic! 

We’ve reviewed dozens of the best organic mattress brands that offer a completely vegan mattress. None contain wool or any animal by-products, and they’re all made in the USA. Many of them are also GOTS and GOLS certified, ensuring that both organic and sustainable materials are used in the production of the mattress. We also love these brands for their excellent customer service, financing options, and sustainable materials.

Looking to invest more into your rest? (See what we did there! 😉)​​ Check out our eco-friendly and organic mattress guide! And don’t forget to top it off with some cozy organic bedding.

Best Overall | Most Affordable | Best Made In USA

1. Avocado Mattress

Vegan

Cruelty free

GOTS certified

Made safe

American made

FSC

Climate neutral

Greenguard certified

OEKO-TEX® certified

Natural materials

1% for the planet

Best For | Standard or pillowtop vegan mattresses
Materials | 100% GOLS organic certified latex, GOTS certified organic cotton
Features | 100-night sleep trial, 25-year warranty, free shipping & returns, handmade in the USA, financing options, gives back, vegan
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Price | $1,399–$3,199

Avocado mattresses are sustainably sourced, eco-conscious, handcrafted (and hand-tufted) in the USA. It’s made with 1,414 pocketed support coils, GOLS organic certified latex, and GOTS-certified organic cotton from Texas. With a 100-night sleep trial, free shipping & returns, a 25-year warranty, and monthly payment options, the brand’s customer service is unparalleled, as is the mattress quality. You can rest easy, knowing no wool or animal-based products were used in the making of your mattress. It’s even certified by Vegan Action (The Vegan Awareness Foundation) in Richmond, Virginia, and PETA-approved.

Avocado Mattress Review | “I love my Avocado mattress! Not only is it the most comfortable mattress I have ever slept on, it is also the most natural. It’s so nice to have a mattress that doesn’t smell like chemicals and is not made of harmful materials. This is truly a beautifully made, wonderfully comfortable mattress.” ––Donna L. (See all reviews)

2. Naturepedic

Vegan

Cruelty free

Natural materials

Greenguard certified

American made

Best For | Fully customizable options
Materials | Certified organic cotton, plant-based PLA, GOLS certified Latex
Features | 100-night trial, 25-year warranty, made in the USA, financing options
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Price | $2,998–$6,098

If you’re looking for a long-term, personalized investment, consider a mattress from Naturepedic. Constructed by Amish craftspeople in Ohio, the EOS mattress is made with GOTS-certified and GREENGUARD Gold Certified materials, including fair-trade-sourced latex, organic cotton, and plant-based PLA (contact the brand directly to get this instead of the wool batting!). The mattress is customizable for your plush/firm preferences (per left and right side on sizes queen and up!), and you can even add a topper for an extra-plush night’s sleep. While Naturepedic’s vegan mattress is the most expensive on our list, we believe it’s worth the long-term investment. Financing plans are also available.

Naturepedic Mattress Review | “Cushion firm is the perfect level for both of us. Even if we change our minds after 90 days, we can still order new layers and change the support or comfort of our mattress without having to replace the entire mattress. Love that!” ––Happy Mothering (blog)

3. PlushBeds

Vegan

Cruelty free

GOTS certified

Best For | USA-made mattress
Materials | 100% natural and organic Talalay and Dunlop latex, knitted 100% organic cotton cover
Features | Lifetime warranty, 100-night free returns & exchanges, GREENGUARD Gold Certified, made-to-order in the USA, eco fire barrier
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, split queen, king, split king, California king, split California king
Price | $2,799–$5,048

PlushBeds Natural Bliss vegan mattress offers a variety of sizes, thicknesses, and firmness options so that you can customize your sleep experience. Handcrafted-to-order in California, we love that these mattresses are wool-free and GREENGUARD Gold Certified. A certification earned by less than one percent on mattress brands—it’s the world’s most rigorous and comprehensive standards for low chemical emissions. The mattress also features PlushBeds’ proprietary Eco Fire Barrier—a plant-derived fiber ensuring the mattress is flame resistant without the use of harmful chemicals. PlushBeds offer a 100-day trial period, a lifetime warranty, free shipping & free return pickups, & 0% APR financing.

PlushBeds Mattress Review | “We had never slept on a latex mattress, but we did a lot of research and decided on this one by PlushBeds. Specifically the Natural Bliss because it is wool-free (I am very allergic) and has organic cotton covering. Coming from 18 years sleeping on a memory foam mattress, we thought the latex might take some getting used to. However, from night one, we have been very satisfied! Somehow it manages to be mildly “springy,” form-fitting, and supportive, yet easy on shoulder and hip pressure points… Highly recommend!” ––Linda G. (See all reviews)

*Use code GOODTRADE100 for an additional $100 off all PlushBeds mattresses.

4. Brentwood Home

Vegan

Cruelty free

Greenguard certified

Natural materials

American made

Best For | Charcoal-infused mattresses
Materials | Activated charcoal, eco-INSTITUT® 100% certified natural Dunlop latex, Certi-PUR-US® certified memory foam
Features | 1-year trial, 25-year warranty, free shipping & returns, made in the USA, financing options, gives back
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, California king
Price | $1,149–$2,398

For more than 30 years, Brentwood Home has been crafting mattresses and home goods out of Los Angeles. The Crystal Cove Mattress is perfect for those who want a mattress that reflects a mindful and well-balanced lifestyle. What do we mean? Well, this mattress is dual-sided: on one side is activated charcoal-infused plush memory foam, while the other is made with more supportive 100% natural Dunlop latex. And it’s vegan, too: only natural, non-toxic, GREENGUARD Gold Certified materials are used in this mattress. Handcrafted in Southern California.

Brentwood Home Mattress Review | “First, while not imperative to performance, I have to say the Crystal Cove mattress and pillows are beautiful. They look and feel luxurious. I hated to cover them with sheets! As for performance, we are very pleased. Unpacking was easy and the bed expanded quickly. No odors. We are using the plush side for now but are happy with it so far…not too hard, not too soft. Perfect for an adjustable base.“ – Ginger F. (See all reviews)

5. Nest Bedding

Vegan

Cruelty free

American made

Budget friendly

FSC

Fair trade

Best For | Affordable, cooling & breathable mattresses
Materials | Latex-free Energex™ Memory Foam
Features | Made in the USA, 365-night trial, free shipping, lifetime warranty, made-to-order
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king, split California king
Price | $578–$1,020

Keep your cool all night long with Nest’s vegan memory foam mattress. CertiPUR-US® certified and made in the USA, the latex-free foam is responsive and allows for airflow so you can get a restful nights sleep without overheating. Nest’s unique Energex™ Memory Foam accomplishes this dynamic feature through an infusion of minerals that helps to naturally pull heat away from the body, keeping you cool and comfy. If you’re a side sleeper, this is the mattress for you!

Nest Mattress Review  | “Very nice mattress! Was delivered exactly as stated. Been sleeping on it for a month and after a small adjustment period has been very comfortable. At first you notice the firmer layer under the top layer but get used to the feel over time. Never slept better! Does not sleep hot like normal memory foam.” – Ryan D. (See all reviews)

6. Nectar

Vegan

Cruelty free

American made

Budget friendly

Fair trade

GOTS certified

Best For | Affordable memory foam mattresses
Materials | Tencel, organic cotton, CertiPUR-US® certified memory foam
Features | 365-night trial, lifetime warranty, free shipping & returns
Product Range | Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, split king, California king
Price | $359–$1,098

Nectar makes vegan memory foam mattresses that are eco-friendly and affordable! Completely latex-free and CertiPUR-US® certified, this mattress is rigorously tested and re-certified each year to ensure their standards continues to be met or exceeded. Nectar mattresses are made without formaldehyde, mercury, lead, heavy metals, and flame retardants (to name a few). Their composition also naturally repels bed bugs and dust mites! Finished with a cooling and breathable cover made from sustainably-made Tencel and Fair Trade organic cotton, you’ll be taking every opportunity to climb into this bed!

Nectar Mattress Review | “My fiance’s back had been hurting for months in our old bed. After reading so many of Nectar’s positive reviews, we purchased the mattress and love it! We’ve had the mattress for a couple of months and he hasn’t had one night of pain! Great night sleep!” -Lara R. (See all reviews)

The post 6 Best Vegan Mattresses For A Plant-Based Bed In 2023 appeared first on The Good Trade.