2023 Low-Tox Holiday Gift Guides: Kids, Women and Men !
Its that time of the year! Here are some of my favorite gift ideas for both kids and adults (under $50 and $50 +) ! All items are 3 Little Plums/ Aida approved! Hoping this inspires and helps take some of the stress off from holiday shopping!
This year I included recommended ages, reason why I like it and the option to shop/support small shops or shop on Amazon for those who prefer
Please note: some of these links are affiliate links which means that at no cost to you you can support me as a get a tiny percent of the sale. Many others are from small shops I love- because I also like to shop and support small businesses even if they dont have affiliate programs! Bottom line: these are all items I truly love and would want gifted to me/ my kids/ my husband etc (or that we already have)
In this Post:
Kids Holiday gifts Under $50
Kids Holiday gifts Over $50
Women’s Holiday gifts Under $50
Women’s Holiday gifts Over $50
Men’s Holiday Gift Guide
KIDS HOLIDAY GUIDE: UNDER $50
1. Wooden tools set: Cherry & Maple Wooden Play Hammer/Mallet, $7.50
Cherry & Maple Wooden Play Screwdriver, $5.00
Cherry Wood Play Saw, $12.99
2. Eeboo Create - A -Story Cards $11.99 Available at Bella Luna Toys and Amazon
Spark creativity in kids and level up your own story telling skills with these beautifully illustrated cards that encourage players to make up their own stories based on the images on the cards dealt.
Ages: An ideal game for pre-readers as well as older kids. 3+
Why I love it: Spark creativity in kids, great for travel, bedtime or quiet time
3. Holztiger Little wooden Fox/ wooden lion/ wooden elephant/ all animal wooden Toy Figures, From $12
Ages: 18 months on
Why I like it: Made with solid wood these last forever and are great for boys and girls of all ages. We have a couple of them that my older boys played with and that baby girl has now!
4. Imperfect Wood Blocks large- dozen for $12 Available at Smiling Tree Toys
We have both these and the smaller version of these blocks and love them. They are pretty perfect for me (colors are jus not all the same but I like the variety in wood!) and the price can’t be beat.
Ages: 18 months on
Why I love them: These blocks will last for years as there are so many ways kids can play with them. No finish, no paint just solid maple hardwood!
5. Curious Critter Butterfly Garden Kit, $12 Available on Maisonette
One of the coolest things for a child to see and lear about is the metamorphosis of the caterpillar into a butterfly. This kit includes a variety of non-invasive wildflower seeds to attract butterflies, a butterfly made out of paper pulp, a wooden garden marker, and colored pencils. After coloring in the compostable butterfly, kids can attach it to the wooden garden marker to welcome the butterflies back to their garden. Yes, they will eventually learn about this at school but there is nothing quite like seeing it in front of your own eyes!
Ages: 4+
Why I like it: get kids loving nature from an early day means they will care about it as they grow up and will be more likely to take care of it
6. Wooden Breakfast Pretend Play Kitchen Food Playset , $22 Available on Amazon
Ages: 18 months +
Why I like it: I am a big fan of Plan Toys, their toys are made sustainably from Rubberwood and always use Non-Toxic Paints and Dyes. This is especially important when its a toy that might be placed in a child’s mouth
7. NANCHEN Bella Baby - Organic Terry Doll, $25 Available at Bella Luna Toys
These organic dolls are safe for babies and young toddlers: the perfect size for little hands.
Ages: 18 months on
Why I like them: handmade in Germany, each Bella Baby is made with organic cotton terry cloth and filled with pure Bioland wool, making them safe for teething babies.
8. Wooden Flower Festival - Bracelet Making Kit - Available at Oak & Ever
Ages: 3-10
Why I like it: No plastic here! All wooden beads feature nature and flowers. Makes about 10 bracelet
( not pictured) Far Out Bubbles - Giant Bubble Kit $25 Available at Bella Luna Toys
Bubble wands use the power of a natural breeze to make giant bubbles!
Ages: 5 years on (but younger kids will love to watch these giant bubbles and pop them)
Why I like it: Another great activity that keeps kids active and outdoors. Great for toddlers (to watch and play with) and older children (to do themselves). Also great activity for siblings: older siblings can make bubbles and younger ones pop
9. Guardian Angel Mouse in a Suitcase Maileg $26 Available at Bella Luna Toys
Ages: 2 +
Why I like it: There is something so sweet about all Maileg mice toys. You can slowly collect them all and stimulate creative play in young children. Exterior is made of natural materials like cotton and linen (interior is recycled polyester and PE pellets)
10. Dancing Alligator Wooden Pull Toy, $30 Available at Bella Luna Toys
I am a big fan of simple pull toys like these because all three of my kids have loved them and played with them a lot! We currently have two that I got 12 years ago for my oldest son!
Ages: walking toddler on
Why I like it: lasts for multiple kids, PlanToys are made from natural, chemical-free rubber wood and finished with water-based, safety-tested colors.
11. NEW Dinkum Dogs- Vet Set $35 Available at Coucou Boston
Ages: 18 months +
Why I like it: You can use with the Olli Ella dogs but you can also use with any stuffy you have at home. Again, boost independent play and imagination. Great for boys and girls
12. Maileg Twin Winter Mice in a Paper House, $36 Available at Bella Luna Toys
Ages: 2 +
Why I like it: There is something so sweet about all Maileg mice toys. You can slowly collect them all and stimulate creative play in young children. Exterior is made of natural materials like cotton and linen (interior is recycled polyester and PE pellets)
13.Bento Box Sushi Set $37.99 Available on Amazon
Age: 2+
Why I like it: Unlike most play sushi sets that are made with polyester this one is made of wool
14. Silk Fairy Wings, $38 Available at Bella Luna Toys
Ages: 18 months- 7
Why I like it: I love play silks for open ended play but these fairy wings are really pretty and lightweight, meaning even young kids can wear them comfortably . Also love the green one
15. Karuba Board Game, $39.00 Available at Bella Luna Toys and Amazon
Ages: 7+
Why I like it: This is one of the simplest and funnest board games that both younger kids (my son started playing at age 7) and parents/ adults can enjoy. Available at Bella Luna Toys
16. Doll Nursing/Feeding Set, $39.95 Available on Maisonette
Ages: 2+
Why I like it: Stimulate imaginary play and develop empathy with this 8-piece doll feeding set that includes a bib, dummy, nappy, plate, spoon, baby food, bottle, and bag. Made from a combination of natural cotton and beautiful exposed solid wood.
17. Wooden Xylophone and ball drop $39.99 Available at Coco Village
Ages: 1 +
Why I like it: Younger kids can play with the ball drop or start developing coordination as they play music on the xylophone. Made of pinewood
18. Organic stuffed bear, $42 Available at Oak & Ever
Ages: birth onwards
Why I like it: Made in Germany with organically grown cotton and lambswool (they also have a cat, fox & bunny available as well as larger sized ducks) I feel super comfortable with this guy snuggling up to any kiddo!
19. TheBig Dig Sandbox Digger , $42.99 (shop on Amazon or Shop at Target
Ages: 3 + (supports up to 70 lbs)
Why I like it: Perfect for outdoor play in a sandbox, yard or beach. Great to develop hand eye coordination and keep kids outdoors
18. Djeco music box $43 available at Maissonette
Ages: 3+
Why I like it: Little girls can save their prized possessions (jewelry, stones, art etc) in these precious music boxes. Djeco toys are made to both EU and US safety standards. Other designs are available for boys and girls too!
19. Bocce Ball Set from $45
Indoor-Outdoor Bocce Ball crochet Set, $45 : great for traveling and great for the entire family Ages: ages 8 and up
Outdoor Bocce Ball Set $49.99, Available on Amazon
Ages: 8 and up
Why I like it: I love that this set is made from solid wood (please note , this is not considered a toy for kids under 12 so varnish and paint might not be safe for kids to place in their mouth. It is totally safe to play with but not meant for toddler toys!)
KIDS HOLIDAY GUIDE: OVER $50
1. Eco Baby dolls, Baby Cora $65
We have one of these truly non-toxic dolls and its a favorite of my daughters.
Ages: 1 +
Why I love it: The EcoBaby Dolls Baby Cora is an adorable, bright-eyed babydoll made from 100% natural, biodegradable rubber.. the most natural alternative to all other hard dolls that are made with PVC.
2. Swurfer Tree Swing, from $81 Available at Bella Luna Toys and Amazon
Ages:
Why I like it: Most parents are looking for excuses to get our kids outdoors… look no further than this …. its a swing reinvented and made cool for older kids. Great for playdates too
100% Hardrock Maple wood with UV and water-resistant finish (PFAS FREE) plastic. Adults can swing too!
3. Wooden Waldorf Rocker Board, From $98 Available on Bella Luna Toys and Amazon
Ages: 18 months +
Why I like it: I got this for my sons when they were already a bit older, about 5 and 8. The 5 year old played with it for a year or two. Now, to my delight, my daughter absolutely loves it. From about 18 months on it has been super fun to see the different uses she has for it: as a slide for herself, her stuffed animals, cars and balls, as a bridge to walk then jump out off, as a rocker and “bed” and as part of a climbing toy…. the true meaning of open ended toy.
4. Wonder and Wise Baby Walker $109 Available at Maisonette
Age: under 1- 3
Why I like it: What i love about this is that its two toys in one: push toy and has a bunch of activities that grow with your baby…. kids discover new parts as they are developing.
5. Micro Kickboard - Mini 3in1 Deluxe 3-Stage Ride-on Micro Scooter Toddler Toy, $118 Available on Amazon
Ages: 12 months +
Why I like it: Scooters are just the best for all kids. Makes going on family walks easier, you can travel with them when kids are a bit older and another great way to get kids moving outdoors. My oldest son rode his on the streets of NYC when we lived there from 18 months on and then in a more suburban neighborhood in Los Angeles.
6. Solid Wood Doll/Fairy houses , From $120
6a.Palumba Dollhouse $350
6b. Fairy house $120 Available at Bella Luna Toys
6c. Plan Toy dollhouse, $200 Available at Bella Luna Toys
Age: 3+
Why I like them: most doll/ fairy houses are made with mdf and/or plywood- meaning small amounts of formaldehyde will off gas. These are more pricey but def heirloom quality and will give off zero toxins…. something especially important if the dollhouse will be placed inside a bedroom. The plan toy one is made with chemical-free rubberwood, formaldehyde-free glue, organic pigments and water-based dyes.
7. Earthtiles Colors - 100 Piece Set $175 Available from Amazon and wood colored available at Maisonette
Age: 3+
Why I like it: Magnatiles were played with at my house for many many years….. at least 6 or more. There are hundreds of ways kids can play with these. I love this wooden version since its just more sustainable that plastic
8. FAGUS Wooden Toy Garbage Truck $183 Available at Bella Luna Toys
Ages: 18 months on If you have a little boy (or girl) who loves trucks this one will make her holiday! Likely to play with it everyday !
Why I like it: made from beech wood with real rubber wheels. Made in Germany. Will be played with for years
9. Poppy’s Toys Doll Pram, $199: Available on Maisonnette
Ages: 1 + (walking toddler onwards) This is/ was a splurge but one I do not regret. My daughter uses it daily and I love seeing it every day!
Why I like it: non- toxic, rattan. Stunning whimsical design. Played with for multiple years.
10. 3 in 1 Tricycle and Balance Bike, from $279 Available at Bella Luna toys and Amazon
We had a similar one and both my older boys used and loved. It is said that kids that use balance bikes are able to learn how to ride their bikes faster without the need to use balance wheels
Why I love it: 3 in 1 means you extend the life of this toy.
Love the sustainable design too.
11.. CLASSIC WOODEN PLAYKITCHEN, $399 Available at Bella Luna toys
We have a similar one to this one.
Age: 18 months +
Why I like it: Made of solid wood. These play kitchens are played with for years to come by both girls and boys- I like that its not huge since I don’t have that much space for it!
12. Indoor Playground set, From $479 depending on combo choose Available at Bella Luna toys
I prefer outdoor play but I also lived in NYC with a toddler and preschooler and know that, while kids can and should play outdoors all year round (with appropriate clothing and gear of course) rain , sun, snow having an indoor play space is a Godsend sometimes! If you have the space something like this is ideal.
Why I love it: Gets kids moving, climbing, crawling, sliding, balancing, jumping etc. Open ended play, good for multiple ages (from 2-9!) and both boys and girls. made of FSC Certified Baltic Birch Wood and Stainless Steel fasteners.
13. Brown Sugar Settee -$695 Available at Rugs by Roo, use code “ PLUM15” at checkout for 15% off
Age: 1-10
Why I like it: I often get asked about “nugget-style” play couches but most out there have flame retardants and pfas added…. Wigimama’s version is quite a bit cleaner. No FR nor pfas. Yes, its recycled PET bottles but Oeko Tex tests for BPA which makes me feel better about it. Endless hours of fun and creativity await!
14. Mud Kitchen $630
Age: 18 months -10 years
Why I like it: encourages to get kids dirty and their imaginations running- mud kitchens are yet another way to encourage outdoor time playing with nature. I love that this kitchen is plastic free - made of the most sustainable and non-toxic materials - wood and stainless steel. For weather proofing they do recommend adding a weatherproofing stain on your own.
More affordable mud kitchen plastic components and sink is not a working sink, $250
ADULTS
Custom Silhouette portrait, $14
Why I like it: Sometimes we wish we could freeze time, but we cant… these custom beautiful silhouette portraits are a way to kind of freeze time and keep that cute baby/toddler/ little kid profile near you for always. Great price too!
2. Young Forever Book, $14.95
Why I like it: For the health centered person in your life Dr Hyman’s Young Forever is one of the best books out there….. because the earlier we start taking care of our health the longer and more importantly, in better shape we will be to enjoy our later years. In a nutshell it basically teaches you how to live better for longer This is a perfect gift for anyone but especially people in their 40-60’s
3. Strawberry Pad, $18
Why I like it: This print makes me smile. Plus, whether its for a mom, a friend, a teacher, a hostess gift, pretty notepads always make everyone smile and are super useful!
4. Eat Your Flowers A Cookbook $25.99
Why I like it: If you enjoy cooking and baking, this takes it to a whole other (gorgeous) level. Delicious recipes taken to knew heights with edible flower decor that we can all make at home. Its also just a pretty book to look at.
5. The James Beani by Christy Dawn, $26
Why I like it: unisex, these beanies are made of yarn scraps that would have been thrown out . So cute on you AND good for the planet
6. DRY BRUSH duo, $30
Why I like it: One of the easiest and most cost effectively to help your own body detoxify through lymphatic drainage is to dry brush daily. Its simple, feels good and also increased circulation, smooth + exfoliated skin and improved appearance of the skin.
7. Compostable Iphone CASE from $36
A biodegradable phone case..... a small way to reduce plastic pollution.... and protect your phone. They are Made from flax shive and a plant based biopolymer and most of their designs are super cute.... love the option to personalize
8. Primally Pure 6oz Clean burn Candle, $44
Why I like it: Blend of beeswax + coconut wax produces negative ions that purify and detoxify the air.
ECO wicks are a coreless, cotton flat braid wick with paper filament throughout, providing increased rigidity and strength. Their self-trimming and clean burning characteristics minimize mushrooming, soot, and smoke. Organic essential oil blend of lavender and peppermint infuse the atmosphere with calming and cleansing benefits. AKA: a clean candle that smells great
9. OSEA Undaria Body Mini Heroes Set $48
Use discount code: AIDASPICKS10 for 10% off
Why I like it: For harsh winter months these minis are great for trying out Osea’s rich moisturizing body oils and cream. Great ingredients
10. Organic Cotton Classic Tee $48 and men’s tee
Why I like it: Everyone needs that perfect white tee.. and this one fits really nice AND is organic and made in the US. Also comes in other colors!
USE CODE: “ HOLIDAY” for 10% off through 1/8/24
What I love about it: The only thing I dread about traveling are the pillows. Even when I stay at the best hotels I usually just don’t sleep great because of the pillows. I love my Avocado natural latex pillow at home so feel like having a smaller travel version would be amazing- especially for picky sleepers and/or avid travelers like me! GOTS-certified organic kapok fiber and GOLS-certified organic latex
2. WEAR KENT $65
AIDASPICKS for 15% off
Why I like it. Beyond just organic , these pieces are designed to last but when their end of life comes around , pop in a compost and they will return back to nature as a resource, rather than end up in landfill. No compost? No problem! Join our Compost Club here and we'll compost for you.
3. Lunya Women's Washable Silk Pillowcase $78
Why I like it: cheaper and healthier than Botox- sleeping on a silk pillowcase is supposed to help us avoid wrinkles !
4. OSEA $98
Discount code: AIDASPICKS10 (
WHy I like it: These are my go to's when its really dry out and my body needs to feel pampered. Safe ingredients I love
5. Lunya Organic Pima wide pants $118
Why I like it: Wear it around the house or out… these are super comfy and organic cotton . Oprah approved too (on her Favorite things list! LOL)
6. Organic Yoga Mat, $159
USE CODE: “ HOLIDAY” for 10% off through 1/8/24
one of the world’s only GOTS-certified organic yoga mats. Featuring a textured, 5 mm-thick GOTS certified organic cotton top cushion and a GOLS-certified organic Dunlop latex base for grip
7. Organic Cotton Robe $178
Why I like it: I wsa giifted this for mothers day this year and I had not realized until owning it how much I NEEDED IT in my life! It is just SO cozy and the perfect thickness not too hot nor too thin.
8. Washable Silk tee and short PK, $198
Why I like it: I have this in blue and its my favorite pj. natural materials, soft on skin and feels like a tee shirt and boxer… but looks so much cuter!
9. LUMEBOX red light therapy portable device $300
Why I like it: I use my Lumebox for so much. Anti aging, headaches, sore throats, muscle pain, back pain, allergic reactions, son’s fractured finger, other son’s occasional acne, immune boosting, when I am exhausted, when I got Covid and so so much!
10. Aixiome Bedding From $249 (get 25% off for 2023 Black Friday Sale by clicking here
Why I like it: Recently I began digging deeper into dyes used in fabrics and realizing that beyond buying organic, choosing items that are not dyed or that use natural dyes without the need for chemical mordants is actually ideal. Sleeping on bed sheets that do not contain toxins like formaldehyde, petrochemicals, ado dyes, disperse dyes, plastics, quinoline dyes…. all things that can accumulate and lead to allergic reactions and more … makes sense to me. Our bodies detoxify while we sleep and sleeping in a truly non-toxic environment is important. Are these expensive? Yes….. but I also don’t believe you need 5 pairs of bed sheets. I rather have one or two that are better quality . Is this the #1 switch to make in the bedroom? No- I would start with the mattress, but our skin is in contact with our bedsheets for multiple hours a day and yes we can absorb toxins through our skin. Finally I love that their indigo dye has been prooven to not only be non toxic but naturally antibacterial and shown to help with sensitive excess prone skin
11. PFAS free Air Fryer, $301
Why I like it: one of the few air fryers available right now that seem to be PFAS free (their chemical disclosure which would require disclosing the use of any PFAS does not make any mention of these).
12. 5-Piece stainless steel Delivery Set , $ 529.00 USD
Why I like it: This high quality made in the US stainless steel set plus add a cast iron pan and glass pyrex and thats all you need to create a low tox kitchen for the next 20-30 years ! Alternately you can buy pieces individually at a lower cost of course!
13. Breville Espresso Machine, $599
Why I like it: It makes me a better person. LOL But seriously if you or someone you love is a espresso lover this machine makes the best espresso ever….. pricey? A bit, but if you are buying daily cappuccinos you will make up the cost pretty quickly if you start making them at home… and trust me they taste much better with this machine than in your neighborhood cafe!
14. IQ Air air Filter
Why I love it. If you are ready to take low tax living to the next level this air purifier will take you there. 12 lbs of carbon mean it is a beast at filtering VOCs, formaldehyde and PM 2.5 (from car pollution and/or smoke). This model is made for the chemically sensitive , which means its the top/best model available… there are other models that have less carbon and are great too. I purchased this one after a particularly bad wildfire season and am so grateful I did…. wildfire season is almost year round now a days where we live and was also grateful when I moved into a newly built house that had high levels of formaldehyde!
MEN’S LOW- TOX HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Why I like them: Warm and soft these are a great practical gift. My older son and husband love them
2. Compostable Iphone CASE from $36
A biodegradable phone case..... a small way to reduce plastic pollution.... and protect your phone. They are Made from flax shive and a plant based biopolymer and most of their designs are super cute.... love the option to personalize
3. Organic cotton performance tshirt $31
Why I like it: 99% of performance tshirts are made with polyester. This is made with extra-soft certified organic cotton and natural organic dyes
4. Organic ultimate lounge pant $40
Why I like them: These are the ultimate lounge pant. Made with 100% chemical-free, GOTS-certified organic cotton fabric, together with an elastic-free 100% cotton braided drawstring, our lounge pants provide warmth, ease of movement, and chafe-free comfort perfect for men with allergies and sensitive skin.
5. Organic henley $55
Why I like it: its hard to find stylish men’s clothing that is also organic… These are a great option to start that transition to healthier fabrics
6. Low tox personal care starter kit $56
(shop under Men in the link to make your own bundle)
Use discount code: 3LITTLEPLUMS25
Why I like it: these three items are essentials for most men and a good intro into low tox personal care. Mojito Beard Oil, charcoal deodorant and Everything Spray have low tox ingredients and perform as well or better than their conventional counterparts.
7. Avocado Mini pillow $64
What I love about it: The only thing I dread about traveling are the pillows. Even when I stay at the best hotels I usually just don’t sleep great because of the pillows. I love my Avocado natural latex pillow at home so feel like having a smaller travel version would be amazing- especially for picky sleepers and/or avid travelers like me! GOTS-certified organic kapok fiber and GOLS-certified organic latex
8. Organic Fleece Sweatpants, $138
Why I like them: most warm sweats are made of polyester. These pure certified organic cotton… also it's designed with an internal drawcord so you can customize your perfect relaxed fit.
9. Aixiome Bedding From $249
Why I like it: Recently I began digging deeper into dyes used in fabrics and realizing that beyond buying organic, choosing items that are not dyed or that use natural dyes without the need for chemical mordants is actually ideal. Sleeping on bed sheets that do not contain toxins like formaldehyde, petrochemicals, ado dyes, disperse dyes, plastics, quinoline dyes…. all things that can accumulate and lead to allergic reactions and more … makes sense to me. Our bodies detoxify while we sleep and sleeping in a truly non-toxic environment is important. Are these expensive? Yes….. but I also don’t believe you need 5 pairs of bed sheets. I rather have one or two that are better quality . Is this the #1 switch to make in the bedroom? No- I would start with the mattress, but our skin is in contact with our bedsheets for multiple hours a day and yes we can absorb toxins through our skin. Finally I love that their indigo dye has been prooven to not only be non toxic but naturally antibacterial and shown to help with sensitive excess prone skin
10. Wool Sleeping bag, customizable
Use code: BF20 for 20% off until 11/27/2023
Why I like it: for the camper, handmade, all-natural wool sleeping bag. Regulates temperature unlike any other material to keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Wicks away body moisture for sweat–free nights. Diminishes body odor.
Completely chemical-free, with no off-gassing and zero VOCs. Hypoallergenic, suitable for people with chemical sensitivities, including MCS. Naturally dust mite and mildew resistant, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial and flame-resistant.
Shell: 100% Natural Mulberry Silk
Lining: 100% Natural Mulberry Silk
Filling: 100% Wool (Oeko-tex certified)
Machine washable: Yes
VOC, HAP, synthetics, chemical-free