How to Have a Sustainable Christmas with Young Children: Practical Tips for Eco-Friendly Parenting

Let’s be honest, “How to Have a Sustainable Christmas with Young Children” isn’t the sort of title that makes you want to break out the mince pies and fairy lights. But if you’re here, chances are this is already on your mind and you’re already juggling the holiday chaos: gift lists, decorations, endless meals, and the pressure to create magical memories for your little ones. And now, someone’s suggesting you throw sustainability into the mix?!

Here’s the thing: making small, eco-friendly changes doesn’t have to feel like another to-do. In fact, it can simplify things while giving you that glow of knowing you’re doing something good for the planet—and showing your children how thoughtful choices make a difference. Plus, you’re not alone. Families everywhere are embracing sustainable traditions, proving that a Christmas that’s kind to the Earth can still be filled with wonder.

Ready to join them? Let’s dive into some eco-friendly Christmas tips for parents that are practical, meaningful, and—dare we say—actually enjoyable.

Why sustainability matters at Christmas

Between endless wrapping paper, plastic toys, and uneaten leftovers, Christmas can feel less about goodwill and more about waste. It’s no wonder busy parents feel overwhelmed. But sustainability doesn’t mean adding pressure; it means rethinking traditions that are good for the planet and work for your family. We totally get the juggling act of modern parenthood. That’s why our commitment to eco-friendly parenting is about supporting families like yours in making choices you can feel proud of—not perfect, just better.

Practical tips for a sustainable Christmas with children

A low-waste Christmas for kids doesn’t have to be complicated. These ideas will help you keep the holiday magic alive while reducing your environmental footprint.

Choose reusable over disposable

• Next-gen nappies: A practical, sustainable choice even during the festive season. Explore our reusable nappies here. Nappy bundles are also a great gift for parents-to-be or check out our gift cards which can help towards some sustainable essentials throughout the year ahead.

• Eco-friendly gift wrap: Try fabric wraps, reusable bags, or even the paper your kids’ drawings are on (Grandparents love that one!).
• DIY crafts: Make it a family tradition to create handmade cards, crackers or decorations, giving your kids a fun and creative role in the celebrations.

Sustainable gift-giving

• Happy Thrift-mas: Scouring marketplaces, vintage stores, or local selling groups for just the right item can turn gift-giving into a memorable adventure. New research from Vinted and Retail Economics estimates that £2 billion will be spent on second-hand gifts this Christmas. The time and thought you invest will make the gift even more meaningful for the recipient—and the thrill of finding a hidden gem can be seriously satisfying.

• Share experiences: Think tickets to a family attraction, lessons for a new skill, or even a promise to try something you’ve always talked about. Maybe it’s rock climbing, a pottery class, or simply saving up for that dream family getaway. Many couples now skip gifts for each other in favour of boosting their holiday savings pot—it’s the ultimate long-term win!

Eco-friendly wrapping ideas

• Think outside the box: If you’ve bought one of our bigger bundles, you’ll notice that the paper bags that your nappies came in double up as pretty snazzy gift wrap.
• Get creative: Wrap gifts in leftover fabric, scarves, or a cute tea towel that doubles as part of the present. Not only are these options reusable, but they add a personal, creative touch to your gifts. Maybe even screen print your own fabric to make it even more personal!

 Sustainable decorations

• DIY with nature: Forage for branches, pinecones, and holly to create stunning wreaths, garlands, or table centrepieces.
• Paper crafts: Origami decorations are simple, stylish, and endlessly customisable—plus, they pack flat for easy storage. Look for guidance on YouTube or even head to a local workshop run by an origami expert such as these from Origami Est.
• String lights responsibly: Choose LED lights to save energy and set timers to minimise waste.

Low-waste meals and snacks

• Plan ahead: Batch cooking in December means you’ll have quick, homemade meals ready during the busy days.
• Simplify the feast: Use meal plans like Taming Twins to reduce food waste and save time.
• Get creative with leftovers: Make it a family challenge to come up with fun recipes from leftover turkey or vegetables.

Creating new family traditions

Sustainability can be at the heart of new traditions that can be passed on for generations to come. Think about your favourite memories from childhood – it probably doesn’t include gifts or shopping!

• Craft together: Turn everyday items into keepsakes or decorations your kids will be proud of.
• Bake treats: From gingerbread houses to star-shaped biscuits, baking is a deliciously fun way to spend time together.
• Explore the outdoors: Take a winter walk to forage for natural materials or simply enjoy some fresh air together.

For these adventures, our wet bags are perfect for keeping personal items dry or taking home used reusable wipes. And speaking of wipes, our Revolutionary reusable wipes are a game-changer for cleaning up sticky hands and faces at home or on the go.

Ready for a greener Christmas?

So there we have it. Sustainability at Christmas isn’t about perfection – as with all other times of the year, it’s about progress. By making a few thoughtful changes, you can reduce waste, save money, and create a festive season that reflects the values you want to pass on to your children.

We’re here to support you with products and tips that make eco-friendly parenting easier and more accessible. Ready to take the next step? Explore our blog on minimising single-use plastics or browse our sustainable product range to get started.

This Christmas, celebrate the joy of knowing you’re making choices that matter—for your family and the planet.