Black Friday is just behind the corner and major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Costco are rolling out insane deals on anything from kitchenware to appliances and electronics.
Yet all this shopping fever is causing mixed feelings for many sustainably-minded shoppers.
You can choose to boycott the event altogether, expressing your discontent with overproduction and senseless spending.
OR, you may see deep discounts as an opportunity to buy into sustainable Black Friday Deals and get earth-friendly products that are otherwise out of your reach.
This way, you’re supporting ethical companies, helping them offer more sustainable products in the future.
Is Black Friday Environmentally Sustainable?
Those shopping rampage scenes that go viral every Black Friday have little to do with a sustainable way of life.
The allure of “lowest ever” discounts sends many shoppers into a buying frenzy, so they often purchase many things they don’t need.
Now, let’s make this one clear. Under no circumstances do we support this kind of mindless shopping.
A GreenCitizen version of Black Friday is that we should take advantage of low prices and look for eco-friendly products that could all help us live a sustainable life.
Now, making a product sustainable often means taking a few extra steps in the whole sourcing, manufacturing, or logistics process. This is why earth-safe or ethical products often cost more than run-of-the-mill products in the same category.
Unfortunately, this is also the reason why many people can’t afford sustainable products, even if they wanted to.
This is when Black Friday kicks in.
In two weeks’ time, you'll have the opportunity to really make a difference by targeting those Black Friday Deals that come from ethical companies and brands. We also endorse deals that include products that let us use less electricity, leave less waste, or are made from recyclable or earth-safe materials.
However, even if you’re shopping sustainably, it’s important to consider whether you need any of the items in your basket.
Buying nothing is always cheaper, less wasteful, and more ethical.
On the other hand, there are discounted items that help us live sustainably. One way or another, we should weigh every shopping decision carefully.
After all, the holiday season doesn’t end with Black Friday — there'll be plenty of discounts in the days before us.
When Are Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2023?
This year (2023), Black Friday is on November 24, but we all know that many Black Friday online deals become available even sooner than the actual event.
For many high-demand items, you may see price drops at top retailers starting the Monday before Black Friday and continuing through Cyber Monday on November 27.
Still, if you blow your chance to get sustainable Black Friday deals, don’t panic — there are more sale days in coming up:
- Small Business Saturday — November 25
- Super Saturday — December 23
- Boxing Day — December 26
14 Best Early Black Friday Deals (Only Eco-Friendly Products)
1. QiSa Solar Power Bank
Unfortunately, freak weather situations are getting more and more common. A solar power bank ensures you won’t be caught unaware next time there’s extreme weather.
This solar charger has four high-conversion charging panels, which are charged as long as you keep them in sunlight. The solar power is 12W, and the current input is 1.16A.
You can charge this power bank via a wireless charging function and two USB outputs and use it to charge up to three devices simultaneously.
Finally, this is a great addition to your outdoor adventures. It’s waterproof, dust-proof, and drop-proof, so it’ll work in the most extreme conditions.
2. EcoFlow 110W Portable Solar Panel
This foldable solar panel is designed to go with you anywhere and be charged everywhere there’s sunlight. It’s a great choice for charging your solar generator fast. You can plug it into most power stations with solar connectors.The portable solar panel is dust-proof, waterproof, and weatherproof. It has an IP68 rating, which means it can withstand outdoor elements.
I loved that you get a carry case that doubles as a kickstand. This means you can maximize solar coverage by setting the panel at the optimum angle for fast charging.
3. Dott Arts Solar Outdoor String Lights
What better way to get into the holiday spirit than by hanging some string lights? These lights have both solar and USB charging options, so they’ll always be on even if there’s not enough sunlight. You can control them from a distance of five meters using a remote control. Choose between five brightness levels and four timing functions to create a holiday or romantic atmosphere in your backyard.
You’ll get eight hours of lighting when fully charged. The light is bright without giving an overwhelming glow, which makes these lights perfect for any event or holiday.
4. Kasa Smart Light Bulbs
If you want multicolor light bulbs, look no further. These light bulbs have dimmable warm-to-cool lights. You can set them to automatically adjust the color to match the natural light patterns or create your favorite light effects for a holiday party or a book reading session.
Plus, they’re voice controlled! Use Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or your voice to change the light color.
Finally, these are smart lights, so you can monitor their energy usage and set them to automatically turn on and off whenever you want.
5. Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2
Do you get annoyed every time you have to pause your favorite show to turn off/on an appliance? Then Kasa smart plug is what you need. This plug lets you add voice control to your outlets. This means you can control any appliance in your home with your voice, Google Assistant, or Amazon Alexa.Moreover, you can control your home electronics from your home, office, or even while on vacation with the Kasa app.
Finally, you can set the plugs to automatically turn on and off your appliances, which is great for energy saving.
6. Sunny zzzZZ 24 Pack Kitchen Dishcloths
Are you sick of dishcloths that shed fluff? Then you’ll love these. 24-pack cloths have a looped outer weave, so they are super absorbent and great for scrubbing. The under-weave supports the fabric and gives it strength and durability.
Best of all, these cloths are made of coral fleece, which is a sustainable fabric, and soft to the touch. Each edge is finished with a colorful piping, which makes the cloths look attractive.
You’ll use them for years to come — just pop them with your laundry, and they are ready to clean again.
7. HENCKELS Premium Quality 15-Piece Knife Set
Henckels knives are German-engineered and built to last. Satin-finished blades provide precision cutting and excellent sharpness.Each knife gives you paper-thin cuts. Even though they are durable, the knives are lightweight, so you can cut all the meats and veggies for a large meal without your hand getting tired.
The set contains everything from a paring knife, serrated, chef’s, bread knife, and more. Each knife is rust and stain-free, and you can clean them in the dishwasher.
8. Amazon Basics 40L Rubbish Bin with Steel Bar Pedal
This stainless steel trash can will make your kitchen look classy while holding all your trash. The 40-liter capacity is large enough, so you don’t have to empty it out every day.It’s extremely easy to use thanks to the soft-close lid, which reduces noise when opening and closing. You can keep it open by holding the pedal down or giving it a gentle push backward with your hand.
Finally, you can easily remove the plastic liner bucket and empty out the waste without having to lug the whole trash bin.
9. Lena Menstrual Cup
Tampons and cotton pads are convenient, but like all disposable items, they pile up in the landfill. There’s no way to recycle them, especially once they’ve been used. The Lena Menstrual Cup is a planet-safe alternative you can use many times.
This cup offers 12 hours of protection with no leaks, odors, or sensations, allowing you to stay active and comfortable.
It’s large enough for heavy periods, so you can do any activity that your heart desires without worrying about your period.
10. Hapinest Indoor Herb Garden Growing Seed Starter Kit
If you’ve always wanted to have your own garden but you’re short on space, it’s time to try an indoor garden growing kit.
This garden starter kit includes planting pots, seeds, soil discs, an herb grinder, and plant markets. There’s everything you need to start growing your own plants.
The soil included is non-GMO, so you can grow herbs with peace of mind. Once your plants are established, move them into pots and keep them in your kitchen so it’s easy to add aromatic cilantro, parsley, basil, and more to your food.
11. Gardguard 50ft Expandable Garden Hose
Most garden hoses have a 9-pattern hose nozzle, but Gardguard has a 10-functional safety nozzle. The nozzle comes with a rubberized coating that makes it easy to grip and not slip the hose.
The hose is expandable up to 50 feet. It has 3/4 in connectors that are rust-proof and lead-proof. You can even hook the hose to your kitchen faucet, clean your house, car, and yard, water your garden, and more.
The double-layer latex core prevents breakage and leakage. This hose is intended for long-term use.
12. Ohuhu Greenhouse for Outdoors
If you wanted your own greenhouse but didn’t want to part with a lot of money, there’s no better time than now. Take advantage of Black Friday deals, and get your own quality greenhouse.
This greenhouse has zippered roll-up door with two velcro side windows. The windows and doors regulate the airflow, so the plants are warm. Plus, it’s easy to peek inside and check how your plants are progressing.
The greenhouse comes with 12 wired shelves, so you’ll have plenty of space for flowers and vegetables, and heavy-duty tubes keep it stable in all kinds of weather.
13. FCMP Dual Chamber Tumbling Composter
No more bagging your yard clippings to the garbagemen. After all, they’d end up in the landfill where they can’t do any good.
This tumbling composter allows you to turn your green waste and food remains into a prime fertilizer for your plants while reducing your communal waste.
Who says composting is a messy business? This composter’s dual-chamber and tumbling design make things so much easier.
Just dump your waste inside and give it a spin every 2-3 days.
14. Schwinn Fitness Indoor Cycling Exercise Bike
This is more than an indoor cycling bike. You also get a 1-year JRNY membership, which assesses your current fitness levels and creates workouts tailored to your needs. You’ll improve over time and get coaching and feedback.
You can also use the bike with apps such as Peloton and Zwift or join online spinning classes. The bike will show your stats on display, including heart rate, speed, calories, time, and distance.
Get in shape in the New Year, or control your weight during the delicious holiday meals with this bike.
What Makes Products Sustainable? Eco-Friendly Black Friday Tips
Sustainable products can mean a lot of different things. Now, we’ll explain different aspects of sustainability so you can make smarter Black Friday choices.
The Product Is Plastic-Free
For many of us who are trying to adopt a minimalist lifestyle by owning less and producing less waste, the single biggest waste category is single-use plastic.
The truth is that only some types of plastics can be recycled. Unfortunately, most plastic waste ends up in landfills or even worse, our oceans where it poses a direct threat to marine life.
There are two ways to beat plastic waste — (1) to only buy reusable items and (2) to replace single-use items with those made of biodegradable materials like paper, bamboo, rice, and cork.
Does not Contain Hazardous Materials
In the last 100 years, science has come up with a whole list of “wonder materials” that are supposed to make our lives easier.
However, it took some time for us to realize that not all those materials are safe for us and the environment.
When buying cookware, make sure it doesn't contain Teflon (PTFE) or its cousin PFOA. Used for decades for non-stick pans, both compounds were discovered to be highly toxic and carcinogenic.
Instead, look for Black Friday kitchen deals that are built to last. Ceramic, steel, or pre-seasoned cast iron cookware doesn’t stick and will last a lifetime.
Choose wooden or bamboo cutting boards and look for Tupperware that is BPA-free. The same goes for utensils. If you’re not sure that your egg-scrambling spatula is free of toxic flame retardants, use a wooden one instead.
Company Has an Eco-Conscious Mission Statement
An eco-conscious mission statement is the core of a company’s sustainability efforts. It stands to remind the organization and its stakeholders why protecting the natural world is important for business.
These ethical companies may:
- Use organic fibers
- Support local farmers
- Adopt an ethical supply chain
- Develop water-saving manufacture
- Recycle leftovers
- Introduce fair labor standards
- Give back to the community
Sustainability comes in many forms, and you can support these companies by putting trust in their products.
The Product Helps You Live a Sustainable Life
The biggest obstacle that stands between a sustainably-minded individual and a sustainable lifestyle is the pile of waste that we create.
The solution lies in buying and owning durable, buy-it-for-life items and shopping for supplies that come with sustainable packaging.
Instead of buying bottled body and hair products look for those made in the shape of bars.
Use paper or Beeswax wraps for packaging holiday food instead of cling film.
Remember: If you can use it for many years, or compost it at home, it’s sustainable.
Made of Recycled or Upcycled Materials
The good news is that more and more companies are looking to include recycled materials in their products.
You can find apparel lines made from plastic bottles, or recycled fibers. Retailers like H&M even offer you a discount for every bag of old clothes you bring — rest assured they’re going to recycle it into next season’s fashion statements.
Some companies have raised their recycling game on the next level — recycling hazardous fishing nets into skateboards, sunglasses, and clothes.
Final Thoughts
Some of us will queue in front of the stores on Black Friday, waiting for doors to burst open while others will compare the best online deals awaiting Cyber Monday.
Take my advice and use the sales to stock on earth-friendly supplies or pull the trigger on that discounted product that will make your life more sustainable.
Keep in mind that earth-friendly living doesn’t end in our shopping basket. Let’s all use the holiday season to make more sustainable decisions, from Christmas decorations to the food we put on our table.
Green Blog
14 Best Early Black Friday Deals of 2023: Take the Eco-Friendly Route
by : Marina Maletic | Last Updated: October 19, 2023
Contents
Say “No” to senseless shopping and use Black Friday deals and Cyber Monday sales to make your lifestyle more sustainable with earth-friendly products.
Black Friday is just behind the corner and major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Costco are rolling out insane deals on anything from kitchenware to appliances and electronics.
Yet all this shopping fever is causing mixed feelings for many sustainably-minded shoppers.
You can choose to boycott the event altogether, expressing your discontent with overproduction and senseless spending.
OR, you may see deep discounts as an opportunity to buy into sustainable Black Friday Deals and get earth-friendly products that are otherwise out of your reach.
This way, you’re supporting ethical companies, helping them offer more sustainable products in the future.
Is Black Friday Environmentally Sustainable?
Those shopping rampage scenes that go viral every Black Friday have little to do with a sustainable way of life.
The allure of “lowest ever” discounts sends many shoppers into a buying frenzy, so they often purchase many things they don’t need.
Now, let’s make this one clear. Under no circumstances do we support this kind of mindless shopping.
A GreenCitizen version of Black Friday is that we should take advantage of low prices and look for eco-friendly products that could all help us live a sustainable life.
Now, making a product sustainable often means taking a few extra steps in the whole sourcing, manufacturing, or logistics process. This is why earth-safe or ethical products often cost more than run-of-the-mill products in the same category.
Unfortunately, this is also the reason why many people can’t afford sustainable products, even if they wanted to.
This is when Black Friday kicks in.
In two weeks’ time, you'll have the opportunity to really make a difference by targeting those Black Friday Deals that come from ethical companies and brands. We also endorse deals that include products that let us use less electricity, leave less waste, or are made from recyclable or earth-safe materials.
However, even if you’re shopping sustainably, it’s important to consider whether you need any of the items in your basket.
Buying nothing is always cheaper, less wasteful, and more ethical.
On the other hand, there are discounted items that help us live sustainably. One way or another, we should weigh every shopping decision carefully.
After all, the holiday season doesn’t end with Black Friday — there'll be plenty of discounts in the days before us.
Read More:
A Guide to Sustainable Thanksgiving Gifts and Party Planning
When Are Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2023?
This year (2023), Black Friday is on November 24, but we all know that many Black Friday online deals become available even sooner than the actual event.
For many high-demand items, you may see price drops at top retailers starting the Monday before Black Friday and continuing through Cyber Monday on November 27.
Still, if you blow your chance to get sustainable Black Friday deals, don’t panic — there are more sale days in coming up:
Read More:
34 Best Eco-Friendly Gifts for Christmas
14 Best Early Black Friday Deals (Only Eco-Friendly Products)
1. QiSa Solar Power Bank
Unfortunately, freak weather situations are getting more and more common. A solar power bank ensures you won’t be caught unaware next time there’s extreme weather.
This solar charger has four high-conversion charging panels, which are charged as long as you keep them in sunlight. The solar power is 12W, and the current input is 1.16A.
You can charge this power bank via a wireless charging function and two USB outputs and use it to charge up to three devices simultaneously.
Finally, this is a great addition to your outdoor adventures. It’s waterproof, dust-proof, and drop-proof, so it’ll work in the most extreme conditions.
2. EcoFlow 110W Portable Solar Panel
The portable solar panel is dust-proof, waterproof, and weatherproof. It has an IP68 rating, which means it can withstand outdoor elements.
I loved that you get a carry case that doubles as a kickstand. This means you can maximize solar coverage by setting the panel at the optimum angle for fast charging.
3. Dott Arts Solar Outdoor String Lights
You can control them from a distance of five meters using a remote control. Choose between five brightness levels and four timing functions to create a holiday or romantic atmosphere in your backyard.
You’ll get eight hours of lighting when fully charged. The light is bright without giving an overwhelming glow, which makes these lights perfect for any event or holiday.
4. Kasa Smart Light Bulbs
You can set them to automatically adjust the color to match the natural light patterns or create your favorite light effects for a holiday party or a book reading session.
Plus, they’re voice controlled! Use Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or your voice to change the light color.
Finally, these are smart lights, so you can monitor their energy usage and set them to automatically turn on and off whenever you want.
5. Kasa Smart Plug HS103P2
Moreover, you can control your home electronics from your home, office, or even while on vacation with the Kasa app.
Finally, you can set the plugs to automatically turn on and off your appliances, which is great for energy saving.
Read More:
20 Best Solar Christmas Lights: Reviews & Buyer’s Guide
6. Sunny zzzZZ 24 Pack Kitchen Dishcloths
Best of all, these cloths are made of coral fleece, which is a sustainable fabric, and soft to the touch. Each edge is finished with a colorful piping, which makes the cloths look attractive.
You’ll use them for years to come — just pop them with your laundry, and they are ready to clean again.
7. HENCKELS Premium Quality 15-Piece Knife Set
Each knife gives you paper-thin cuts. Even though they are durable, the knives are lightweight, so you can cut all the meats and veggies for a large meal without your hand getting tired.
The set contains everything from a paring knife, serrated, chef’s, bread knife, and more. Each knife is rust and stain-free, and you can clean them in the dishwasher.8. Amazon Basics 40L Rubbish Bin with Steel Bar Pedal
It’s extremely easy to use thanks to the soft-close lid, which reduces noise when opening and closing. You can keep it open by holding the pedal down or giving it a gentle push backward with your hand.
Finally, you can easily remove the plastic liner bucket and empty out the waste without having to lug the whole trash bin.
9. Lena Menstrual Cup
The Lena Menstrual Cup is a planet-safe alternative you can use many times.
This cup offers 12 hours of protection with no leaks, odors, or sensations, allowing you to stay active and comfortable.
It’s large enough for heavy periods, so you can do any activity that your heart desires without worrying about your period.
10. Hapinest Indoor Herb Garden Growing Seed Starter Kit
If you’ve always wanted to have your own garden but you’re short on space, it’s time to try an indoor garden growing kit.
This garden starter kit includes planting pots, seeds, soil discs, an herb grinder, and plant markets. There’s everything you need to start growing your own plants.
The soil included is non-GMO, so you can grow herbs with peace of mind. Once your plants are established, move them into pots and keep them in your kitchen so it’s easy to add aromatic cilantro, parsley, basil, and more to your food.
Read More:
Best Solar Christmas Decorations: Review & Buying Guide
11. Gardguard 50ft Expandable Garden Hose
Most garden hoses have a 9-pattern hose nozzle, but Gardguard has a 10-functional safety nozzle. The nozzle comes with a rubberized coating that makes it easy to grip and not slip the hose.
The hose is expandable up to 50 feet. It has 3/4 in connectors that are rust-proof and lead-proof. You can even hook the hose to your kitchen faucet, clean your house, car, and yard, water your garden, and more.
The double-layer latex core prevents breakage and leakage. This hose is intended for long-term use.
12. Ohuhu Greenhouse for Outdoors
If you wanted your own greenhouse but didn’t want to part with a lot of money, there’s no better time than now. Take advantage of Black Friday deals, and get your own quality greenhouse.
This greenhouse has zippered roll-up door with two velcro side windows. The windows and doors regulate the airflow, so the plants are warm. Plus, it’s easy to peek inside and check how your plants are progressing.
The greenhouse comes with 12 wired shelves, so you’ll have plenty of space for flowers and vegetables, and heavy-duty tubes keep it stable in all kinds of weather.
13. FCMP Dual Chamber Tumbling Composter
No more bagging your yard clippings to the garbagemen. After all, they’d end up in the landfill where they can’t do any good.
This tumbling composter allows you to turn your green waste and food remains into a prime fertilizer for your plants while reducing your communal waste.
Who says composting is a messy business? This composter’s dual-chamber and tumbling design make things so much easier.
Just dump your waste inside and give it a spin every 2-3 days.
14. Schwinn Fitness Indoor Cycling Exercise Bike
This is more than an indoor cycling bike. You also get a 1-year JRNY membership, which assesses your current fitness levels and creates workouts tailored to your needs. You’ll improve over time and get coaching and feedback.
You can also use the bike with apps such as Peloton and Zwift or join online spinning classes. The bike will show your stats on display, including heart rate, speed, calories, time, and distance.
Get in shape in the New Year, or control your weight during the delicious holiday meals with this bike.
Read More:
Winter Gardening Tips and Tricks: Here’s How YOU Can Do It!
What Makes Products Sustainable? Eco-Friendly Black Friday Tips
Sustainable products can mean a lot of different things. Now, we’ll explain different aspects of sustainability so you can make smarter Black Friday choices.
The Product Is Plastic-Free
For many of us who are trying to adopt a minimalist lifestyle by owning less and producing less waste, the single biggest waste category is single-use plastic.
The truth is that only some types of plastics can be recycled. Unfortunately, most plastic waste ends up in landfills or even worse, our oceans where it poses a direct threat to marine life.
There are two ways to beat plastic waste — (1) to only buy reusable items and (2) to replace single-use items with those made of biodegradable materials like paper, bamboo, rice, and cork.
Does not Contain Hazardous Materials
In the last 100 years, science has come up with a whole list of “wonder materials” that are supposed to make our lives easier.
However, it took some time for us to realize that not all those materials are safe for us and the environment.
When buying cookware, make sure it doesn't contain Teflon (PTFE) or its cousin PFOA. Used for decades for non-stick pans, both compounds were discovered to be highly toxic and carcinogenic.
Instead, look for Black Friday kitchen deals that are built to last. Ceramic, steel, or pre-seasoned cast iron cookware doesn’t stick and will last a lifetime.
Choose wooden or bamboo cutting boards and look for Tupperware that is BPA-free. The same goes for utensils. If you’re not sure that your egg-scrambling spatula is free of toxic flame retardants, use a wooden one instead.
Company Has an Eco-Conscious Mission Statement
An eco-conscious mission statement is the core of a company’s sustainability efforts. It stands to remind the organization and its stakeholders why protecting the natural world is important for business.
These ethical companies may:
Sustainability comes in many forms, and you can support these companies by putting trust in their products.
Read More:
44 Of The World’s Most Ethical Companies (Updated 2022)
The Product Helps You Live a Sustainable Life
The biggest obstacle that stands between a sustainably-minded individual and a sustainable lifestyle is the pile of waste that we create.
The solution lies in buying and owning durable, buy-it-for-life items and shopping for supplies that come with sustainable packaging.
Instead of buying bottled body and hair products look for those made in the shape of bars.
Use paper or Beeswax wraps for packaging holiday food instead of cling film.
Remember: If you can use it for many years, or compost it at home, it’s sustainable.
Made of Recycled or Upcycled Materials
The good news is that more and more companies are looking to include recycled materials in their products.
You can find apparel lines made from plastic bottles, or recycled fibers. Retailers like H&M even offer you a discount for every bag of old clothes you bring — rest assured they’re going to recycle it into next season’s fashion statements.
Some companies have raised their recycling game on the next level — recycling hazardous fishing nets into skateboards, sunglasses, and clothes.
Read More:
Buying vs. Leasing Solar Panels: Which Path Should You Take?
Final Thoughts
Some of us will queue in front of the stores on Black Friday, waiting for doors to burst open while others will compare the best online deals awaiting Cyber Monday.
Take my advice and use the sales to stock on earth-friendly supplies or pull the trigger on that discounted product that will make your life more sustainable.
Keep in mind that earth-friendly living doesn’t end in our shopping basket. Let’s all use the holiday season to make more sustainable decisions, from Christmas decorations to the food we put on our table.
Marina Maletic
Marina is passionate about sustainability and works to help ensure our planet stays as our home for a long time. She takes part in environmental conservation by recycling and not buying single-use plastic. When not writing, she can be found with her nose stuck in a book or trying out new baking recipes.
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Category: Green Blog, Lifestyle, Product Review, Sustainable Living