Decorating for the holidays is a cherished tradition, but it often comes with plastic packaging, glittery waste, and items destined for the landfill. With a little creativity and a focus on reusable, natural, and upcycled materials, you can decorate sustainably for any season. Here are practical, beautiful ideas to help you celebrate the holidays without leaving a trail of waste behind.
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Use Natural Elements for Rustic Charm
Nature provides some of the best—and most sustainable—materials for holiday decorations. These elements are compostable, biodegradable, and often free, making them an eco-friendly choice for any celebration.
Pinecones and Branches
Pinecones, twigs, and evergreen branches make stunning holiday decor. Arrange them in a bowl for a centerpiece, string them into garlands, or create a rustic wreath. Bonus: They add a fresh, woodsy scent to your home.
Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables
Oranges, apples, cranberries, and gourds can be used to create festive displays. Dried orange slices strung on twine make lovely garlands or ornaments, while pumpkins and squash are perfect for fall-themed decorations.
Flowers and Leaves
Press flowers and leaves to create unique decorations like framed art or garlands. Choose seasonal blooms for an extra touch of authenticity—think holly and poinsettias in winter or sunflowers in summer.
Upcycle Everyday Items
Upcycling gives new life to items that might otherwise be discarded. With a bit of imagination, you can turn household objects into stunning holiday decorations.
Jar Lanterns
Clean out glass jars and use them as lanterns. Add a candle, fairy lights, or natural elements like pine sprigs for a warm, festive glow. You can paint or decorate the jars with eco-friendly materials to match your theme.
Old Fabric and Clothes
Cut up old clothes or fabric scraps to make reusable bunting, bows, or ornaments. These can be sewn, glued, or simply tied together, creating decorations that are unique and full of character.
Cardboard and Paper Crafts
Save cardboard boxes and paper scraps to craft stars, snowflakes, or other holiday shapes. Decorate them with non-toxic paint or markers, and string them into garlands or hang them on the tree.
Opt for Reusable Decorations
Investing in decorations you can use year after year reduces waste and often saves money in the long run. Reusable decor can still be stylish and festive—here’s how to make it work.
Cloth Banners and Garlands
Instead of paper streamers, use cloth banners or garlands made from durable materials. Store them carefully, and they’ll last for years. Choose neutral designs that work across multiple seasons, or customize for specific holidays.
Ornaments with Meaning
Build a collection of ornaments that carry sentimental value, like family heirlooms or handmade pieces. Avoid plastic ornaments and opt for wood, metal, or ceramic alternatives that stand the test of time.
Reusable Wreath Frames
Buy a sturdy wreath frame and decorate it with seasonal items. Swap out the decorations for each holiday, using natural elements or reusable materials. The frame stays the same, but the look is endlessly customizable.
Create DIY Decorations with Kids
Getting kids involved in making decorations is not only fun but also a great way to teach them about sustainability. Use simple, kid-friendly crafts to create zero-waste decor together.
Pasta Garlands
Dye uncooked pasta with food coloring and string it into garlands. Kids love the hands-on nature of this craft, and the result is colorful and festive. After the holiday, compost or reuse the pasta for another project.
Salt Dough Ornaments
Mix flour, salt, and water to create salt dough, which can be shaped into ornaments and baked. Kids can paint them with non-toxic paints, and the finished pieces make adorable keepsakes.
Nature Walk Creations
Take a family walk to collect natural materials like leaves, acorns, and pinecones. Use these treasures to make crafts like mobiles, garlands, or collages. It’s an activity that combines creativity with outdoor fun.
Sustainable Lighting Solutions
Holiday lighting sets the mood, but it can also be wasteful if not done thoughtfully. Choose eco-friendly options to illuminate your celebrations.
LED String Lights
Switch to LED lights, which use far less energy than traditional bulbs and last much longer. Solar-powered options are even better, as they reduce your electricity use entirely.
DIY Candles
Make your own candles using soy wax or beeswax. Use upcycled containers like teacups or mason jars for a personalized touch. These candles add a cozy, festive ambiance while staying true to your zero-waste goals.
Say No to Glitter and Plastic
Glitter and plastic decorations may look pretty, but they’re environmental nightmares. Microplastics from glitter can harm wildlife and pollute waterways. Here’s how to avoid them:
Choose Biodegradable Alternatives
If you love the sparkle of glitter, opt for biodegradable versions made from plant-based materials. These are safer for the environment and just as dazzling.
Natural and Fabric-Based Decor
Replace plastic decorations with natural or fabric-based options. Felt, wood, and paper are versatile materials that can be used to make everything from ornaments to tree toppers.
Celebrate Sustainably Every Season
Creating zero-waste holiday decorations is all about making thoughtful choices. By using natural elements, upcycling materials, and choosing reusable items, you can celebrate every season in a way that’s kinder to the planet. These ideas aren’t just about reducing waste—they’re about creating meaningful traditions that you and your family can cherish for years to come.