Top 5 Sustainable Gift Wrapping Ideas

Reusable & recyclable wrapping paper ideas

There’s nothing like beautifully wrapped gifts at Christmas time - they show love before they’re even opened! But glossy, glittery papers often contain plastic and can’t be recycled, meaning they end up in landfill after the festivities.

This year, why not give your wrapping a sustainable glow-up? Using recyclable - or even reusable - wrapping can really help you to cut down on all the waste that comes with this busy time of year. With a few simple creative swaps, your gifts can look stunning and be more conscious of our planet.

1. Choose recyclable or recycled wrapping paper

Not all wrapping paper is created equal. Many commercial designs contain glitter, foil, or laminates that can’t be recycled. Instead, go for 100% recyclable wrapping paper or recycled paper wrapping paper - plain kraft paper is a timeless favourite.

Add personality with eco friendly gift wrapping materials like hand-drawn designs, potato stamps, or natural inks. Or take a sentimental approach by reusing your child’s drawings, old calendars or magazines to create one-of-a-kind gift wrap.

Our top tip: Mix plain brown recyclable wrapping paper with layered scraps of old sheet music, books, or artwork for a creative collage effect - have a look in your local charity shop for inspiration!

Gifts wrapped in recyclable wrapping paper for an eco friendly Christmas

2. Decorate gifts with natural, biodegradable touches

Skip the synthetic bows and ribbons and go for eco-friendly gift wrap decorations made from nature. Think dried orange slices, sprigs of rosemary, cinnamon sticks, pine cones, or twine made from biodegradable jute.

Not only do they look beautiful, but they add scent and texture without waste. Plus, everything can be composted afterwards!

Our top tip: Tie a sprig of lavender to each parcel for a subtle fragrance.

Christmas gifts decorated with biodegradable eco-friendly Christmas decorations

3. Reuse gift bags & boxes

One of the simplest ways to wrap sustainably is to reuse what you already have. Gift bags, sturdy boxes, and drawstring pouches can all be used year after year.

To keep them in circulation, avoid writing directly on tags, or use eco-friendly gift bags with detachable labels so they can be re-gifted - and ask your friends and family to do the same for you, too. For a more personalised touch, you could even decorate plain kraft boxes with natural string or your children’s artwork.

Our top tip: Create a family tradition of a ‘travelling gift bag’ that reappears every Christmas - it’s meaningful and waste-free.

Sustainable Christmas gift wrapping made from reusable gift bags

4. Wrap with reusable fabric

Reusable fabric gift wrap is becoming one of the most popular sustainable alternatives. Inspired by the Japanese art of Furoshiki, these beautiful wrapping cloths can be tied, folded, and reused for years.

Choose organic cotton, linen, or even repurpose muslins or scarves for a unique, zero-waste finish. The best part is that you could even double up your wrapping as part of the gift - from festive tea towels to baby blankets.

Our top tip: Use soft neutral fabrics and tie with a knot or jute twine. Tuck in a cinnamon stick or dried flower to finish.

Eco friendly Christmas gift wrapping made with reusable fabrics

5. Use sustainable & biodegradable packaging fillers

If you’re wrapping delicate items or creating a sustainable gift box, look for planet-friendly fillers such as wood shavings, shredded kraft paper, or compostable tissue. They keep your gifts safe and stylish while avoiding plastic-based confetti or bubble wrap.

This is also a great way to reuse packaging materials you’ve received throughout the year.

Our top tip: Mix shredded paper with dried herbs or petals for a naturally fragrant filler.

Natural gift wrap ideas for Christmas, with biodegradable filler

Small swaps make a big difference

From recyclable wrapping paper to reusable gift bags, these thoughtful Christmas gift wrapping swaps help reduce waste without losing any festive magic. And if you’re looking for something truly sustainable to wrap, explore our range of organic babywear and natural skincare gifts.