Specially For You

We, as consumers, have great power. Our purchases send a clear message to manufacturers about what we want ... and they, wishing to prosper, provide the products which we are willing to spend money on.

So if we support Eco-friendly products and companies, we encourage the market to provide more of the same ... and that's good for us and the earth!

Today I'd like to introduce you to the companies currently listed on our Special Offers Page. I don't receive any compensation for their listing, or this post ... I simply feel that it's important to support companies who are doing their best to protect the environment.

Of course, the most green option is not to buy. But when we need something, it's important to choose earth friendly items.

Even if you're not in the market for something new right now, I encourage you to visit these vendors and let them know that we appreciate their efforts.

ecolissa

La Francesca

Gina Jordan

ecolissa

Specializing in eco friendly and vegan woman’s clothing and accessories. Until December 31, 2015, you can get 20% off any purchase. Use code rf20 at checkout.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

La Francesca Eco-Resort

Specializing in Eco-friendly vacations in Italy. Get a 5-15% discount until December 31, 2015, with discount code FOOTPRINTS.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

Gina Jordan's Soft Cloth Shop

Specializing in reusable paperless towels, baby wipes, and cloth napkins. Use code ReduceFootprints until December 31, 2015, to get 10% off any purchase.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

LustOrganic

Sow True Seed

Funnest

LustOrganic

Specializing in organic, natural bath and body products. Until January 1, 2015, use code ReduceFootPrints to enjoy 20% off any purchase.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

Sow True Seed

Specializing in open-pollinated seeds. Use code REDUCE10, until December 31, 2015, to get 10% off all seed packets.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

Funnest

Specializing in Eco-friendly wall decor. Until September 1, 2015, you can get an additional 20% off any order (can be combined with other sales to get a maximum of 40% off), and free shipping on orders over $35, by using code footprints20.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

Violet's Buds

Nubila Services

Celadon Road

Violet's Buds

Specializing in handmade accessories for you and your little flower. Save 20% on any purchase in the shop by using code ECO20. This offer expires on June 20, 2015.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

Nubila Services

Specializing in elegant, unique solutions for a mindful community - compostable dinnerware. Enjoy a storewide 10% discount until May 31, 2015, using code SAVE10%.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

Celadon Road by Amanda Arkans

Specializing in Eco-friendly body care and home products. Mention Small Footprints when enrolling in Amanda Arkans' team and get a personalized party-pack worth over $50. This business opportunity ends on June 30, 2015.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

StopLittering.com

EartH2O

StopLittering.com

Specializing in a litter-free society. Between now and August 31, 2015, use code KAB to get $5 off any T-shirt in the shop.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

EartH2O

Specializing in sustainability studies in Costa Rica. Save $100 off the program fee by using code REDUCE2015 through April, 2016.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

I'd like to thank all of these vendors for their generosity and for their efforts to operate in an earth-friendly manner. We need more companies like them!

Think green products are too expensive?

This post will introduce you to the companies listed on our Special Offers Page. I received no compensation for this post ... I simply want to introduce you to companies doing their best to operate in an earth-friendly manner.

We've talked about the power of our purchases and how supporting green companies and products is one of the best ways to tell manufacturers that we want products and services which are kind to the earth.

Unfortunately, earth-friendly products aren't always affordable. So I've contacted some great folks and asked them to give you a deal ... and they have generously agreed! If you'd like to take advantage of any offer, click HERE for the details.

Let's meet them (listed in reverse alphabetical order) ...

Violet's Buds creates beautiful items from recycled and upcycled materials. They also strive to make the most of the materials they use, thereby reducing waste. This shop carries lovely hair clips, headbands, pigtail sets, and even hoop art. You'll find items appropriate for little girls and for moms. Right now you can save 20% on any purchase in the shop.

LustOrganic produces rich body care products that focus on the health of both users and the planet. Luxurious soaps, body whips, and foot soaks are just a few of the wonderful products you'll find in this shop. It'll be easy to pamper yourself with a 20% discount.

Looking for a truly unique gift or accessory for your home? Liquidcardboard produces artisanal, functional, and innovative products which are made from recycled cardboard. One will find message boards, hats, vases, and more in this creative shop. And by the way, each product can be recycled when it's lived it's life. Get a 15% discount on online purchases until April 1st.

Our next vendor, La Francesca Eco-Resort, wants you to take a vacation in Italy. Located along the Ligurian Eastern Riviera, in a 15 hectares' protected area facing the sea of Cinque Terre, visitors are treated to moderate temperatures, a self-sufficient settlement, and the opportunity to leisurely discover a unique landscape. Depending on your preferred vacation dates, they offer you anywhere from a 5 to 15% discount.

Are you trying to get away from disposable items? Gina Jordan's Shop is the place for you. Shoppers will find products like organic paperless towels, baby wipes, and wet bags. Ditch the disposables and save 10% off any purchase from Gina.

Finding earth-friendly clothing isn't easy! Ecolissa is an online store which carries clothing and accessories made from hemp, bamboo, organic cotton, and even reclaimed materials. If you're thinking that you'll find plain, "sackcloth" type clothing, think again ... this shop carries fashionable clothes. See for yourself and claim a 20% discount off any purchase.

Did you know that essential oils can be used to help achieve overall wellness? They can calm us down, supplement our diets, and serve as a natural disinfectant. Not all oils are equal, however, and some can actually cause harm. doTERRA offers only Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade® essential oils. Their site includes single oils, oil blends, and a ton of information on how to use their products. Buy from this shop and receive a free sample of peppermint, slim and sassy or on guard.

Celadon Road by, Amanda Arkans is an amazing shop! They carry a bit of everything from personal care products to earth-friendly bracelets to cleaning & laundry products ... and more. I can tell you, from personal experience, that the products are high quality! Not only does Amanda offer Eco-friendly products, she offers business opportunities. Join her team and get a party pack worth at least $50. There's also a possibility of $100 in commissions and a $20 "thank you" gift within the first 30 days (click over to the special offers page for the details).


Thanks to all the above vendors for giving us an economical way to experience Eco-friendly products. They make it possible to truly put our money where our hearts are and protect the earth.


If you have an Eco-friendly product which you'd like to have featured on our special offers page, send an email to us at reducefootprints@gmail.com with "special offer" in the subject line.

Vendors who care about the earth

This post will introduce you to the companies listed on our Special Offers Page. I am receiving no compensation for this post ... I simply want to introduce you to companies doing their best to operate in an earth-friendly manner.

Every few months, I like to take the opportunity to feature vendors who are making a difference in our world. They embrace environmental sustainability and make protecting the earth the main focus of their business model.

Let's meet them:

Micah Toll takes green transportation seriously. He discovered just how easy, and inexpensive, it is to build an ebike. Ebikes are perfect for those times when pedalling isn't enough power and a car is too much. "The Ultimate DIY Ebike Guide (an ebook)" offers readers everything they need to know to turn their bicycle into an efficient, Eco-friendly mode of transportation. Reduce Footprints readers can pick up their copy at a discount of 15% off the list price.

Essential oils are ... well ... essential in a "green" home. Some oils act as a natural disinfectant, perfect for removing mold and mildew. Others can be used in place of commercial air fresheners. They can enhance our moods and even repel bugs. doTERRA is giving readers a free sample.



Sometimes we may not "need" an item but it serves to make us happy.

And happiness is important! Eco-friendly accessories for a little girl's hair can bring a smile to her face. Pretty "green" items for a home can help us feel content. And what woman doesn't feel a bit special when wearing a beautiful headband. The folks at Violet's Buds are offering us 20% off any purchase from their shop.

Environmentally sound products can be both beautiful and functional. Paloma Pottery uses recycled glass to create items such as goblets, bowls, home furnishings, jewelry, and more. For a limited time, you can get 15% off your entire order.




Vacations add vitality to our lives. More and more vacation spots are going "green". La Francesca resort is one such spot. Located along Ligurian Eastern Riviera, in a 15 hectares' protected area, La Francesca is a self-sufficient settlement. Eco-friendly accommodations offer visitors a chance to discover landscapes, scents and natural flavors. Reduce Footprints readers can get a discount of 5% to 15% off their stay in this unique resort.

Using recycled products, natural dyes, and earth-safe materials is important. What if your purchase could not only protect the earth but protect the people who create the products as well? Oz Fair Trade Pty Ltd has a simple goal: to help artisans, living in extreme poverty, by providing a platform for their beautiful products. Get 15% off their Eco-Friendly product range.


The most Eco-friendly purchase is, of course, no purchase. But when we do buy a product, we have a great opportunity to support "green". There is power in our purchases.

When you choose to buy, I encourage you to support vendors who care about the earth. And, of course, check out our Special Offers Page for exclusive deals.



If you have an Eco-friendly product and would like a free listing on our Special Offers Page, please contact us at reducefootprints at gmail dot com.

Review & Giveaway - SoapBox Soaps

Eco-friendly products are better for us! I get that! With some products, we accept the "better for us" concept on good faith. Logically we know the truth but we don't really experience the difference in a day-to-day manner.

Natural body soaps have allowed me to feel the difference. I have very sensitive skin and have suffered from allergies all my life. Since switching to Eco-friendly soaps, my skin has actually gotten healthier. Rashes and skin irritations are things of the past.

So, I have tangible proof that Eco-friendly body soaps are good for us!

I was thrilled to receive an invitation to try products from SoapBox.

Bar Soap

Body Wash

Liquid Hand Soap

A Little Research

Before accepting the products, I did a little research and asked some questions.

SoapBox products are made in the US using natural ingredients such as organic shea butter, aloe, and essential oils. They are cruelty free (and vegan certified), and do not contain gluten, palm oil, parabens, petrochemicals, phthalates, or sulfates.

From the website, I learned that bars of soap come in Eco-friendly cardboard boxes. I was curious about the packaging for liquid soaps and learned that bottles are made of 100% recyclable plastic. The representative even gave me a link to the materials used to package samples (Xela packs).

About The Company

A company's philosophy is important!

The people at SoapBox are dedicated to changing the world with their products ... and they invite customers to join their mission. Each purchase generates a donation to people in the US and around the world. For every bottle of liquid hand soap sold, they donate a month's supply of clean water through RainCatcher. A bottle of body wash means a year's supply of vitamins through Vitamin Angels. And a person in need receives a bar of soap every time SoapBox sells a bar.

There is a Chinese Proverb which says, "If you give a man a fish you feed him for a day. If you teach a man to fish you feed him for a lifetime." SoapBox embraces that philosophy and works with soap makers around the world to empower communities.

The Products

I received a bar of eucalyptus soap, a sample of mandarin liquid hand soap, and a sample of lavender body wash.

The bar soap is delightful. The scent is refreshing and pleasing, lingering slightly on the skin after use. It left my skin feeling clean and moisturized.

The liquid hand soap smells wonderful ... similar to the fabulous fragrance experienced when peeling a mandarin orange. The soap lathers just a bit and washes off completely.

The body wash turns a shower into a spa moment. It is silky on the skin and the scent of lavender is lovely!

Conclusion

SoapBox gives me that tangible proof that Eco-friendly items are good for my body. They also redefine the meaning of success. It can no longer be only measured by the bottom line reported to shareholders, but rather by the amount of good a company does in the world ... for both people and the planet.

In my book, SoapBox is a success!

Purchase SoapBox Products

SoapBox products are now available at Target. Click HERE to see if your local store carries them. You can also purchase products from the SOAPBOX SITE. And remember, every purchase means a donation to someone in need.

SoapBox Giveaway

SoapBox has generously agreed to give one lucky Reduce Footprints' reader a gift package of their own. WhooHoo!

This giveaway is open worldwide and will run for one week. There are only four, easy entry methods. Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway



I received SoapBox products in order to write this review. I received no other compensation. All opinions expressed are mine and mine alone and reflect my honest opinion of the material reviewed.

Tasha Hussey Body - #Review and #Giveaway

I recently had the good fortune to try out some great body care products by Tasha Hussey Body.

Eucalyptus Mint Body Butter

Eucalyptus Mint Loofah Soap

One of the things that I enjoy about doing reviews is getting to know the people behind the products.

Tasha Hussey, who studied Fashion Design, had a clothing line for 12 years. Each item was made from natural or organic fibers. Currently, she has a line of Vintage re-purposed jewelry. Old focal pieces, some of which have been sitting in warehouses for over 40 years, are mixed with new findings.

Two of Tasha's children suffer from eczema. So she changed their diet, switching to wild caught fish, and organic vegetables and fruits. At one point, she realized that it didn't make sense to eat so well while, at the same time, adding chemicals back into her body via body care products. And, those products were negatively affecting her children's skin.

Tasha decided to make her own body care products ... products made from natural, safe ingredients ... and Tasha Hussey Body was born.

Tasha Hussey Eucalyptus Mint Body Butter

This body butter is wonderful! It comes in a Tin. The ingredients are clearly listed and include things like avocado, mango, and essential oils. The scent is so nice ... a delightful mix of eucalyptus and peppermint, which is strong enough to linger on your skin but not too heavy to be overwhelming.

The white butter inside is semi-solid, along the lines of a soft wax. A little goes a long ways. I love the feel of it and the way it is immediately absorbed into my skin. I tried it on my face, hands, arms, and even the heels of my feet. It did a very nice job of moisturizing and softening my skin.

Tasha Hussey Eucalyptus Mint Loofah Soap

What a clever invention! Adding a slice of organically-grown loofah to the bar itself means that one can wash and exfoliate at the same time ... no wash cloth or scrubbing brush necessary.

This beautiful, vegetable glycerine soap comes in an Eco-friendly wrap. I was concerned about one ingredient, Palm Oil, so I asked Tasha about it. She replied that she sources only certified sustainable palm oil and that she buys all of her products from reputable companies.

The scent is similar to the body butter ... noticeable but not heavy. The loofah gently scrubs while the soap cleans. There was no residue left on my skin (don't you hate it when it feels like you can't get the soap off?).

After two weeks of use, neither product irritated my sensitive skin. I happily recommend both products and Tasha Hussey Body.

You can browse Tasha's full line by clicking HERE.

Giveaway

Ready to have some fun? Tasha has very generously offered to give one lucky Reduce Footprints' reader the same two products that I got to try. WhooHoo!

This giveaway is open worldwide and will run for one week. All entries are optional ... the more you complete, the better your chances of winning.

Have fun ... and Good Luck Everyone!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Sneak Peek: We have a new survey for May. Join us tomorrow for another thought-provoking question.

Images courtesy of Tasha Hussey

Do you support Eco-friendly products?

Our purchases send a message

This post will introduce you to the companies listed on our Special Offers Page. I received no compensation for this post ... I simply want to introduce you to companies doing their best to operate in an earth-friendly manner.

We all know the rules of Eco-friendly buying. No purchase is better than a purchase. Buying used is better than buying new. And we try to differentiate between needs and wants.

When we've decided to make a purchase, there's another aspect to consider. Our purchases tell manufacturers what we want. They respond by filling the shelves with those items. We have the power to determine both the kinds of products which are manufactured and the types of companies manufacturing them.

So ask yourself ... do you want Eco-friendly products manufactured by companies doing their best to tread lightly on the earth and treat employees fairly, or will you settle for mass-produced items manufactured by companies who care more about their "bottom line" than the earth?

The choice is ours.

I believe strongly in supporting "green" purchases. To that end, I've been inviting Eco-friendly companies to offer you a discount on their products and services. These are people who are trying to make a living in a way which will not hurt the earth.

I'd like to introduce them to you. Even if you don't make the decision to purchase, I hope you'll visit their sites and support their efforts. If you do wish to patronize them, please click over to the Special Offers Page to take advantage of their generous discounts.

Oz Fair Trade Pty Ltd

Oz Fair Trade Pty Ltd

All Eco-friendly products in this shop are also fair trade. In addition, all profits support artisans. You'll find bottle openers, spoons, greeting cards, scarves, satchels, and so much more. They are offering you 15% off anything in their Eco-friendly product range. Offer expires on April 30, 2014.

Ecoenstyle

Ecoenstyle

Whether you're looking for an elegant dress, a "hoodie", or shoes, you'll find beautiful items in this store. Everything is earth-friendly and made from materials such as bamboo, organic cotton, and vegan "leather". Get a 15% discount on anything in their shop until April 30, 2014.

La Alicia

La Alicia

Imagine scrap paper being turned into beautiful accessories. Browse this shop for earrings, purses, garlands, bookmarks, and more. Until April 22, 2014, you'll get a free Eco Chic Mystery Goodie Grab Bag (a minimum value of $20) with every purchase of $50 or more.

Eco Natural Soap

Eco Natural Soap

I love this shop and have been using their products for awhile. You'll find body care products including soap, shampoo, skin moisturizers, lip balms and even products designed to relieve arthritis joint pain. From now until April 11, 2014, take advantage of 15% off any order of $10 or more.

Violet's Buds

Violet's Buds

Have a wedding coming up and need something for the bride's hair? How about a headband to keep your hair in place. Maybe your interested in hoop art or Kanzashi Flowers. This shop has amazing accessories. Get a 20% discount on any purchase in the shop until May 30, 2014.

PERI pure eco rag industry

PERI

Finding Eco-friendly clothing, made from fabrics which are organic, biodegradable and recyclable, is tough. This shop makes your search easier. You'll find beautiful tops, dresses, men's clothing, and accessories. Get 40% off any purchase until April 15, 2014.

doTERRA

doTERRA

Essential oils have so many applications in a "green" home. Some have antibacterial properties making them great for cleaning. Others can help keep us healthy by boosting our immune systems. Find quality products in this shop and get a free sample when you join the team.

Paloma Pottery

Paloma Pottery

Dinnerware, stepping stones, coasters, and soap dishes. Those are just a few of the earth-friendly products you'll find in this shop. Each beautiful piece is made from recycled glass. They are offering you 15% off your entire order until May 30, 2014.

La Francesca Eco-Resort

La Francesca Eco-Resort

Imagine a vacation, in a beautiful area, which doesn't hurt the earth. This Italian resort, located on the Cinque Terre Sea, might be the perfect destination for your next getaway. Get a 5-15% discount (based on the time of year) until December 31, 2014.



I hope that you enjoyed meeting these companies. Click over to their sites and let them know that you appreciate their efforts. And then, when you're ready to make a purchase, visit the Special Offers Page for information on how to get your discount.

Our purchases have power! Support the earth with your dollar!


Sneak Peek: Join us on Monday when we'll be talking about Vegan nutrition.

Review - Uncommon Goods

Are you prepared for holiday gift giving? While I don't like to hurry the season, the fact is that Christmas is less than two months away. Finding earth-friendly products which are made locally (or at the very least in the same country), and are sold by a responsible company, takes time and effort. Luckily, Uncommon Goods make it a bit easier for us by offering a wide range of unique gifts.

Before I tell you about the product I tested, let me tell you a bit about the company. Most of the products they carry are made in the United States. Approximately one third are made using recycled and/or upcycled materials. About half of their products are handmade.

It is, however, their commitment to the earth and their dedication to humanity which I find most impressive.

As with any corporation, they are interested in profit. But unlike other corporations, Uncommon Goods also consider society and the environment in their decision making process. For example, employees are paid a living wage and all full-time workers are offered health insurance (most part-time workers receive it as well). Each business practice is tempered by the goal to create harmony with the environment. They do nothing which causes harm to either people or animals and refuse, therefore, to sell products containing leather, feathers or fur. In addition to meeting the comprehensive requirements of a B Corporation, they have created "Better to Give", a program which donates $1 from every sale to the purchaser's non-profit of choice.

A company's ethics are definitely important but so are their products. As I browsed the Uncommon Goods website, I found interesting gifts ... items which I've never seen anywhere else. For example, from their recycled products, I was sent a set of Man Coasters:

These sturdy coasters are made from salvaged granite slab counter-tops and recycled rubber. Each one is distinct in pattern and color. Handmade by artists Arra David and Anne Johnson in New Hampshire, the coasters are guaranteed for life.

How do they perform? BRILLIANTLY! I keep a glass of water or iced tea next to my computer as I work throughout the day. Typical coasters stick to the bottom of the glass or fail to deal with condensation (don't you hate it when you lift a glass and it's drips on everything). Man Coasters, measuring 4" squared x 1.25" thick, are designed not to stick to the glass and they magically wick away condensation. They truly are the best coasters I've ever used.

How do they look? When I saw them on the website, I was worried that they would be a little too "manly". But I have to say that I love how they look on my coffee table. The granite is beautiful and the rubber case enhances the intricacies of the stone. The coaster size is also a benefit ... no one will misunderstand its use or have to look very hard to find one.

I recommend Uncommon Goods. You'll find bed and bath products, jewelry and accessories, and gifts for the person who has everything ... like this unusual item. You'll also shop with the knowledge that you are supporting an ethical company, one which respects the earth and all who call it home.

So, relax ... Christmas may be less than two months away but this company has you covered.



I received a set of Man Coasters in order to write this review. I received no other compensation. All opinions expressed are mine and mine alone and reflect my honest opinion of the material reviewed.

Review - SunRocket Portable Solar Hot Water Kettle and Thermos

Look at this:

Looks like a rocket, right? It's not!

Introducing the SunRocket Portable Solar Hot Water Kettle and Thermos.

This is one of the coolest products that I've ever used. It arrived on a cloudy day and, since the forecast didn't look promising for a week or so, I decided to try it out ... after all, if it could work when the skies are Gray, it would have no problem with full sunshine. So I opened the lid and filled it with cold water (it holds 500ml/17oz). The inside of the kettle is red, rather like looking into the center of a volcano. To give me a baseline of activity, I checked the temperature of the water ... it was 73.9°F (approximately 23.28°C).

Next, I opened up the solar panels and placed it in the brightest spot I could find with the panels facing the sun ... or about where I thought the sun might be if the clouds weren't restricting my view.

I waited an hour and tested the water temperature again. This time it was 86.3°F (approximately 30.17°C). Not bad on a less-than-desirable day.

After another hour, I checked again: 117.8°F (approximately 47.67°C). Definitely hot enough for washing dishes or one's hands/face, having a warm cup of instant soup or coffee or dehydrating vegetables/fruits for cooking. It wasn't hot but impressively warm considering I didn't have any sunshine.

The instructions state that, after heating, closing the solar doors will turn the kettle into a thermos, keeping the contents warm for hours. So I closed the panels, waited an hour and a half and checked the temperature again ... 110.8°F (approximately 43.67°C). Nice heat rentention!

Let's take a closer look at this marvel:

This unit weighs in at 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg) and measures 17.7 x 4.2 x 4.2 inches (45 x 12 x 12 cm). It is BPA free and the high-grade glass means that water tastes like water ... no weird flavors. Since temperatures can get well above boiling, the kettle includes a pressure-release valve making it safe to use. The only cautionary statements that I could find on either SunRocket's website or the package is that the contents can become very hot so users need to demonstrate care when opening the unit and pouring out the liquid.

How would one use the solar kettle?

I can think of many uses ... while camping, hiking, picnicking or boating to warm water for coffee, hot chocolate, soup, or washing up (how many times have you had to wash up with cold water ... burrrrr). Perhaps carry it to a sporting event (think winter Football games) when a nice hot drink would be welcome.

It's also perfect as part of an emergency kit, for those times when your power fails or when your drinking water is contaminated ... yes, it pasteurizes water killing Giardia, Cyrptosporidium and other water-borne bacteria.

At home one could save energy by using it to warm water for an afternoon cup of tea or for washing dishes. And, it would make a wonderful gift for anyone on your list.

The SunRocket Solar Hot Water Kettle is a great product ... it's lightweight, convenient and provides hot water ... all with energy from the sun.


I received a SunRocket Solar Kettle & Thermos in order to write this review. I received no other compensation. All opinions expressed are mine and mine alone and reflect my honest opinion of the product reviewed.

Images courtesy of the SunRocket site.

This post was included in the Dude, Sustainable! Blog Hop!