Eco-friendly essentials for August: from low-waste swaps to sustainable fashion, shop our curated favorites to live consciously and stylishly.

Why August Is the Ideal Time for a Sustainable Reset

As summer slowly fades and we transition into back-to-school schedules, cooler evenings, and renewed routines, August presents a natural pause—an invitation to reassess how we live, what we consume, and how aligned our habits are with our values. It’s a perfect moment to check in with yourself: Are your daily choices supporting the kind of world you want to live in?

Whether you're curating a more ethical wardrobe, clearing space in your home for clarity and calm, or simply finding small ways to reduce waste and stress, this is a great time to refresh your lifestyle with purpose. These intentional changes don’t have to be overwhelming—in fact, they can be deeply grounding.

At The Green Muse, we’ve gathered our favorite mindful picks for the month—eco-friendly swaps, low-waste favorites, and sustainable style pieces that make it easy (and exciting!) to live with intention. Every item we feature is from a brand that walks the walk: ethically made, sustainably produced, and committed to doing better for people, animals, and the planet.

Top Picks for August

1. Ambayce: Linen Button-Downs & Sustainable Everyday Staples

Why we love it:
Effortlessly chic and rooted in conscious craftsmanship, Ambayce has become one of our favorite go-to brands for sustainable closet essentials. Their linen button-downs are a standout—lightweight, breathable, and versatile enough to dress up or down. Whether you're layering for a late summer evening or embracing a minimalist aesthetic, these pieces make everyday wear feel elevated without compromising on comfort or ethics.

Photo courtesy of Holding Court. This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend brands we truly believe in.

Ambayce focuses on eco-friendly materials like linen and organic cotton, which not only reduce environmental impact but also feel better against your skin. Each item is curated with intention, reflecting the brand’s commitment to slow fashion and low-waste production. Their collections are ideal for anyone building a sustainable capsule wardrobe—where longevity, quality, and style coexist.

🌿 Wellness bonus: Ambayce doesn’t stop at clothing. Their Soulistic Root Relaxation Essentials Gift Set is one of our favorite discoveries this year—a calming collection of self-care goodies perfect for easing stress, encouraging mindfulness, and making your home feel like a spa. It’s the perfect pick-me-up for the end-of-summer slump.
Shop Ambayce: ambayce.com

2. Dropps Laundry Detergent Pods

Why We Love It:
Dropps has become a cult favorite in the eco-conscious community—and for good reason. These plastic-free laundry detergent pods are a powerhouse when it comes to cleaning performance. They dissolve completely in hot or cold water, leaving clothes fresh and clean without the harsh chemicals found in conventional detergents. Whether you’re washing everyday basics or delicate fabrics, Dropps is gentle on sensitive skin and tough on stains, making it a win for both people and the planet.

Photo courtesy of Dropps. This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend brands we truly believe in.

Made in the USA and shipped in compostable cardboard packaging, Dropps eliminates the need for bulky plastic jugs and reduces your household’s carbon footprint. Plus, the brand is Leaping Bunny certified cruelty-free, which means no animal testing—ever.

Reader-Friendly Green Tip:
To make your laundry routine even more sustainable, pair your Dropps pods with a reusable mesh garment bag. It’s an easy way to extend the life of your clothes by reducing friction and preventing wear and tear during the wash cycle—especially for items like bras, workout gear, or delicate knits.
Best For:
• Sensitive skin
• Plastic-free households
• Front-load and top-load machines
• Families looking for an easy eco-switch
Shop Dropps: https://dropps.com

3. Earth Hero Reusable Produce Bags

Why We Love It:
Say goodbye to flimsy, single-use plastic produce bags and hello to a sustainable, long-lasting solution. Earth Hero’s reusable produce bags are a game-changer for eco-conscious grocery runs. Made with breathable, lightweight mesh or organic cotton, these bags keep your fruits and veggies fresh without contributing to plastic pollution. They’re machine washable, easy to store, and built to last—making them a smart swap for anyone looking to reduce their waste without sacrificing convenience.

Sustainability Bonus:
Earth Hero goes beyond just offering planet-friendly products. They offset the carbon footprint of every shipment, meaning your eco-friendly purchase arrives guilt-free. It’s part of their commitment to climate responsibility, transparency, and doing better for the Earth at every step of the shopping experience.
Where to Shop:
You can find these reusable produce bags (and more thoughtful swaps) directly at Earth Hero:
🔗 Shop Earth Hero

Photo courtesy of ZWS Essentials. This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend brands we truly believe in.

4. VIVAIA Square-Toe Flats

Why We Love It:
When it comes to merging sustainability with everyday elegance, VIVAIA’s square-toe flats check all the boxes. Crafted from recycled plastic water bottles, these stylish shoes not only help reduce waste but also offer impressive durability and breathability. The knit upper contours to your feet for a snug-yet-flexible fit, while the cushioned insole provides long-lasting support—perfect for walking, commuting, or just running errands around town. They’re machine-washable, vegan, and thoughtfully designed to transition seamlessly from workwear to weekend wear.

Photo courtesy of VIVAIA. This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend brands we truly believe in.

Sustainability Spotlight:
Each pair of VIVAIA flats repurposes approximately six plastic bottles, turning pollution into a purposeful, wearable solution. Their zero-waste 3D knitting technology ensures minimal material waste during production, aligning with circular fashion principles.
Style Tip:
Pair these classic flats with a flowy midi skirt and a fitted tank for a breezy summer look, or elevate your favorite wide-leg linen pants with these sleek, structured shoes. The square-toe design adds a subtle edge that works beautifully in both casual and dressy settings.
Perfect For:
Conscious consumers who want stylish, everyday shoes that don’t compromise on comfort, ethics, or aesthetic appeal. Whether you're traveling, working remotely, or heading to a brunch date, VIVAIA flats are versatile enough to keep up with your lifestyle.
Where to Buy:
Shop VIVAIA Flats

5. Mountain Rose Herbs Organic Lavender Hydrosol

Why We Love It:
This organic Lavandin hydrosol from Mountain Rose Herbs is a sustainable self-care essential. Distilled from certified organic lavender flowers, it offers a gentle, alcohol-free way to enjoy the calming benefits of lavender in your daily routine. The soothing floral scent instantly promotes relaxation, making it a perfect addition to your wellness rituals. Whether you're looking to wind down after a stressful day or freshen up your space, this versatile mist does it all.

Ways to Use It:

Natural Toner: Gentle on sensitive skin and balancing for all skin types, this hydrosol makes an excellent facial toner—especially for those seeking clean, plant-based skincare.
Aromatherapy Support: Spritz it onto your pillow or sheets before bed to encourage a peaceful night’s rest.
Post-Workout or Yoga: A few sprays on your body or yoga mat can help cool, cleanse, and calm your senses after movement.
Air & Linen Refresher: Use it as a non-toxic alternative to chemical-laden room sprays.

Self-Care Ritual Tip:
Store your Lavandin hydrosol in the fridge and spritz it midday for a cooling, spa-like facial mist—especially helpful during summer or while working from home. It’s a quick, grounding pause that reconnects you to the present moment.

Photo courtesy of Mountain Rose Herbs. This post contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. We only recommend brands we truly believe in.

Sustainability Bonus:
Mountain Rose Herbs is committed to organic farming, ethical sourcing, and eco-friendly packaging—making this hydrosol a conscious choice for your beauty routine.

Shop Organic Lavandin Hydrosol:
🔗 mountainroseherbs.com

Download This Month’s Freebie

📥 “5 Days of Mindful Swaps” Mini Challenge

Ready to make sustainable living feel doable (and fun)? This free printable guide walks you through five simple, low-impact swaps—one for each day of the workweek.

What’s inside:

📝 Daily prompts to reflect on your habits
🌱 One mindful swap per day (with product suggestions)
💚 Links to ethical brands we use and love

Whether you're just starting your eco journey or looking to reset your habits this month, this mini challenge is designed to help you take action—one mindful choice at a time.

👉 Download the Freebie Now and start your 5-day challenge today!

Sustainable living isn’t about being perfect—it’s about making intentional progress. Every time you choose a reusable product over a single-use one, support a transparent and ethical brand, or even just pause to consider a more eco-friendly option, you’re helping shift the system. These small decisions add up. They create momentum. And over time, they lead to real, measurable change for our planet, animals, and communities.

Let August be your gentle nudge—a seasonal reset to remind you that conscious living is a journey, not a destination. Whether you're refreshing your wardrobe, your mindset, or your daily habits, know that your efforts matter.

We’ll be back next month with a fresh batch of sustainable favorites curated with care. In the meantime, join us on Pinterest and Instagram to see these eco swaps in action, discover daily tips, and stay inspired to keep living with purpose.

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