Travelling can be an exciting experience, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when it comes to packing. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about TSA requirements for health and beauty products in hand luggage in order to help you comply with these regulations.

The 3-1-1 Rule

The most important rule to remember is the 3-1-1 rule. This rule states that all liquids, aerosols, and gels that you bring in your carry-on luggage must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. All of these containers must be placed in one single, clear, plastic, quart-sized bag, and each passenger is only allowed one bag. This bag must be placed in a bin or on the conveyor belt during screening.

Travel-sized toiletries 

Many personal care and grooming products such as toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and moisturizers come in travel-sized containers that meet the TSA’s regulations. 

Pro tip: Roll-on perfumes are a convenient alternative to traditional spray perfumes. They come in small containers that are easy to pack and do not take up much space in your luggage.

Davids travel-sized toothpaste. 

Solid toiletries

Solid toiletries are a great option for travel since they are not considered liquids or gels. Products like solid shampoo bars, solid deodorants, and solid perfumes are great alternatives to traditional liquid products whenever you’re traveling.

Try our solid shampoo and conditioner! 

Powder products

Lastly, powder products like dry shampoo, face powder, and talc are allowed in your carry-on and do not have to be in your plastic bag. These products are easy to use and come in small containers that are perfect for travel.

Nix powder mouthwash. 

By bringing these travel-sized or travel-friendly products, you can save space in your luggage and avoid any issues with TSA requirements. Always remember to double-check the sizes of your products to make sure they comply with the TSA’s regulations.
At Not to Die For* we have tons of options for you to take in your carry-on bag. We even have a specil traveler kit! Check out our eco-friendly and vegan shop, where you can get all the personal care items you need.

When it comes to Mother’s Day, there are many reasons why you might choose to give your mom an eco-friendly present. Perhaps she has expressed a newfound interest in environmentalism, or maybe you want to align your gift with your own values and morals. Whatever the reason, choosing ethical gifts for mother’s day is a great way to show her that you care about her and the planet! Here are some ideas for you to consider:

Reusable Makeup Remover Pads

Disposable makeup pads are a significant source of waste in the beauty industry. By giving your mom a set of reusable bamboo makeup pads, you’ll be helping to reduce the amount of waste she produces. These pads are gentle on the skin and can be washed and reused multiple times.

Reusable makeup remover pads.

Natural Deodorant

Many traditional deodorants contain harmful chemicals like aluminum and parabens. Look for options made with natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and essential oils.

Long Wknd natural deodorant. 

Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle is a great gift for any mom who is always on the go. Not only will it help her stay hydrated throughout the day, but it will also reduce ther plastic waste (and let’s be honest, they’re also incredibly cute). Stainless steel bottles are also great at keeping your beverages cold —or warm— while you’re out in the street.

Bambaw Stainless Steel bottle. 

Shampoo Bar

Shampoo bars are a great eco-friendly alternative to traditional liquid shampoos. They are packaging-free, long-lasting, and made from natural ingredients. It’s also very common to use more liquid shampoo than needed —most people don’t know how much shampoo to use for their hair length. With shampoo bars, it’s a lot easier to control the amount of product you use, which makes them last longer and waste less. 

Revival Shampoo Bar – Pure. 

Bamboo Hairbrush

Bamboo hairbrushes are a great eco-friendly alternative to plastic hairbrushes. They are gentle on the scalp and can help with frizzy hair, since bamboo repels static. They are also naturally antibacterial!

Our very own Ntdf.* bamboo hairbrush (and wide-tooth comb!). 

Natural Spa Bundle

Many personal care products contain harmful chemicals that can be damaging to both our bodies and the environment. Consider gifting your mom some all-natural spa products that are free from harmful ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. 

Our very own Natural Experience Selection bundle. 

Sustainable Jewelry

If your mom loves jewelry, consider gifting her a piece that is made from sustainable materials. This could include jewelry made from recycled metals, ethically-sourced gemstones, or even eco-friendly materials like bamboo or recycled plastic. By choosing sustainable jewelry, you’ll be helping to support artisans who are committed to reducing their environmental impact.

Necklace by Sweetest Tangerine, an independent brand that incorporates dried flowers, leaves, and other natural items into their jewelry design. 

Zero Waste Starter Kit

If your mom is interested in reducing her waste, consider gifting her a zero waste starter kit. This could include items like reusable produce bags, stainless steel straws, and a reusable coffee cup. Not only will this gift help your mom reduce her waste, but it will also show her that you support her eco-friendly lifestyle.

As you can see, there are many eco-friendly gifts that you can give your mom for Mother’s Day. By choosing these products, you’ll be helping her to reduce her environmental impact while also showing her that you care about her well-being. Let us know if you had any other gift ideas that we didn’t mention! 

Spring cleaning is a great way to refresh your home and give it a thorough cleaning after a long winter. However, traditional cleaning methods can be harmful to the environment, with harsh chemicals and wasteful products. In this blog post, we’ll explore some eco-friendly spring cleaning tips that can help you clean your home while reducing your impact on the environment.

Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

One of the best ways to make your spring cleaning a little greener is to switch to cleaning products that that are biodegradable and free of harsh chemicals. We all know how many loads of laundry we have to do when we’re spring cleaning, so we recommend using eco-friendly laundry detergent sheets and softener.

MamaP laundry detergent sheets. 

BONUS TIP: Do you want to make your laundry cruelty-free? We recommend using bamboo fiber dryer balls instead of wool ones! 

Refillable Cleaning Supplies

Another way to reduce waste when spring cleaning is to use refillable cleaning supplies. Instead of using disposable cleaning wipes or paper towels, opt for a reusable cleaning cloth or rag. You can also use a refillable spray bottle and fill it with an eco-friendly cleaning solution from companies like Blueland. They not only reduce waste, but also save you money in the long run.

Repurpose old items

Before throwing away old items, consider repurposing them for cleaning. For example, old t-shirts can be cut up and used as cleaning rags, or old toothbrushes can be used to clean small crevices. Rags are a great alternative to disposable cleaning wipes and paper towels and can be washed and reused multiple times. 

Use natural air fresheners

Instead of using chemical air fresheners, consider using natural alternatives such as essential oils, beeswax candles, or potpourri made from dried herbs and flowers.

Lemon essential oil. 

Donate Unwanted Items

Spring cleaning is a great time to declutter your home and get rid of unwanted items. Instead of throwing them away, consider donating them to a local charity or thrift store. Donating unwanted items not only helps the environment by keeping items out of landfills, but it also helps people in need. Here’s a list of places (aside from Goodwill) where you can donate clothes and objects. 

Properly dispose of hazardous waste

If you have hazardous waste such as batteries, electronics, or cleaning products, be sure to dispose of them properly. Look for local recycling centers or hazardous waste disposal sites to ensure these items are disposed of safely and responsibly. 

As you can see, spring cleaning doesn’t have to be harmful to the environment. At Ntdf.* we want to make cruelty-free and eco-friendly products easily accessible to everyone. By just making a few adjustments you can reduce your impact on the environment while still enjoying a clean and fresh home! 

As consumers, we have the power to make a difference in the environment by making small changes to our daily routines. One way we can do this is by making our grocery shopping more sustainable. Here are some simple tips to help reduce our environmental impact while shopping for groceries:

Bring your own bags

Tote bags are great alternatives to single-use plastic bags. They are not only more durable, but also more eco-friendly. By bringing your own bags to the store, you can help reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills or in the ocean. 

Our Ntdf.* Lona tote bag. 

Choose products with minimal packaging

When shopping, try to choose products with minimal packaging. Look for products with recyclable packaging or those packaged in materials like glass or paper, which are easier to recycle. Additionally, consider buying in bulk when possible to reduce the amount of packaging needed.

Use reusable produce bags

Reusable produce bags made from materials like mesh or cotton are a great way to reduce plastic waste. Instead of using the thin plastic bags provided at the store, bring your own reusable bags for produce like fruits and vegetables.

Get your own mesh grocery bags! 

Shop locally and seasonally

Shopping for produce that is grown locally and in season not only supports local farmers, but also helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Locally-grown produce is also likely to have a smaller environmental impact than produce that has been shipped from far away. Here’s a handy tool to help you find your closest farmers market. Just type in your zip code!

Take your bike instead of your car 

Biking to the grocery store is not only good for the environment, but it’s also a great way to get exercise and save money on gas. Investing in a good bike and gear is important to make your bike trip to the grocery store more comfortable and efficient. Look for a bike with a rack or basket for carrying your groceries.

Bring your own containers

When buying items like bulk nuts, grains, or spices, consider bringing your own reusable containers. Mason jars, cloth bags, or other reusable containers can be used to store these items and avoid the need for single-use plastic bags or containers.

Reduce food waste

Lastly, reducing food waste is another way to make grocery shopping more sustainable. Plan meals in advance and only buy what you need. Store food properly to extend its shelf life, and use leftovers in creative ways to avoid throwing them away.

By making small changes to our grocery shopping habits, we can reduce our impact on the environment and help create a more sustainable future. At Not To Die For* we want to make it easier to shop for eco-friendly and cruelty-free items. Check out our shop!

Is 2023 the year you start your low-waste or sustainable lifestyle journey? The bathroom is a great place to start! The personal hygiene products in your bathroom are a large source of waste, with toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash, and floss being no exception. Here is our guide to help make your oral health routine an eco-friendly one. 

Choosing Your Toothbrush

You may be wondering what is so wasteful about a standard toothbrush, since it gets used over and over. Though it is reusable for a while, when it comes to disposing of your old toothbrush, they are a complex item. “Regular toothbrushes are hard to recycle because they are made from many components, including plastics derived from crude oil, rubber and a mix of plastic and other agents,” says Dr. Nammy Patel, DDS. “It takes the plastic toothbrush over 400 years to decompose.”

An electric toothbrush where you only replace the head every so often may seem like a better option. However, they are often made out of plastic and the electrical components of the toothbrush are powered by nonrenewable sources. The eco-friendly electric toothbrush market is improving, and there are several sustainable options if you do prefer an electric toothbrush.

If you favor a regular toothbrush over electric for your pearly whites, bamboo toothbrushes are a great alternative to plastic due to their biodegradable and compostable qualities (and the simple aesthetic is an added plus). 

A Mouthwash That Agrees with Mother Nature

It’s time we opt out of the commercial mouthwashes that are toxic for the planet and our health. Not only does mouthwash typically come in a massive plastic container, (that takes up the entire bathroom countertop), but have you ever read the ingredients on the back? There’s a good chance you cannot pronounce the majority of these toxic additives.  

The ingredients in mouthwash such as chlorhexidine gluconate, ethanol (ethyl alcohol), hydrogen peroxide, and methyl salicylate kill bacteria in the mouth and add flavor to the product, but can be harmful in large amounts when entered into your bloodstream. You are swishing these toxins around in not only your mouth, but also washing them down the drain to be released into waterways, harming marine and wildlife. 

Nix Mouthwash is a gentle, yet effective mouthwash made with natural ingredients and no artificial flavors. Instead of shipping a large plastic container filled with mouthwash, Nix Mouthwash crystals arrive in a small glass jar, shipped in 100% recycled packaging. Simply use the bamboo scoop to add mouthwash crystals into your own container, fill with water, and shake. Voilà – fresh breath without the toxic ingredients or plastic! 

The Small but Mighty Impact of Floss

As small of a product it is, floss has a high environmental impact as it is non-biodegradable and non-recyclable. Floss is typically made of a nylon, a petroleum-based plastic, that is coated in wax. Even though nylon is recyclable, floss is too small to go through the typical recycling process, so instead it sits in the landfill for 50-80 years before it decomposes. The same goes for floss picks, due to their mixed-material nature. 

A vegan, cruelty-free, zero waste option is our bamboo floss. The product comes in a small glass jar, while the floss is made from bamboo fiber that contains activated charcoal, organic tea tree oil, and organic peppermint oil. It’s compostable, too!

Any zero-waste, plastic free, or biodegradable floss product is a great alternative to traditional plastic and nylon floss (bonus points if you can purchase refills!). Another option is a water flosser, (also termed oral irrigator), which is a reusable, electronic oral health tool that uses a high pressure jet stream to “floss” your teeth. 

Toothpaste Minus the Tube & Toxins

Did you know that 1.5 billion toothpaste tubes are thrown away and end up in a landfill each year? 

Toothpaste is obviously an essential for a clean, healthy mouth, but we can certainly do without the plastic packaging. Sustainable alternatives on the market include toothpaste tablets, chews, or powders. If you’re not so sure about tabs or powders to freshen your mouth, aim for a toothpaste product that is packaged in a reusable glass jar or recyclable aluminum container such as David’s Premium Natural Toothpaste.

When you are deciding on your sustainable swap, don’t forget to also consider the ingredients in your toothpaste. Safe, non-toxic ingredients in a healthy toothpaste may include:

• Baking soda
• Activated charcoal
• Coconut oil
• Tea tree oil
• Essential oils (peppermint, cinnamon)
• Left extracts

You can also make your own natural toothpaste at home using some of the above ingredients! Check out this simple recipe. 

Whether you have been living a low-waste lifestyle for years or are early in your journey, kudos to you for putting in the effort to make a change. Every bit counts! Making swaps can be overwhelming, so remember to start slow and go at your own pace. You do not need to throw out everything at once, and in fact, you shouldn’t! The most eco-conscious way to swap your oral health items is to first use up your existing products to prevent additional waste. 

We recommend speaking to your dental professional prior to making changes in your oral care routine. Looking for an eco-conscious dentist that aligns with your lifestyle? Find dentists who are part of the Eco-Dentistry Association here. 

If you’re looking for the perfect gift for a friend who wants to bring an eco-conscious lifestyle into their home, we’ve got you covered. Here are 11 unique eco-friendly gift ideas that are perfect for any holiday celebration (or just because!). 

Makeup Remover Pads

Apart from the obvious environmental reasons, makeup remover pads are also great for sensitive skin types! Makeup wipes can be very harsh on your skin because they have a high alcohol content and you have to rub them violently to get the makeup off. 

Food Composter

Organic waste can be easily turned into compost for your garden or houseplants! It’s a great way to reduce the waste in landfills, it’s easy to use and will save you money on fertilizer. Composters block odors and can be used indoors!

Cleaning Supplies with Refills

If you love your reusable cleaners, why not gift them? It’s great for the environment, and it’ll keep them from buying more plastic bottles. Blueland is a great option to get cleaning products with easy tablet refills. 

Zero-waste makeup 

“Makeup hoarding” has become an issue, with people buying tons and tons of useless plastic with their palettes and lipsticks. However, there’s a new trend that’s coming up: zero-waste makeup! Yes, you hear correctly. Brands like River Organics use cardboard packaging for their highlighters, blushes, and lip balms. 

Reusable “Paper” Towels

Instead of using disposable paper towels, try switching to reusable ones! These “Unpaper” towels are a great option 

Tote Bag

Tote bags are the best way to avoid single use plastics, since they replace grocery store shopping bags. These bags aren’t only bad because they end up in landfills, they are especially dangerous to marine wildlife —sea turtles ingest them by mistake. 

Silicone Baking Mat

If your eco-conscious friend loves baking, consider getting them a silicone baking mat! They are a great way to avoid single use parchment paper. 

Reusable storage bags

These reusable storage bags are perfect for anyone who wants to reduce waste in their life. They come in a variety of sizes so you can use them for anything from packing lunches on the go to storing leftover food for later use at home.

Vegan Spa Kit

If your friend is in need of some relaxation and some time to lay back, you can get them a bundle with zero-waste vegan goodies!

Do you have any other eco-friendly gift ideas that you’d like to share with us? Let us know in the comments below! 

Not to Die For* is a curated vegan and eco-conscious marketplace. We strive to make ethical shopping easier, especially during holiday seasons, by offering products that are good for you, the animals, and the planet. You can find our selection of gifts over here! 

So you’ve gotten a brand new shampoo bar (or maybe someone got it for you), but you don’t know how to even begin to use it? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there! It’s always hard to incorporate a new item to your self-care routine. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using your shampoo bar: 

1. Wet your hair with warm water. 

2. Get your shampoo bar slightly wet and apply it directly to your scalp, rubbing in a circular motion for about 30 seconds.

3. Massage the shampoo into your scalp and hair.

4. Rinse thoroughly with warm water until all of the shampoo is gone from your hair and scalp, then repeat this step if needed.

5. Follow up with conditioner if desired (we recommend doing so!).

6. Let the bar dry completely before storing it away for travel—otherwise it will get mushy and unusable. 

But why are shampoo bars better than regular shampoo? 

Shampoo bars have been gaining popularity in recent years, since they are more practical, more environmentally friendly, and better for your hair. Here are some reasons why we love shampoo bars: 

• They are great for traveling. Shampoo bottles can be bulky and hard to manage when you’re on the go, and liquids are tricky to take on planes. Shampoo bars are easy to carry around in your bag, so they’re perfect for taking on vacation or just going out for a day trip.

• Less plastic waste! Plastic bottles are horrible for the environment, but shampoo bars don’t use any plastic at all.

• It’s easier to use more liquid shampoo than you need. With a shampoo bar, there’s no need to squeeze out any extra product—just wet your hair and rub the bar over it to get all the lather you need.

• Our shampoo bars are free of sulfates and other chemicals that might strip your hair. This means that they won’t damage your hair or make it less healthy-looking than before—and they’ll leave your mane smelling amazing too!

At Not to Die For* we want to make mindful living easier, that’s why we created a marketplace where you can find eco-friendly vegan products without having to go on long internet searches or read ingredient lists. We read labels so you don’t have to!