5 Best Eco Friendly Slippers 2023 - The Coziest Sustainable House Shoes
/Are you looking for a pair of eco-friendly slippers?
Working from home means that I spend most of my day indoors, so I know only too well the importance of wearing warm and comfortable footwear.
But I’m also always trying to find ways to reduce my carbon footprint (if you pardon the pun), so investing in a pair of sustainable slippers is important to me, as I imagine it is to you too.
In this blog post, I’ll be sharing my top 5 best eco-friendly slippers. All of my picks are based on the design of the shoe, comfort, and how eco-conscious it was manufactured.
Benefits of using sustainable slippers
Sustainable slippers are the perfect blend of comfort and eco-friendliness. These slippers are made using materials that have been responsibly sourced, such as organic cotton, recycled wool, and natural rubber.
There are several benefits to using sustainable slippers:
Their materials are renewable and biodegradable, which means that they can be broken down by natural processes without harming the environment - rather than them taking up space in landfill. Plus,
Sustainable slippers are made using eco-friendly manufacturing processes that reduce energy consumption.
Sustainable slippers are often made using fair trade practices, which means that the workers who produce them are paid a fair wage and work in safe conditions.
Eco-friendly slippers are typically more comfortable than traditional slippers. This is because their natural materials are breathable and moisture-wicking, which helps to regulate temperature and keep feet dry. This can help prevent foot odor and discomfort.
Sustainable slippers are a stylish and trendy accessory that can be worn with a variety of outfits. Whether you're lounging at home or running errands, sustainable slippers can add a touch of comfort and eco-friendliness to your daily routine.
At A Glance: The Best Eco Friendly Slippers
Short on time? Here’s a quick list of my top sustainable slippers. Keep on reading for a full, detailed breakdown of each.
• Acorn Algae-Infused Recycled Parker Hoodback Slipper: Sustainably crafted from recycled materials and algae-infused soles, offering exceptional comfort and support.
• Kyrgies Tengries - Wool House Shoes: Handmade using traditional Kyrgyz techniques, these eco-friendly wool house shoes provide warmth, breathability, and a natural connection to cultural heritage.
• Nootkas Felted Merino Wool 'Astoria' Mule House Slipper: Ethically sourced and hand-felted Merino wool ensures luxurious comfort and insulation, with eco-conscious production that supports environmental conservation.
• BureBure Slippers Natural Wool Cocoon: Handcrafted from organic, undyed wool, these slippers provide natural warmth and temperature regulation, and their biodegradable construction contributes to a greener planet.
• HAFLINGER Gz Classic Grizzly Slippers: These slippers feature a cork-latex footbed and natural wool upper for maximum breathability and arch support, while promoting sustainability through their eco-friendly manufacturing process.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Sustainable Slippers
With their eco-credentials in materials and manufacturing a given, here are some more factors to consider when buying sustainable slippers.
Durability: Sustainable slippers should be built to last, so you don't need to replace them often. Look for slippers made from high-quality materials that can withstand daily wear and tear.
Comfort: Look for options that offer good support and cushioning for maximum coziness in and around the home.
Cost: Sustainable slippers can often be more expensive than traditional slippers, so consider your budget when shopping around. Look for options that offer good value for the price.
Size and fit: Make sure to choose slippers that fit your feet comfortably and securely. Look for brands that offer a range of sizes and widths to ensure a good fit.
5 Best Eco-Friendly Slippers: A Detailed Guide
Let’s get down to the nitty gritty, with a complete look at my most highly sustainable slippers, based on materials, cost, looks, and customer feedback.
Acorn Algae-Infused Recycled Parker Hoodback Slipper
If you're looking for eco-friendly slippers that are comfortable and versatile, the Acorn Algae-Infused Recycled Parker Hoodback Slipper might be the perfect fit for you.
Available in sizes Small, Medium, Large, and Extra-Large, these slippers come in two colors: Men's in black and Women's in Ash grey.
The uppers are made from faux wool, the slippers themselves are made from 100% rubber, and they feature a soft Berber lining - all to keep you feeling cozy and comfortable.
One of the standout sustainable features of these slippers is their Algae Bloom Sole, which reuses harmful Algae Biomass harvested from water sources through a partnership with Bloom.
The innovative Bloom Algae Foam used in the slippers' versatile indoor/outdoor sole contains 45% renewable content, which helps to protect freshwater sources used by plants, animals, and humans.
Every pair of slippers means that 25 liters of water and 14 cubic meters of air are cleaned through the reduction of C02.
And these slippers are durable, too. The Algae Bloom outsole travels wherever you do, adding much-needed traction on hardwood surfaces and being tough enough for indoor and outdoor use. Whether you're relaxing around a fireplace or campfire, these slippers can keep up.
Reasons to Buy
Sustainable choice made from recycled materials and infused with algae, which can help reduce environmental impact.
The Parker Hoodback design offers additional support and coverage for the feet.
Features a comfortable and soft fleece lining for added warmth and coziness.
Reasons to Avoid
The hoodback design might not to to everyone’s taste.
What Customers Say
"These are the best house shoes I've ever had. Only problem is that I can't keep my wife from using them. Had to buy her some of her own. If you've got family expect to buy more."
For a perfect pair of eco-friendly home office slippers, Kyrgies Tengries wool house shoes are an excellent option. These stylish slippers are handmade in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, by skilled artisans who work with large sheets of pliable wool felt to create the softest and most comfortable house shoes possible.
Tengries slippers provide warmth in the winter and coolness in the summer, thanks to their moisture-wicking and odor-resistant wool felt material. They are not recommended for outdoor use, but they perform well on carpets and hardwood floors.
Tengries have a leather sole and elastic sewn into the fabric, which allows them to fit snugly to your feet while still being easy to pull on. They are available in five colors, including Charcoal, Navy, Orange, Plum, and Gray, and come in sizes ranging from 5 to 14 (womens) and 7 to 15.5 (mens).
The Tengries shoemaking process uses low-impact, chemical-free dyes, which minimizes the environmental footprint and reduces waste. Additionally, the leather used for the soles is vegetable-tanned, avoiding the use of highly toxic chromium that can pollute waterways.
Kyrgies is committed to sustainability and is Climate Neutral Certified, ensuring that their production process is carbon neutral. Plus, the company is a member of 1% for the Planet movement, in which it donates 1% of annual sales to environmental causes.
Reasons to Buy
Made from natural wool which is biodegradable and renewable, making it a sustainable choice.
Features a handcrafted and unique design that is both stylish and comfortable.
The wool material provides warmth and insulation, making them ideal for colder weather.
Reason to Avoid
The wool material may not be suitable for those with wool allergies or sensitivities.
What Customers Say
"After much research, chose these. Not disappointed. They are comfortable, warm and beautifully made. Enough room to wear a thin sock if needed. Like them so much, I ordered a pair of the Walkabouts. I’d have no issue recommending these to anyone. I am impressed."
If you're looking for eco-friendly slippers to wear while working from home, the Nootkas Felted Merino Wool 'Astoria' Mule House Slipper is a great choice to consider. These slippers are not only soft and cozy, but they are also handmade from responsibly sourced New Zealand wool, making them an excellent option for anyone who wants to reduce their environmental impact.
One of the key features of the Astoria house slipper is its minimalist styling, which gives it a sleek and modern silhouette. The slipper is also warm, breathable and naturally odor-resistant, making it perfect for daily wear.
These slippers come in sizes 5.5 to 11 for women and sizes 8 to 14 for men, providing a comfortable fit for most people. They also come in six different colors: Heather, Oatmeal, Charcoal, Indigo, Toffee, and Bordeaux, making it easy to find a pair that suits your style. Heather Grey and Oatmeal are 100% natural, dye-free wool, while the other colors are gently tinted with non-toxic, AZO-free dye.
The slipper's zero-drop construction is designed to promote better posture and joint alignment, making them a comfortable choice for long hours of wear. Meanwhile, the padded wool mid-sole provides cushioning and light support, while the soft suede outsole provides gentle traction, making them perfect for wood floors.
The slippers are recommended for indoor wear only and are not machine washable, so be sure to spot clean them when needed.
Reasons to Buy
Made from high-quality Merino wool, which is soft, durable, and sustainable.
The mule design allows for easy on and off, making them convenient for indoor use.
The wool material provides insulation and warmth, making them perfect for colder weather.
Reasons to Avoid
The mule design may not provide as much coverage and support as other slipper designs.
What Customers Say
"I had been looking for quiet soft sole slide-on slippers (forever, it seems). And Nootkas slippers are very quiet on hardwood floors. Everyone in the house appreciates that.
But beyond the absence of noise is the absence of discomfort. Hands-down, one of the more comfortable pair of slippers I've ever worn. Merino wool is fantastic in cold and warm weather, and suede soles are the ultimate in natural comfort - not the most support in soles that you *can* get in a pair slippers, but exactly what I was looking for. Like moccasins."
If you're someone who works from home and wants a comfortable, eco-friendly pair of slippers, you might want to consider the BureBure Women Slippers Natural Wool Cocoon. These slippers are made of natural wool, which is healthy, natural, and sustainable. Plus, they're almost weightless, which means you'll hardly feel them on your feet.
One of the key features of these slippers is the insulation of wool fibers, which helps keep your feet cool on hot days and warm on cool days. Natural felted wool also prevents sweating and massages the feet.
Additionally, they come in gray and have rubber soles that provide a good grip, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor wear.
Another great thing about BureBure is their eco-credentials. The felt making process takes place in a family studio and all items are made by hand, using no chemicals, only water and natural olive soap.
Shoes are made to order to reduce waste, and tools and materials are sourced locally. Plus, Burr Burr honor's Earth's resources by reducing waste and ensuring that both work processes and newly bought materials are eco-friendly, cruelty-free, and reusable.
The company even avoids using cardboard boxes and packs their slippers into reusable linen bags instead.
You can choose from three different soles: cork and leather or suede soles that can be worn indoors and outdoors on dry weather, caoutchouc rubber soles that are suitable for both indoor and outdoor wear, and non-slip latex soles that can be worn indoors.
In terms of care, you can freshen up your woolen slippers by shaking them and getting rid of crumbled dirt, clean them with a vacuum cleaner, and leave them to ventilate for a few hours. Alternatively, you can dry clean them or hand wash them in warm water with a small amount of wool cleaning agent. Just be sure not to leave felted slippers with latex soles in direct sunlight.
Reasons to Buy
Handmade from natural wool, making them a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.
The cocoon design offers extra warmth and insulation for the feet.
The wool material is soft, durable, and breathable, providing both comfort and functionality.
Reasons to Avoid
The handmade nature of the product may result in some slight variations in size and design.
What Customers Say
"The slippers are wonderful! They mold nicely to my feet and keep them nice and warm. The stitching details add flare to the sturdy construction. I look forward to them lasting years. (As long as I am diligent in keeping them away from my dog, he’s a chewer.) 😊"
These slippers aren't just comfortable and stylish; they're made by a company that values sustainable materials and designs, and make a great choice for people who work from home and want to treat their feet to a comfortable, supportive, and eco-friendly slipper.
One of the standout features of the Haflinger Gz Classic Grizzly Slippers is the footbed, which is made from a combination of cork and natural latex. This unique design molds and adapts to the shape of your feet, supporting their natural rolling motion and helping to train and revitalize the 107 ligaments and 19 muscles in your feet with every step.
These slippers are also incredibly versatile. Whether you choose the GZ, GZL, or GZH clogs, all wool felt Grizzly clogs come equipped with a non-slip, light rubber outsole that has a significant profile. This feature turns the clogs into indoor/outdoor hybrids, so you can walk across your yard, through the neighborhood, or even around town, and the Haflinger Grizzly clogs will have you covered.
The uppers of these slippers are made of soft, boiled wool felt, keeping your feet at a constant temperature, whether it's warm or cold. The traditional Bavarian trim adds a touch of style, and the low-backed casual clog design makes it easy to slip them on and off. The rounded, roomy toe box and anatomically correct footbed provide unmatched comfort.
The soft wool felt lining inside and on the footbed of these clogs wicks away moisture and maintains a healthy foot environment. The cork and latex midsole adds defined arch support, perfect for those long days working from home. The rubber outsole is suitable for both indoor and outdoor wear.
The Haflinger Gz Classic Grizzly Slippers are available in a variety of colors (from grey and black to chocolate and eggplant) and sizes (from 4 to 15 for women and 2 to 13 for men), ensuring that you can find the perfect pair to suit your style.
Reasons to Buy
Made from natural wool, making them a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.
Features a supportive and sturdy design, offering both comfort and stability.
The wool material provides insulation and warmth, making them ideal for colder weather.
Reasons to Avoid
The design may not be as visually appealing as other options, depending on personal style preferences.
What Customers Say
"I wear Haflinger clogs ALL of the time at home - so helpful for plantar fasciitis. I try other types of Haflingers, but always come back to this one. It fits me more snuggly than some of the other styles. I won't try the others in the future, and will stick with these."
5 Best Eco-Friendly Slippers: A Comparison
Here’s a comparison chart detailing the main features and benefits of each of my picks for the best sustainable slippers listed above.
| Slippers | Material | Sustainability Features | Comfort & Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Algae-Infused Recycled Parker Hoodback Slipper (Women's) | Recycled materials, Algae-infused soles | Made from recycled materials, reduces environmental impact through algae-infused soles | Exceptional comfort and support |
| Kyrgies Tengries - Wool House Shoes | Wool | Handmade using traditional Kyrgyz techniques, eco-friendly wool | Warmth, breathability |
| Nootkas Felted Merino Wool 'Astoria' Mule House Slipper (Women's) | Ethically sourced, hand-felted Merino wool | Eco-conscious production process, supports environmental conservation | Luxurious comfort, insulation |
| BureBure Slippers Natural Wool Cocoon | Organic, undyed wool | Handcrafted, biodegradable construction contributes to a greener planet | Natural warmth, temperature regulation |
| HAFLINGER Gz Classic Grizzly Slippers | Natural wool upper, cork-latex footbed | Eco-friendly manufacturing process | Breathability, arch support |
Best Sustainable Slippers: Frequently Asked Questions
In this FAQ section, I’ve answered some of the most common questions people have when shopping for sustainable slippers, to help you make an informed and sustainable purchase. From what makes a slipper sustainable to how to care for your new slippers, we've got you covered.
Q: What makes a slipper sustainable?
A: Sustainable slippers are made from eco-friendly and ethical materials such as natural wool, recycled materials, or organic fabrics. They are produced in a way that minimizes harm to the environment, such as using renewable energy or reducing waste.
5 Best Eco Friendly Slippers 2023 - The Coziest Sustainable House Shoes
Q: Are sustainable slippers more expensive than regular slippers?
A: Sustainable slippers can be more expensive than regular slippers due to the higher cost of eco-friendly materials and ethical production practices. However, there are many affordable options available, and investing in a quality pair of sustainable slippers can ultimately save money in the long run.
Q: How do I know if a slipper is comfortable and functional as well as sustainable?
A: Look for slippers that are made from high-quality and durable materials, with features such as good arch support, non-slip soles, and comfortable linings. Read reviews from other customers to get a sense of how comfortable and functional the slippers are.
Q: What should I consider when choosing sustainable slippers?
A: Consider factors such as the materials used, the design and style of the slipper, the level of comfort and support offered, and any additional features such as eco-friendly production methods or certifications.
Q: Can sustainable slippers be stylish as well as eco-friendly?
A: Yes, many sustainable slippers are designed with style and aesthetics in mind. Look for slippers with unique and fashionable designs that reflect your personal style while also being eco-friendly and sustainable.
Q: How can I take care of my sustainable slippers?
A: Follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure your slippers last as long as possible. For example, some wool slippers may need to be hand washed or air dried to maintain their shape and durability
Best Eco-Friendly Slippers Conclusion
Sustainable slippers are a great choice for those who want to make a positive impact on the environment while also enjoying comfortable and functional footwear at home. By choosing slippers made from eco-friendly and ethical materials, you can reduce your carbon footprint and support sustainable production practices.
Want more? Check out these articles for products to help you build the best home office setup in the world:
Andrew Macarthy has worked from home for over a decade. He is a social media consultant and the author of the #1 Amazon Web Marketing Bestseller, 500 Social Media Marketing Tips - with over 150,000 copies sold to date.
