Category Archives: Sustainable Living

Sustainable Living

Creative Ways to Repurpose an Old Bicycle Helmet: Options and Examples

4 Comments

Give Your Old Helmet New Purpose With These Creative Upcycling Ideas!

This post contains affiliate links which may earn Eco Mom Diaries a commission.

Old helmets – they’ve protected our heads, witnessed our adventures, and maybe even saved our lives.

But when they’ve reached the end of their safety-certified lifespan or are no longer needed, what happens next? Instead of sending them to the landfill, why not give them a new lease on life?

With a little creativity, used bicycle, motorcycle and sports helmets can be transformed into unique planters, functional storage containers, or even works of art.

In this article, we’ll explore the world of upcycling and repurposing old bicycle helmets, and show you how to turn a discarded safety essential into a one-of-a-kind treasure.

The Benefits Of Upcycling Old Helmets

  • Reduces Waste: By repurposing helmets, we can significantly reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, helping to minimize the environmental impact of our disposable culture.
  • Encourages Creativity: Repurposing helmets inspires creativity and resourcefulness, allowing us to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions.
  • Saves Resources: Upcycling helmets saves the resources needed to produce new materials, reducing the demand on raw materials and the energy required for manufacturing.
  • Creates Unique Items: Repurposed helmets can become one-of-a-kind decorative pieces, functional items, or even works of art, adding a personal touch to our homes and lives.

Upcycling Ideas

Here are some examples of creative repurposing projects for your used bicycle helmets:

  • Planters: Attach soil and plants to create a unique garden feature.
  • Pen or Pencil Holders: Mount on a wall or desk for a quirky office supply holder.
  • Birdhouses: Transform into a cozy bird habitat.
  • Wind Chimes: Add metal washers, beads, or small bells for a melodious creation.
  • Art Projects: Paint, glue, or decoupage to create a one-of-a-kind art piece.
  • Bookends: Fill with sand or weights for a sturdy book support.
  • Desk Organizers: Attach small trays or compartments for storing small items.
  • Science Experiment Containers: Use for homeschooling or educational projects.
  • Pet Bed: Clean and cushion for a cozy spot for small pets.
  • Theatrical Props: Use as a creative prop for theatrical performances or costume design.
  • Lamp Shades: Attach a light source and decorate for a unique lamp.
  • Wall Decor: Paint or decorate to hang as a geometric wall feature.
  • Storage Containers: Use for storing small items like buttons, safety pins, or beads.
  • Robot Sculptures: Combine with other materials for a creative robot art piece.
  • Donation Boxes: Clean and use for collecting donations or tips.
  • Fruit Bowl: Clean and use as a fruit bowl in your home or office.
  • Halloween Decoration: Create a floating ghost by covering your helmet with a bed sheet and hang it on your front porch.

  • Halloween Costume: Create a super hero helmet from your favorite comic book or movie.

Below you’ll find some more amazing and creative examples of repurposed bicycle and motorcycle helmets from Instagram to help inspire you!

Repurposed bicycle helmet by rewox.wales on instagram

Helmet Upcycled Into A Lamp

Source: Reworx.wales | Instagram

Repurposed helmet by Bobbie snakes on instagram

Helmet Repurposed Into A Bird House

Source: BobbieSnakes | Instagram

Repurposed helmet by cactus magazine on Instagram

Helmet Repurposed Into A Hanging Cactus Pot

Source: Cactus Magazine | Aldo Villacorta | Instagram

Helmet Repurposed Into A Hanging Plant Pot

Source: El Jebel | Instagram

Repurposed helmet by elm city vintage Dave on Instagram

Helmet Upcycled Into A Desk Lamp

Source: Elmcityvintagedave | Instagram

Repurposed bicycle helmet into planter

Helmet Repurposed Into An Outdoor Hanging Plant Pot

Source: Nirvana_Garden_Concepts | Instagram

Helmet Repurposed Into A Halloween Prop

Source: Eco Mom Diaries | Instagram

Helmet Repurposed Into An Indoor Plant Pot

Source: OnlyOneMumba | Instagram

Helmet Repurposed Into A Ceiling Lamp

Source: ThatsNotRubbish | Instagram

Helmet Repurposed Into A Fruit Bowl

Source: Eco Mom Diaries | Blog

As you can see, repurposing helmets is a simple yet effective way to make a positive impact on the environment while unleashing our creativity.

So the next time you’re about to discard an old helmet, think twice and consider giving it a new life.

With a little imagination, we can turn trash into treasure and make the world a more sustainable and interesting place, one helmet at a time!

You Can Also Consider Recycling Via TerraCycle

TerraCycle is a recycling program that can take apart and repurpose the components of your used bicycle helmet—BUT, it costs. A small zero-waste shipping box costs around $240.00 but, it can be filled with as many sporting goods as you can fit—so in addition to the helmet, you can get rid of other unwanted items that are just laying around in your garage.

Garage Terra Cycle Boxes
Get One On Amazon

Sustainable Living

Best DIY Breastmilk Jewelry Kits

4 Comments

Easy DIY Breastmilk Jewelry Kits That Create The Sweetest Keepsakes!

This post contains affiliate links which may earn Eco Mom Diaries a small commission

Giving birth and becoming a mother is one of the biggest milestones in a woman’s life. And if you’ve chosen to breastfeed, then you know how special a breastfeeding journey truly is—hard, painful and complex, but at the same time so full of love and oh so rewarding.

Many new moms seek to preserve their breastfeeding journey by creating a lifelong keepsake. A tangible memento that they can cherish for a lifetime.

If you’re someone who is into DIY projects and would prefer to create your own breastmilk jewelry or other type of creation, then a DIY breastmilk preservation kit is a great way to go about doing so in the privacy of your own home.

At the same time, not many women can experience a breastfeeding journey; hence, mothers who have lost their babies in childbirth likewise seek to preserve their breastmilk to honor and remember their child by. And that’s what makes breastmilk preservation so special.

How Do Breastmilk Preservation Kits Work?

Preserving your breastmilk and turning it into a special creation involves a chemical process that solidifies the liquid gold and keeps it from spoiling.

All Breastmilk preservation kits comes with the necessary supplies and instructions that make the process as simple as possible.

You can use old and expired breastmilk that is many years old—as long as it is preserved properly. Expired Breastmilk works just as well as fresh milk, and won’t affect the outcome or quality.

What Type Of Creations Can I Make Out Of Breastmilk?

Many Breastmilk preservation kits specialize in jewelry. They supply you with pendent molds, lockets and chains. Some will even have earrings and other jewelry available for you to create.

Then there are other breastmilk kits that specialize in skincare products like soap bars, which allow you to transform your breastmilk into a skin cleansing product.

How Long Does A DIY Breastmilk Creation Take To Make?

With most kits, after you pour your treated breastmilk into a mold, it takes anywhere from 12-48 hours until it is completely solid and ready to wear.

DIY breastmilk kits certainly save you time and money. The con to doing your own breastmilk jewelry is that there is a chance that things might not turn out. But, if you’re up for a little challenge, then have at it!

Breastmilk Preservation Kits Make Wonderful Baby Shower Gifts

Breastmilk preservation kits are very thoughtful gifts for expecting moms. Most baby gear will only be used for a limited amount of time, but a breastmilk memento will last a lifetime, and the expecting mom will absolutely love the gift!

Best Breastfeeding Keepsake Kits For New Moms

DIY Breastmilk Necklace Kit

Brand | Lackto

LACKTO is a high quality DIY breastmilk jewelry kit that comes with one mold per kit and all the essential tools that you need to create your breastmilk keepsake.

Choose from sweet shapes such as a mother kissing her child on the forehead, footprints, hearts, and more.

Lackto kits includes easy to follow instructions, and you can also watch their step-by-step video tutorial on YouTube, which we’ve provided below.

Source: Youtube | Lackto
Shop On Amazon
Breastmilk Newelry

DIY Breastmilk Ring Kit

Brand | IuniJewel

If you’re opting for a ring-only jewelry kit, this Etsy gem is a great choice for you. In just six easy steps, you can create a gorgeous ring made from a gold-plated, sterling silver with cubic-zirconia side stones and your breastmilk.

This breastmilk ring kit also comes with comes with a free gift box and an upscale jewelry bag. It makes the perfect gift for yourself or someone special, and is great for occasions like Mother’s Day, Birthdays and anniversaries.

This Etsy seller creates entire breastmilk jewelry sets as well (rings, necklaces, earrings), so feel free to check out their Etsy storefront!

Shop On Etsy

DIY Real Gold Breastmilk Jewelry Kit

Brand | KeepsakeJewelryDIY

If you’re seeking a breastmilk jewelry kit with real gold, this kit is perfect for you. With this kit, you can choose between 10k and 14k gold settings, and you can opt for yellow gold, rose gold or white gold.

The resin will create about 4-5 pieces which you can implement into other settings. This kit is a bit expensive because you will be purchasing real gold, however, if you need hypoallergenic jewelry, this kit is the one to buy.

Shop On Etsy
Milky Treasures Breastmilk Jewelry Kit

DIY Breastmilk Jewelry Kit

Brand | Milky Treasures

The Milky Treasures DIY Breastmilk Jewelry Making Kit lets you make elegant and timeless jewelry. Whether it’s a ring or pendant necklace, you’re going to love how beautiful your creation will look!

This breastmilk jewelry kit comes with easy to follow instructions, and the resin hardens in a matter of seconds under a UV lamp, which is also included in the kit.

Shop On Amazon

DIY Breastmilk Necklace Making Kit

Brand | Earth, Sky & You

This is a fantastic DIY breastmilk preservation kit by a brand called Earth, Sky & You on Amazon with fabulous reviews, and includes not one, but two locket necklaces in which you’ll hold your breastmilk creation for a lifetime.


Each locket comes with two stainless steel chains, and the kit also includes a charming bonus necklace in the shape of a heart that says “mom”.

This entire breastmilk preservation kit comes with easy to follow instructions and is ready to wear 48 hours after you fill the mold.

Shop On Amazon

Sustainable Living

The Surprising Health Benefits of Beeswax Candles

10 Comments

This post contains affiliate links which may earn Eco Mom Diaries a small commission.

There is something magical about lighting a candle. The gentle glow, the soft warmth, and the peaceful flicker instantly make a home feel calm and welcoming. But not all candles are created equal. If you are trying to live a more natural or “eco-ish” lifestyle, beeswax candles are often considered one of the healthiest and most sustainable options.

Unlike conventional candles made from petroleum-based paraffin wax, beeswax candles are made from a natural substance produced by honeybees. For thousands of years, people have used beeswax in candles, cosmetics, and even medicine because of its natural properties and clean burn.

Let us explore why beeswax candles have become such a favorite in natural homes and why many people consider them the gold standard of non-toxic candles.

What Are Beeswax Candles?

Beeswax candles are made from wax produced by honeybees as they build honeycombs. Worker bees secrete wax from special glands on their abdomen and shape it into hexagonal cells used to store honey and pollen.

The wax has a beautiful golden color and naturally sweet honey scent, which means beeswax candles usually do not need synthetic fragrance oils.

Because beeswax is a renewable natural resource, it has become a popular choice for people who want a more sustainable and eco-friendly candle option.

Fun fact:
A honeybee must visit thousands of flowers to produce just a small amount of wax. That means every beeswax candle is essentially a tiny miracle of nature.

Beeswax Candles vs Paraffin Candles

Many conventional candles sold in stores are made from paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum. While paraffin candles are inexpensive, they can produce soot when burned, especially if the wick is not trimmed properly.

Beeswax candles are different because they are made from a completely natural substance produced by honeybees. This natural wax tends to burn cleaner and slower than paraffin, which is one reason many natural living enthusiasts prefer beeswax candles.

Here is a quick comparison:

Beeswax candles
• natural and renewable
• naturally scented
• long burn time
• minimal soot when burned properly

Paraffin candles
• petroleum based
• often contain artificial fragrance
• shorter burn time
• may produce more soot

Because of these differences, beeswax candles are often considered a premium natural candle option.

Benefits of Beeswax Candles

1. Beeswax Candles Burn Cleaner Than Many Other Candles

One of the biggest reasons people switch to beeswax candles is because they tend to burn cleaner than traditional paraffin candles.

Paraffin wax is a petroleum byproduct, and when burned it can release soot and certain pollutants into the air. Natural wax candles such as beeswax and soy generally produce less smoke and fewer pollutants when burned properly.

That is why many people who are trying to reduce toxins in their home prefer beeswax candles instead of heavily fragranced candles.

To burn candles safely:

• Trim the wick to about ¼ inch
• Burn candles in well-ventilated spaces
• Avoid synthetic fragrance oils if possible

These simple steps help candles burn more cleanly and evenly.

2. A Natural Honey Aroma (No Artificial Fragrance Needed)

If you have ever smelled a pure beeswax candle, you know the scent is subtle and lovely. Instead of artificial fragrances, beeswax naturally smells faintly like warm honey and sunshine.

Synthetic fragrances used in many candles can irritate sensitive individuals and may trigger headaches or respiratory irritation for some people.

Because beeswax candles are naturally fragrant, they often require no added perfumes or chemicals.

This makes them a favorite for:

• People with fragrance sensitivities
• Minimalist or natural homes
• Eco-friendly households
• Parents trying to reduce toxins indoors

3. Long-Lasting and Slow Burning

Another perk of beeswax candles is their long burn time.

Beeswax has a relatively high melting point, which means beeswax candles burn slower and last longer than many other types of candles.

This means:

• Less frequent candle replacement
• Better value over time
• Longer cozy evenings by candlelight

Some people even say beeswax candles have the brightest flame of all candle waxes.

Historically, beeswax candles were used in churches and royal ceremonies because their flames were bright, clean, and elegant.

4. Hypoallergenic and Gentle for Sensitive Homes

Many people who struggle with allergies or chemical sensitivities find beeswax candles easier to tolerate than conventional scented candles.

While no candle is completely emission-free, natural wax candles without synthetic fragrance tend to be less irritating for sensitive individuals.

That is why many people who practice natural living or clean home habits choose beeswax candles as part of their low-tox home routine.

5. Beeswax Is a Renewable and Sustainable Resource

Unlike paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum, beeswax is 100% renewable and biodegradable.

Beekeeping plays an important role in agriculture because honeybees help pollinate crops and support ecosystems.

Choosing beeswax products can help support:

• Small beekeepers
• Pollinator health
• Sustainable agriculture
• Natural product industries

It is a small purchase that can support a much larger environmental system.

6. Beeswax Candles Have Been Used for Thousands of Years

Beeswax candles are not a new trend. In fact, they are one of the oldest candle materials known to humans.

Archaeologists have discovered beeswax candles dating back centuries, and they were even found in ancient European burial sites.

In medieval times, beeswax candles were so valuable that they were reserved for churches and royalty.

Today, thankfully, we can all enjoy them.

7. The Cozy Wellness Factor

Sometimes the benefits of beeswax candles are not just scientific. They are emotional.

Lighting a candle can help create a peaceful environment that encourages relaxation and mindfulness.

Many people use beeswax candles during:

• Evening routines
• Prayer or meditation
• Baths and self-care
• Cozy winter evenings

There is something deeply comforting about natural candlelight that electric lighting simply cannot replace.

The Truth About the “Air Purifying” Claim

You may have heard that beeswax candles purify the air by releasing negative ions.

This claim is very common online, but scientific evidence supporting this effect is limited. Research has not confirmed that burning beeswax candles produces enough ions to meaningfully clean indoor air.

That said, beeswax candles may still be a cleaner alternative to paraffin candles, especially when they are unscented and made with natural cotton wicks.

So while they may not replace an air purifier, they can still be a lovely and natural candle choice.

Fascinating Beeswax Candle Facts

Here are some fun facts about beeswax that most people do not know.

• Bees must consume about 8 pounds of honey to produce 1 pound of beeswax

• A single honeybee colony may produce only one or two pounds of wax per year

• Beeswax candles were historically used in churches and royal ceremonies

• Beeswax has a natural golden color that varies depending on the flowers bees visit

• Ancient Egyptians used beeswax in cosmetics and medicine

Every beeswax candle represents thousands of hours of work by honeybees.

How to Choose High-Quality Beeswax Candles

If you want the healthiest beeswax candle option, look for these qualities:

• 100% pure beeswax
• Cotton or wooden wicks
• No artificial fragrances
• No paraffin blends

Some candles labeled “beeswax” may actually contain wax blends, so reading the label carefully helps ensure you get the real thing.

The Bottom Line

Beeswax candles bring together beauty, tradition, and natural living in one simple product. While they may not magically purify the air, they still offer many benefits that make them a favorite for eco-friendly homes.

They are:

• Naturally fragrant
• Renewable and sustainable
• Long-burning
• Traditionally used for centuries
• A cozy way to reduce synthetic fragrances indoors

And perhaps most importantly, they make a home feel warm, calm, and just a little bit magical.

So the next time you light a beeswax candle, remember that you are enjoying a tiny piece of nature’s craftsmanship — made by hardworking honeybees and perfected over thousands of years.

Where To Shop?

If you are ready to try beeswax candles in your home, I put together a little collection of my favorites in my Amazon storefront. These are candles I love for creating a cozy, natural atmosphere without the heavy synthetic fragrances.


You can browse them all here on my Amazon storefront.

Beeswax store front
Sustainable Living

Countertop Compost Bins That Make Composting Easy (Even for Beginners)

7 Comments

This post contains affiliate links which may earn us a commission

Let’s have a little mom-to-mom moment here.

You know that tiny pile of onion skins, strawberry tops, coffee grounds, and random carrot peels that magically appears every time you cook? For years, I used to scrape all of that straight into the trash.

And then one day I realized… that trash bag was basically half food scraps.

Turns out, that is actually very common. In the United States, food waste makes up one of the largest parts of household trash, and as much as 40% of food produced ends up uneaten. Most of it ends up in landfills where it creates methane, a powerful greenhouse gas.

But here is the good news: composting is one of the easiest eco-friendly habits you can start at home. Even better, it does not require a giant backyard compost pile or a complicated system.

All you really need is a simple countertop compost bin sitting quietly on your kitchen counter.

These little bins make it easy to collect fruit peels, veggie scraps, coffee grounds, and eggshells while you cook. Then you simply empty them into your outdoor compost pile, municipal compost pickup, or garden.

And honestly? Some of them are so pretty they look like décor.

If you have been thinking about starting kitchen composting but want something simple, tidy, and odor-free, here are some of the best countertop compost bins that make sustainable living feel easy.

Why Every Kitchen Needs a Countertop Compost Bin

If you are new to composting, the idea might sound messy or complicated.

But the truth is that a small kitchen compost bin is basically just a collection container for food scraps before they go outside or to a compost service.

Here is why so many families are adding them to their kitchens:

1. They dramatically reduce food waste

Food scraps and yard waste make up 20–30% of what households throw away, so composting can significantly reduce the amount of trash you send to landfills.

Instead of tossing those scraps in the garbage, you turn them into nutrient-rich soil.

2. Compost improves soil naturally

Compost adds organic matter to soil, helping plants grow stronger and retain water while reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Gardeners call compost “black gold” for a reason.

3. It helps the environment

Composting diverts organic waste from landfills and reduces greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.

Small habit. Big impact.

4. Modern compost bins do not smell

This is the biggest concern people have.

Thankfully, most countertop compost bins use activated charcoal filters that trap odors and keep things fresh on the counter.

No smell. No bugs. No drama.

What to Look for in a Countertop Compost Bin

Before we get into the best options, here are a few features that make a compost bin worth buying.

Charcoal filters

These absorb odors and keep your kitchen smelling normal.

Easy-clean materials

Stainless steel and smooth plastics are easiest to wash.

A tight-fitting lid

This helps prevent fruit flies and keeps odors contained.

Comfortable handle

You will be carrying the bin outside regularly, so a sturdy handle helps.

The Best Countertop Compost Bins for Your Kitchen

Here are some of the most loved countertop compost bins that combine style, odor control, and easy cleaning.

Screenshot

1. Epica Stainless Steel Compost Bin

This is one of the most popular countertop compost bins on Amazon.

It holds about 1.3 gallons of food scraps, which is perfect for several days of kitchen waste.

Why people love it:

• sleek stainless steel design
• charcoal filter for odor control
• durable construction
• dishwasher-safe lid

It is simple, functional, and fits nicely on most kitchen counters.

2. OXO Easy-Clean Compost Caddy

OXO is known for making well-designed kitchen tools, and their compost caddy is no exception.

This bin is especially great for people who want something easy to clean and very user-friendly.

Features include:

• flip-top lid
• removable bucket
• smooth interior for easy washing
• sleek modern design

It also fits nicely on a countertop or mounted inside a cabinet door.

Screenshot

3. Bamboozle Compost Bin

If you love the eco-core aesthetic, this compost bin is beautiful.

The Bamboozle bin is made from biodegradable bamboo fiber, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Why people love it:

• lightweight design
• earthy neutral colors
• dishwasher-safe
• sustainable materials

It blends beautifully with modern or farmhouse kitchens.

4. Utopia Kitchen Compost Bin

This stainless steel compost bin is another popular choice.

It is affordable but still includes important features like charcoal filters and a sturdy handle.

This is a great option if you want something reliable without spending too much.

Screenshot

5. Full Circle Fresh Air Compost Bin

This bin has a modern design and uses vented airflow technology to reduce odors naturally.

Instead of relying only on charcoal filters, the airflow helps food scraps dry out slightly, which reduces smell.

Many people love this bin because it feels extra clean and low-maintenance.

What Can You Put in a Kitchen Compost Bin?

If you are new to composting, here are common food scraps you can add.

Good compost items:

• fruit peels
• vegetable scraps
• eggshells
• coffee grounds
• tea bags
• stale bread
• paper napkins

Avoid adding:

• meat
• fish
• dairy
• oily foods

Those items require more advanced compost systems.

Tips for Keeping Your Kitchen Compost Bin Fresh

If you want an odor-free compost setup, these tips make a big difference.

Empty the bin frequently

Small bins are meant to be emptied every few days.

Use compostable liners

These make cleanup much easier.

Add dry materials

Things like shredded paper or cardboard help balance moisture.

Replace charcoal filters regularly

This helps maintain odor control.

My Favorite Composting Trick

Here is a trick many composters swear by.

If your compost bin ever starts to smell, simply store your food scraps in the freezer until you are ready to compost them.

This completely eliminates odors and fruit flies.