Beach getaways are some of our favorite escapes—the sound of the waves, the warmth of the sun, and the relaxing vibe are hard to beat. However, as we head to the shore, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of what we bring with us. Towels are a beach essential, but did you know your towel can make a difference for both the planet and your community? At Goodshop, we believe in making smart, sustainable choices that also give back. Below, we’ve handpicked five outstanding sustainable beach towels to elevate your summer while leaving a lighter footprint on the earth.

Why Choose a Sustainable Beach Towel?

The textiles industry is notorious for water consumption, pollution, and microplastic shedding. Conventional towels are often made from non-organic cotton or synthetics that require harsh chemicals and create excessive waste. Choosing a sustainable towel helps reduce your environmental impact, supports brands with values, and, with Goodshop, also lets you donate to your favorite cause whenever you shop with us. Here’s what you can look for in an eco-friendly towel:

• Organic fibers: Choose towels made from Organic Cotton, Bamboo, or Hemp, which are grown using fewer chemicals and less water.
• Recycled materials: Some innovative towels use recycled polyester or regenerated yarns from landfill-bound textiles.
• Non-toxic dyes: Look for OEKO-TEX certified or low-impact dyes to avoid harmful chemicals.
• Durability: Well-made towels last longer, reducing waste over time.

1. Sand Cloud: Championing Ocean Conservation

If you want a towel that’s as thoughtfully made as it is stylish, Sand Cloud is a standout. Their Turkish cotton beach towels are renowned for being ultra-absorbent, quick-drying, and surprisingly lightweight, which means less bulk in your beach bag. Even better? Sand Cloud puts its money where its mouth is by donating a portion of every purchase to marine conservation organizations. When you choose Sand Cloud with Goodshop, you’ll also benefit your chosen nonprofit or school with every towel you buy—it’s a win-win for the planet and your community.

• Material: 100% organic Turkish cotton
• Features: Sand-resistant, compact, and dries three times faster than regular towels
• Sustainability: Plastic-free packaging, ethical manufacturing, and conservation donations

2. Mavi: From Eco-Friendly Jeans to Sustainable Towels

While Mavi is often celebrated for its eco-friendly denim, they also bring that same environmental ethos to their home and beach collections. Many of their products incorporate sustainable cotton, and their approach tends to focus on water-saving techniques, reducing waste, and durable quality. Opt for a beach towel from a brand prioritizing responsible sourcing, and you’ll invest in a product that holds up to sun, sand, and salt while being gentle on the earth.

• Material: Organic or recycled cotton
• Features: Vibrant colors, fade-resistant, and built to last many seasons
• Sustainability: Commitment to water conservation and responsible manufacturing

3. Sweetdefeat: Gentle Care for People and Planet

When it comes to soft, skin-friendly, and sustainable options, Sweetdefeat offers innovative personal care products—often with a focus on environmentally respectful materials and packaging. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, look for their range of towels and cloths made with natural, chemical-free fibers. These choices offer the gentle touch you need for beach days or poolside lounging, without introducing unnecessary toxins into our water systems.

• Material: Natural fibers, free from harsh treatments
• Features: Hypoallergenic, soft on skin, durable
• Sustainability: Low-waste packaging and mindful sourcing

4. Labucq: Functional Style Meets Eco Innovation

Labucq is more often recognized for their fashion-forward accessories, but their approach to retail is holistic, with an emphasis on mindful production and lasting quality. If you want a towel that’s as fashionable as it is practical, opting for a timeless pattern from brands with an eye for design and sustainability is the way to go. The right towel should carry you from the surf to sunset cocktails—without contributing to landfill waste.

• Material: Responsibly sourced or recycled fabrics
• Features: Sleek, modern design with a classic appeal
• Sustainability: Thoughtful packaging, minimalistic ethos, quality guaranteed

5. Enjoyflowers: Nature-Inspired, Earth-Friendly Textiles

Known for celebrating sustainable florals, Enjoyflowers offers home and lifestyle goods made with the same devotion to minimizing environmental impact. Their selection reflects a natural color palette and tactile beauty inspired by the outdoors—a perfect fit for eco-conscious beachgoers. Pick up a towel or blanket that’s woven from plant-based fabrics and colored with safe dyes for a summer look that’s as gentle on the eye as it is on the planet.

• Material: Plant-based fibers, eco-friendly dyes
• Features: Soft, colorful, and biodegradable
• Sustainability: Every part of the product lifecycle is considered, from farm to finish

How to Extend the Life of Your Sustainable Beach Towel

Making an eco-conscious purchase is step one. Next comes caring for your towel so it lasts many summers to come. Here are some insider tips:

• Rinse after use: Always shake out sand and give your towel a quick rinse to remove salt, sunscreen, and chlorine.
• Avoid high heat: Wash in cold water and tumble dry low or hang in the shade to prevent fading and fabric wear.
• No harsh chemicals: Choose gentle, eco-friendly detergents over bleach to protect fibers and the environment.
• Store properly: Make sure your towel is fully dry before folding away to prevent mildew.

Giving Back With Every Sustainable Swap

Every product you choose is an opportunity to vote for the kind of world you want to live in. When you shop via Goodshop, your purchase doesn’t just help save the planet—it can directly benefit a cause close to your heart. With every sustainable towel you buy through us, you’re supporting a more mindful consumer movement, while a portion of your spend goes to your favorite nonprofit or school.

Ready to Make a Splash?

Swapping to a sustainable beach towel is a small, simple step with ripple effects for the planet and your community. Whether you care about protecting oceans, supporting ethical labor, or reducing waste, there’s a towel here for you. Plus, when you shop with us at Goodshop, you’ll join a movement that’s raised over $13 million for nonprofits nationwide—just by making smarter shopping choices. So pack your sunscreen, grab your eco-friendly towel, and know that you’re helping to build a better world with every wave you chase this summer.