Easter can a magical time for kids — the excitement of the Easter Bunny, colorful eggs, and of course, discovering a basket full of treats. But it can also be wasteful. The cheap plastic Easter baskets from our childhood usually end up broken, forgotten or tossed in the trash within a few weeks. This year, make Easter a little more meaningful (and eco-friendly) by swapping out that plastic basket for something reusable and sustainable.
Not only will you cut down on waste, but you’ll also create a lasting tradition with a basket that can be used year after year — or even repurposed for storage or playtime. Plus, many reusable options are adorable and will be played with all year round. Below, you’ll find 10 kid-friendly Easter basket alternatives, as well as some fun ideas to fill them with.
Reusable and sustainable basket alternatives that will delight any kid:
- Fabric tote bag
A colorful fabric tote bag makes a perfect Easter basket. It’s soft, easy for little hands to carry, and can be reused for playdates, library trips, or toy storage after Easter. Personalize it with your child’s name or some fun Easter-themed iron-ons for a special touch. - Canvas bucket
Canvas buckets are durable and easy to store when not in use. They often come in fun patterns and bright colors, which makes them perfect for Easter egg hunts. After Easter, they’re great for holding toys or art supplies. - Mini backpack
Why not make the “basket” part of the gift? A mini backpack filled with Easter goodies is both practical and exciting. Your child can use it for school, day trips, or playdates long after Easter is over. - Seagrass basket
A woven seagrass basket is a natural and eco-friendly alternative. It gives off a cute, rustic vibe and can double as room decor or storage for stuffed animals and books. - Metal pail
A colorful metal pail is fun for kids to carry and easy to clean. After Easter, it can be used for gardening, beach trips or toy storage. - Cloth-lined basket
A soft, cloth-lined basket is gentle on little hands and can be customized with different fabrics. After Easter, it’s perfect for organizing books, toys, or art supplies. - Felt basket
Felt baskets are lightweight and easy for kids to handle. They come in fun shapes and colors and are soft enough for even the youngest kids to carry around. - Wood crate
A small wooden crate adds a rustic touch and is super sturdy. After Easter, it can be used to hold books, toys, or even as a plant holder in your child’s room. - Cotton drawstring bag
A soft drawstring bag is lightweight and easy for kids to carry. Plus, it’s foldable and easy to store when not in use. It’s great for sleepovers or organizing toys after Easter. - Tin lunchbox
A cute tin lunchbox gives off a fun, vintage vibe and is perfect for holding Easter treats. After Easter, it can double as a lunchbox or a place to store art supplies and small toys.
clockwise from top left: mini-backpack / fabric bin / basket / metal pail / wood crate / seagrass basket / drawstring backpack / boom box lunchbox / felt bin / fabric tote bag
How to Fill Your Basket Without Plastic Waste
Once you’ve picked the perfect eco-friendly “basket,” it’s time to fill it with Easter goodies! Instead of plastic toys and candy wrapped in single-use packaging, add items that are thoughtful, reusable and sustainable. Here are some creative ideas:
1. Eco-friendly treats
Swap out the plastic-wrapped candy for chocolate bunnies or eggs wrapped in foil (which can be recycled), homemade cookies or trail mix in a small reusable jar.
2. Small books
Add a seasonal picture book or a small chapter book to encourage a love of reading. Books are a thoughtful, low-waste gift that kids can enjoy long after Easter is over.
3. Reusable water bottle
A colorful, personalized water bottle is both practical and eco-friendly. I love the Owala Free Sip and all of their fun colorways.
4. Craft supplies
Small packs of crayons, colored pencils and mini notepads are perfect for keeping kids entertained.
5. Outdoor toys
Sidewalk chalk, bubbles or jump rope are affordable, reusable, and great for springtime fun.
6. Stuffed animals
A small, soft stuffed animal is always a hit with younger kids. Look for ones made from organic cotton or recycled materials for an eco-friendly touch.
7. Planting kits
Small planting kits with seeds, soil and a biodegradable pot can help kids connect with nature. Watching their plants grow will give them a sense of accomplishment and teach them about sustainability.
8. Bath bombs or bubble bath
Make bath time more fun by adding a colorful bath bomb or a bottle of natural bubble bath. Look for kid-friendly, non-toxic options in recyclable or reusable packaging.
9. Puzzle or game
A small puzzle and travel-sized game are a great way to keep kids entertained on rainy spring days. Look for options made from recycled materials or wood.
10. Reusable snack bags
Sort loose candy into cute reusable snack bags. They’re perfect for packing lunches or snacks for school and help reduce plastic waste.
For 10 non-candy ideas to put into Easter eggs, visit this post.
Why It Matters
Choosing a reusable Easter basket (and thoughtful fillers) isn’t just about reducing waste — it’s about teaching kids to value what they have and to care for the environment. A high-quality basket or gift bag can become a tradition, brought out year after year and filled with love and excitement.
By swapping out disposable plastic for sustainable options, you’re helping to reduce plastic pollution and encouraging kids to think about their impact on the planet. Plus, these alternatives are often more durable and versatile, making them worth the investment.
Final Thoughts
This Easter, skip the plastic and go for something more meaningful and sustainable. Whether you choose a mini backpack, a canvas bucket, or a cute tin lunchbox, your kids will be thrilled — and you’ll feel good knowing you’ve made an eco-friendly choice.
So this Easter, give a basket they will remember — without the plastic waste!
