We’ve all been there—those bright, crinkly party bags filled with plastic trinkets that either break within hours or end up in the bin. You’ve probably tossed a few, and maybe even unwittingly given some out yourself. But here’s the thing: with a little planning and creativity, party bags can be transformed into something that’s both meaningful and eco-friendly.
According to a Greenpeace study from April 2024, a staggering 1.7 billion pieces of plastic are thrown away in the UK each week. That’s 90 billion pieces annually! It’s a sobering statistic and a call to action for us all to rethink the way we celebrate.
At Cotton Twist, we’ve spent the past decade working to reduce the amount of plastic in party bags, and while progress has been made, we know there’s always more we can do. Here are our top tips for planning an unforgettable party and filling party bags responsibly:
Start with a theme that excites the little ones. Whether it’s a woodland adventure, a space odyssey, or a rainbow fiesta, having a central idea helps tie everything together—from decorations to activities and, yes, the party bags.
Craft activities are the ultimate multitaskers. Not only do they entertain kids during the party, but they also provide a keepsake to take home. Think bracelet-making kits, DIY keyring, or make your own peg doll. These creative projects aren’t just plastic-free; they encourage imagination and fine motor skills.
Let’s be honest—no one needs another mini plastic slinky or a balloon that’ll pop in five minutes. Instead, opt for high-quality, eco-friendly alternatives. Think wooden toys, paper crafts, or even mini tins for storing treasures.
Adding a personal touch to party bags makes them even more special. Include a handwritten thank-you note, or let the kids customise their own bags with stickers or stamps. It’s a little effort that goes a long way.
Spread the Word About Sustainable Party Fillers
By choosing sustainable options, you’re not only reducing waste but also setting an example for other parents. Let them know where you found those amazing plastic-free kits or share your ideas for creative party activities. Together, we can make eco-conscious celebrations the new norm.
There are many benefits to using our eco party bag fillers, but one of the key advantages is the speed & efficiency with which you can create personalised bags. With our fillers and a chocolate lolly, it takes less than 4 minutes to create 20 customised bags. As well, by not buying mountains of plastic tat, our eco-friendly fillers contribute to a sustainable and environmentally conscious event 🌍... it's a WIN WIN scenario!
If you’re new to us or think we can help make your next celebration extra special, follow along for more ideas and inspiration. Let’s make every party a celebration of creativity and sustainability!