Homeschooling is a flexible learning option, but what if the supplies your child uses every day have harmful chemicals? Here are some nontoxic homeschool supplies you can use to replace the toxic ones you might already have in your homeschool!
(This post contains affiliate links. That means if you make a purchase via one of those links, I might earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. See full disclosure)
Why Choose Nontoxic Homeschool Supplies?
If you’re a stay-at-home mom looking for a simple, eco-friendly lifestyle, you’ll want to make learning safe, sustainable, and fun!
The bad news is that from plastic binders to petroleum-based crayons, many conventional school supplies are loaded with toxins. Many conventional supplies contain PVC, BPA, phthalates, and formaldehyde, which can harm young children, especially if they use them everyday.
Don’t be disheartened though. There is hope and you’re about to find great options!
Nontoxic Binders and Paper Organization
🌱 Best Nontoxic Binders
If you want less plastic in your home, say goodbye to the common plastic binders that release harmful chemicals over time.
Instead, opt for one of these:
This binder is made from 100% post-consumer recycled materials. Not only that, but it is also free from plastic and glue.
The cover of this Kraft Paper Binder is sturdy yet biodegradable and compostable.
📄 Plastic-Free File Folders & Organizers
The Blue Lake ECOLIFE Folder is chlorine-free, has no toxic glue, and is plastic -free. It is made of 100% natural fiber and is certified by the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC).
These paper binder dividers are a great choice for your homeschool because they are made from plant-based materials instead of plastic tabs. Imagine how much micro-plastic you can save the environment from with these!
Safe and Sustainable Writing Supplies
✏️ Nontoxic Pencils & Erasers
The reality is that standard pencils are often coated with synthetic lacquers to add sheen. Many pencils even have fragrances added to them.
These often contain chemicals that are either known carcinogens or are hormone disruptors.
If you are on a journey to a simple, nontoxic lifestyle, try these safer pencils and erasers for your homeschool:
These twig pencils are probably as natural as it gets! They are made using quality wood from real tree branches. That means no two pieces are the same and they won’t break or crack easily.
Ticonderoga Renew Recycled Pencils are made with 53% pre-consumer recycled wood with a natural wood finish. They come with latex-free erasers and are PMA certified as non-toxic.
Now why do I have a picture of a potted plant in this group? Look closely and you’ll see an upside-down pencil in there.
Let me explain. SproutWorld launched these super-ingenious earth-friendly pencils over 10 years ago, and they have literal seeds in them for you to plant when you’re done with the pencils. So, think basil, Forget me not, Thyme, Parsley, Eternity flower, Daisy and Rucola. Some even have tree seeds in them, like this set:
Natural Rubber Erasers are made from …well…natural rubber. You know, what they get from trees. And natural is what we want. Here are a few choices:
✏️ Non-Plastic Pencil Sharpeners
Although most sharpeners contain plastic, don’t be fooled – there are nontoxic pencil sharpeners out there, and your children can have their share.
Thankfully, there are better alternatives:
The Stockmar Dual Pencil sharpener is made from FSC certified lime wood, ensuring sustainability and durability.
The Mobius & Ruppert Brass Sharpener is a quality plastic-free option that is durable.
If you really like wood as a material, here are some more wooden sharpeners. These are SproutWorld Wooden Pencil Sharpeners. They are made from high quality, certified wood so they are plastic-free!
Plastic-Free and Safe Notebooks & Paper
📒 Nontoxic Notebooks
It isn’t hard to find spiral notebooks with plastic binding or chemical coatings, but there are better options:
- Decomposition Books are made in the USA from 100% post-consumer recycled paper. All printing is done with soy ink.
📜 Eco-Friendly Printing & Craft Paper
- Sugarcane Pulp Printing Paper is sustainable and chlorine-free.
- Kraft Paper Rolls are non-toxic and 100%recyclable. They are great for crafts, wrapping, and projects without chemical coatings.
Nontoxic Art & Craft Supplies for Creative Learning
🎨 Safe & Natural Paints
Many paints contain formaldehyde and heavy metals. Instead of exposing your little ones to these harmful chemicals, try these:
Petite Natural Earth Paint is a washable craft paint that is non-toxic and gluten-free. It even comes in compostable packaging!
Veggie Baby Finger Paint is made from organic fruit and vegetable extracts. It’s pretty much edible!
✂️ Non-Toxic Scissors & Glue
- Maped GreenLogic Recycled Scissors – 80% recycled materials, non-toxic.
- Elmer’s School Glue (Nontoxic & Washable) – Non-toxic and kid-safe.
- Nontoxic Glue Stick by Onyx & Green – Biodegradable and made from recycled cardboard packaging printed with soy-based ink
.
🖍 Nontoxic Crayons & Markers
- Honeysticks Beeswax Crayons – Made from pure beeswax and food-grade pigments.
- Crayon Rocks Soy Wax Crayons – All-natural, soy-based, and easy for small hands to hold.
Nontoxic Playdough
Unfortunately, traditional playdough can contain artificial dyes and chemicals. You should opt for nontoxic playdough to make sure that playtime remains both fun and safe.
PHILODOGS Playdough Set
One standout option is the PHILODOGS Playdough Set. This set is gentle and eco-friendly, made from wheat flour, purified water, and salt. You can have peace of mind knowing that this product is free from harmful substances, making it a perfect addition to any nontoxic homeschool environment.
Nontoxic Chalk
Whether it’s used on sidewalks or blackboards, chalk is another essential tool for creative expression. Choosing nontoxic chalk ensures that children can enjoy drawing and writing without exposure to harmful chemicals.
Washable Sidewalk Chalk
The Keebor Washable Sidewalk Chalk is a fantastic choice because it is not only non-toxic but also washable. Its vibrant colors and jumbo size are perfect for little hands.
PHILODOGS Healthy Chalk for Kids
Another excellent option is the PHILODOGS Healthy Chalk for Kids. It is dustless, coloured, and is made with non-toxic materials.
This chalk brand has passed rigorous safety standards, is durable, and comes with a paper holder.
Eco-Friendly Glitter & Tape
Most glitter is made of microplastics. Try these instead:
- Sunny Gold Biodegradable Glitter – Plant-based and ocean-safe.
- Biodegradable Paper Tape – Perfect for crafts and sticking projects together.
Final Thoughts: Creating a Non-Toxic Learning Space
Switching to nontoxic homeschool supplies will make a big difference for everyone in your home and not just your child’s health.
Which of these nontoxic homeschool supplies are you getting first? Let me know in the comments!
