Lovett Sundries
brand rating & evaluation
overall rating:
Top Choice
Our ratings are based on a scale from 1 (Avoid) to 5 (Top Choice). See How We Rate
The Shifting Gaia rating evaluates brands based on sustainable practices, ingredients and materials, and social responsibility, among others. Below are a few factors influencing this brand's score:
certifications:
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overview
sustainability
non-toxic
social responsibility
8.6 out of 10
10 out of 10
7 out of 10
about
Lovett Sundries makes personal care and home cleaning essentials from clean, sustainably sourced ingredients.
highlights
Plastic-free
Palm oil-free
Toxin-free
Woman-owned
Leaping Bunny
sustainability
score:
8.6 out of 10
details:
Packaging
All containers are chosen for recyclability or compostability, including glass bottles and jars, aluminum tins, and recycled-paper boxes, with only minimal plastic in necessary components (like spray pumps). In fact, the company’s Zero-Waste Promise highlights that they have “eliminated unnecessary plastic components and introduced plastic-free alternatives like refills for products with spray pumps or droppers.”
Shipping materials are also fully eco-friendly: Lovett Sundries uses repurposed and post-consumer cardboard boxes, paper tape, and kraft paper fill.
The FAQ provides end-of-life guidance: glass bottles and jars can be reused or recycled, kraft paper boxes can be composted, aluminum tins and metal lids are reusable or recyclable, and even the few plastic pump/spray tops can be saved and reattached to refill bottles.
Ingredient Sustainability
They do not use synthetic colorants, artificial fragrances, parabens, sulfates, phthalates, or other problematic additives. Lovett Sundries also forgoes palm oil entirely to prevent unsustainable agriculture. Many of their botanical ingredients are certified organic, indicating more sustainable farming practices (e.g. organic jojoba and apricot oils in the face cream). The use of innovative natural preservatives and emulsifiers (like probiotic ferment and coconut-based emulsifier) shows dedication to greener chemistry.
All ingredients used are chosen with an eye toward low ecological impact: they are biodegradable, largely non-toxic to wildlife, and sourced from renewable resources.
Energy Use and Footprint
There is limited information available about the brand’s energy use and carbon footprint. The company has not published data on its manufacturing energy sources or greenhouse gas emissions. As a hand-crafted, local business, Lovett Sundries likely has a relatively modest footprint compared to large manufacturers, simply due to its scale and manual production methods.
Waste Management
Internally, the company’s small-batch, handcrafted production likely generates minimal manufacturing waste. The formulations use simple processes (e.g., mixing, saponifying oils, etc.) that don’t create hazardous byproducts.
Business Model
Lovett Sundries’ business model is inherently oriented toward sustainability and mindful consumption. Firstly, the brand is family-run and small-scale, and it does not engage in rapid-fire product launches or trend-driven releases. Instead, they offer a stable line of “finely crafted apothecary stock” focusing on everyday essentials. The business model actively incorporates refills and reusables. Lovett Sundries often sells products in refill packaging or offers refill options.
non-toxic
score:
10 out of 10
details:
Across Lovett Sundries’ products, you will not find parabens (hormone-disrupting preservatives), synthetic “fragrance” blends (which can hide phthalates or allergens), SLS/SLES (harsh sulfates known to irritate skin), phthalates, PEGs, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, triclosan, or petroleum distillates.
Not only does the brand avoid the “dirty” chemicals, but it replaces them with benign alternatives. For preservatives, as mentioned, they use lactobacillus ferment (a safe, food-grade preservative). For fragrance, they use only pure essential oils or botanical hydrosols, and even offer unscented options for those with sensitivities.
social responsibility
score:
7 out of 10
details:
Lovett Sundries is a small, woman-owned and family-run business, which gives it a strong foundation for fair labor practices within its own operations. The company is based in Wilkinsburg (Pittsburgh), where it has a workshop and storefront, and as of recently, “just three of us” (the founders and perhaps one employee) are making the products. When it comes to the supply chain beyond the immediate team, the picture is less clear due to limited published information. Lovett Sundries sources many of its ingredients from wholesalers or producers, and we have a few insights: for example, their beeswax comes from a local Pennsylvania apiary, Bedillion Honey Farm.
Lovett Sundries demonstrates a strong commitment to animal welfare, particularly in terms of cruelty-free product development. The company is officially Leaping Bunny Certified as of 2025. The FAQ confirms their products are “vegetarian” (meaning no animal fats or gelatin etc.), but not strictly vegan due to the use of beeswax.
River Organics may be a small business, but it makes a meaningful positive impact on communities and the environment through sustained engagement and charitable support. Notably, every month River Organics donates to two conservation organizations: The Sloth Conservation Foundation in Costa Rica and the Coral Restoration Foundation in Florida.
One of the brand’s most significant community-oriented aspects is its focus on education and empowerment. The company also practices a form of community engagement by fostering a network of local artisans and small businesses. In terms of charitable giving or direct community support, there are indications of involvement, though on a relatively small and possibly ad-hoc basis.
