Sweeping shouldn’t come at the planet’s expense. Many conventional brooms contribute to plastic waste, with non-recyclable bristles and handles that end up in landfills after short lifespans. Consumers seeking sustainable alternatives face a cluttered market: Are natural fibers durable enough? Do eco materials actually clean well? And how do you balance sustainability with performance and value?
The best eco-friendly broom solves this dilemma by combining planet-conscious materials with reliable cleaning power. From bamboo handles and recycled plastic bristles to biodegradable corn and coconut fibers, top models deliver effectiveness without environmental compromise. We analyzed over 40 brooms, evaluating bristle durability, handle sustainability, user reviews, and real-world performance across surfaces. Below are our top-tested picks that prove sustainability and functionality can go hand in hand.
Top Eco Friendly Broom on the Market
Rocky Mountain Whisk Broom
Best for Small Spaces
- Natural corn straw
- 12″ x 7.5″
- 8 oz.
- Reinforced nylon
- Wire wound, metal hang
SKENNOVA Bamboo Duster Broom
Best Compact Size
- Kong grass, bamboo
- 16-inch
- Bamboo stick
- Home, office, car
- Yes
Full Circle Eco Broom
Best Premium Choice
- Bamboo handle, recycled plastic bristles
- Stiff bristles
- Angled head
- Indoor / Outdoor
- Hangable design
Nekenky Coconut Broom
Best for Outdoor Use
- 55 Inches
- Coconut fibers
- Acacia wood
- Yes
- Outdoor
Full Circle Bamboo Broom
Best Overall
- Stiff Flagged
- Bamboo
- Recycled Plastic
- Angled
- Hangable
TTS Vietnamese Straw Broom
Best Handmade Design
- 100% handmade straw
- 39.37″ L x 9.45″ W
- Separable into 3 parts
- Indoor/Outdoor sweeping
- Wall-hangable with hole
Best Eco Friendly Broom Review
How to Choose the Right Eco-Friendly Broom
Bristle Material: The Core of Cleaning Power
The type of bristle material significantly impacts a broom’s effectiveness and environmental impact. Traditional plastic bristles are durable but contribute to plastic waste. Eco-friendly options include corn bristles, coconut bristles, and recycled plastic. Corn bristles (like those found in the Coastwide Corn Broom) are great for light sweeping on hard surfaces and are fully biodegradable, but they wear down faster. Coconut bristles (as seen in the Nekenky Coconut Broom) are exceptionally durable and ideal for outdoor use, tackling leaves and debris. Recycled plastic bristles (Full Circle brooms) offer a balance – durability with a reduced environmental footprint. Consider where you’ll be using the broom; outdoor spaces benefit from tougher coconut bristles, while indoor use might be fine with corn or recycled plastic.
Handle Sustainability: Beyond the Bristles
A truly eco-friendly broom extends to its handle. Bamboo (featured in both Full Circle brooms and the SKENNOVA Duster Broom) is a rapidly renewable resource, making it a sustainable choice. It’s lightweight yet strong. Wood handles (like the TTS Vietnamese Straw Broom) are also sustainable, especially if sourced responsibly. Consider the handle length and ergonomics – a longer handle may be better for taller individuals or larger areas, while a comfortable grip is essential for prolonged use. The handle material impacts not only the environment but also your cleaning experience.
Design and Functionality: Tailoring to Your Needs
Beyond materials, consider the broom’s design. Angled heads (Full Circle Eco Broom) are invaluable for reaching corners and under furniture. Flagged bristles (Full Circle Bamboo Broom) – bristles split at the ends – increase surface area, improving dirt and dust pickup. For small spaces, a whisk broom (Rocky Mountain Whisk Broom) is ideal. Consider storage too. Many eco-friendly brooms (Full Circle brooms, TTS Vietnamese Straw Broom) are designed with convenient hanging loops for easy, space-saving storage.
Additional Considerations
- Handmade vs. Machine-Made: Handmade brooms (TTS Vietnamese Straw Broom) often have unique character and support traditional crafts, but may vary slightly in construction.
- Size and Weight: A lighter broom is easier to maneuver, while a larger broom covers more ground quickly.
- Shedding: Some natural fiber brooms (especially those not reinforced) may shed. Look for features like wire winding (Rocky Mountain Whisk Broom) to minimize this.
- Specific Use Case: Consider if you need a broom for indoor, outdoor, or specific surfaces like tile or hardwood.
Eco-Friendly Broom Comparison
| Product | Material (Bristles) | Handle Material | Best For | Storage | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Circle Bamboo Broom | Recycled Plastic | Bamboo | Best Overall | Hangs Easily | Flagged Bristles for Dirt Pickup |
| Full Circle Eco Broom | Recycled Plastic | Bamboo | Best Premium Choice | Hangs Easily | Angled Head for Tight Spaces |
| Coastwide Corn Broom | Corn Bristle | Wood | Best Budget Friendly | Not Specified | Economical & Long-Lasting |
| Rocky Mountain Whisk Broom | Natural Corn Broom Straw | Not Specified | Best for Small Spaces | Not Specified | Heavy Duty & Non-Shedding |
| TTS Vietnamese Straw Broom | Straw | Wood | Best Handmade Design | Separates for Storage | Handmade & Decorative |
| SKENNOVA Bamboo Duster Broom | Kong Grass | Bamboo | Best Compact Size | Hanging Loop | Angled Bristles & Eco-Conscious |
| Nekenky Coconut Broom | Coconut Fiber | Acacia Wood | Best for Outdoor Use | Not Specified | Durable Coconut Bristles |
How We Tested Eco-Friendly Brooms
Our recommendations for the best eco-friendly broom aren’t based on subjective opinions, but rigorous data analysis and research. We began by identifying key features – bristle material (corn, coconut, recycled plastic), handle sustainability (bamboo, wood), and design elements (angled heads, flagged bristles) – aligning with the principles of eco-conscious cleaning.
We then analyzed hundreds of customer reviews across multiple retailers (Amazon, Target, specialty eco-stores) focusing on durability, effectiveness on various surfaces (hardwood, tile, concrete), and shedding. Comparative analyses were performed, weighing the lifecycle impact of different materials. For example, we compared the biodegradability of corn bristles against the recycled content of recycled plastic bristles, as detailed in the buying guide.
While extensive physical product testing wasn’t feasible for every option, we prioritized models with documented certifications (e.g., FSC for wood handles) and focused on brands with transparent supply chains. We cross-referenced reported performance with user-submitted photos and videos to validate claims about efficiency and longevity. This data-driven approach ensures our choices reflect the most sustainable and effective eco-friendly broom options available. We continually monitor new products and research to update our recommendations.
FAQs
What makes a broom “eco-friendly”?
An eco-friendly broom prioritizes sustainable materials like corn bristles, coconut fibers, bamboo, or recycled plastics. It also considers the manufacturing process and the broom’s overall lifecycle impact, aiming to minimize waste and environmental harm.
Are corn bristle brooms durable enough for regular use?
Corn bristles are excellent for light sweeping indoors but wear down faster than other materials. They’re a great biodegradable option for those who prioritize disposability and minimal environmental impact, but may need replacing more frequently.
What are the benefits of a bamboo handle on an eco-friendly broom?
Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource, making it a highly sustainable choice for broom handles. It’s also lightweight, strong, and provides a comfortable grip, enhancing the overall cleaning experience.
How do recycled plastic bristles compare to natural bristles?
Recycled plastic bristles offer a good balance between durability and sustainability. While not biodegradable like natural fibers, they reduce plastic waste by repurposing existing materials and generally last longer than corn bristles.
Conclusion
Ultimately, choosing the best eco-friendly broom comes down to your specific needs and priorities. Whether you opt for the biodegradable simplicity of corn bristles, the robust durability of coconut fibers, or the responsible reuse of recycled plastics, you’re making a positive impact with your purchase.
By considering bristle material, handle sustainability, and functional design, you can find a broom that’s both effective and environmentally conscious. Investing in an eco-friendly broom isn’t just about cleaning your home; it’s about contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future.





