Eco-friendly Brand Spotlight: Black and Blum

Black and Blum is a London-born lifestyle brand offering a range of unique, sustainable drinkware, reusable containers and accessories that are built to last. Each product has been uniquely designed in their London studio, focusing on every detail to ensure each product is carefully considered for repeated lifelong use. Using materials sourced to the highest standard for durability, Black and Blum put their heart and soul into every product they make.

Offering a leakproof, travel-friendly, compact alternative to wasteful single-use coffee cups and plastic water bottles, Black and Blum have created a unique range of reusable travel mugs, and accessories made from BPA-free, food-safe materials. Keep reading as we highlight the most commonly asked questions surrounding this sustainable brand.

What is Black and Blum’s company mission?

Founded over 20 years ago by Dan Black and Martin Blum, Black and Blum is an eco-design company that uses innovative and sustainable design principles that ensure each piece created is thoughtfully developed and built to last. Dedicated to the ethos of creating products that people love to use and are proud to own, Black and Blum’s company mission is to create unique, durable products that are built to last and become a part of customers’ daily routines. They believe that each product develops a ‘soul’ when it becomes cherished by the owner, becoming a valued part of their everyday lives.

Another of their company missions is to focus on sustainability. Black and Blum aim to use as many recycled and biodegradable materials as possible. Most products are made from non-plastics like wood, cork, glass and stainless steel that are functional, durable and age well, ensuring a longer life for each product that equals less environmental impact from single-use products and over-production. The cork used in some of Black and Blum’s best-selling products is harvested through an environmentally friendly process that ensures the tree’s continued life, in addition to the use of bamboo from the fast-growing crop, which self-regenerates from its roots.

Is Black and Blum sustainable?

Yes, proudly climate-neutral certified, Black and Blum aim to put the future of the planet first when creating a convenient, functional solution to everyday essentials. Conscious of the environmental impact that manufacturing can have, Black and Blum use innovative and sustainable design principles that help to eliminate the production of single-use packaging. Instead, they ensure the materials used are high-quality, durable and built to last, helping to encourage people to live more sustainable lifestyles, living by the philosophy of ‘buy once, buy well’. From concept to final product, Black and Blum ensures rigorous research is conducted so that each product meets a real need and will last a lifetime.

As proud members of 1% for the Planet, Black and Blum are committed to sustainability and donate 1% of their annual sales to local environmental charities and non-profit organisations.

Is Black and Blum microwave safe?

Yes, some Black and Blum lunch boxes are safe to use in the microwave. Made from reusable, food-safe materials, these lunch boxes are perfect for taking food on the go that can be easily warmed up in the microwave. Most Black and Blum lunch boxes are made from BPA-free polypropylene, tritan™ and silicone that are suitable for use in the microwave, however, the stainless steel lunch boxes and lids are not microwave-safe, therefore we suggest reading the specifications of the individual product before microwave use.

Is Black and Blum dishwasher safe?

Yes, a lot of the Black and Blum lunch boxes and water bottles are dishwasher-safe, however, there are certain elements that we recommend washing by hand. Any lid or silicone strap on lunchboxes should be washed by hand and the rest of the product can go in the dishwasher. It’s important to note that you should not use any cleaners containing chlorine or bleach, abrasive cloths or scrubbers as they can dull the finish of your product.

How do you clean a Black and Blum water bottle?

Cleaning your water bottle regularly is important to prevent any build-up of harmful bacteria, algae or mould that may occur with frequent use and varying types of liquids. We recommend washing your bottle with a bottle brush and hot, soapy water each day, ensuring you let it thoroughly drain and dry afterwards. Our glass reusable water bottles can be cleaned in the dishwasher, however, the cork lids, silicone elements and any stainless steel water bottles are not dishwasher safe and should be cleaned by hand.

In order to prevent any unwanted smells from clinging to your bottle, we advise against keeping any milk products or baby food in the stainless steel bottles. If your bottle gets any unwanted stains or smells, you can fill the bottle with hot water, add one teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda and leave it to soak overnight. Make sure if you choose this method of cleaning to not put the lid on and to rinse well before use. Alternatively, you can also use a vinegar and warm water solution. To prevent smells, store with the lid off when not in use. 

BLACK + BLUM explorer insulated bottle 850ml	BLACK + BLUM Insulated travel cup 340ml

If you’re looking for a convenient solution to carrying your favourite beverage with you, the  Explorer insulated bottle is the perfect option for you. Made from stainless steel with vacuum insulation, this bottle ensures liquids stay cold for up to 24 hours and hot for up to 12 hours. Featuring reinforced structural ribs on the body for strength and improved grip, a leak-proof design and a smooth spout for comfortable drinking, this reusable bottle is a great choice for those looking to stay hydrated on the go.

If you’re looking for a more compact everyday water bottle, the insulated travel cup is the one for you. Featuring a functional one-handed opening and closing, lockable lid and push-up dining spout, this smaller reusable water bottle keeps drinks hot for up to 5 hours and cold for 8 hours. 100% leak proof with a lockable design, this bottle is perfect for fitting in bike bottle cages, car cup holders or the side of backpacks. 

Make sustainable switches with Black and Blum

If you’re looking to make the switch to more sustainable everyday essentials, Black and Blum is the brand for you. Whether you’re looking for a reusable solution to your morning coffee or a convenient, leak-proof way to transport your lunch, Black and Blum have got you covered. Shop the full Black and Blum collection at the Eden Project Shop today to find the perfect reusable solution for you.