New year, new start. January is the month of change – and what’s better than making changes for your health and the planet? Veganuary is the official name for going vegan for January, whether you want to try it out before committing full-time or want to have a fantastic health kick. So, whether you’re going vegan for a month or making it a long-term change, having the right essentials makes it much easier (and way more fun!). From food to fragrance, here’s your guide to Veganuary essentials – because going plant-based isn’t just about what’s on your plate.

What Are the Must-Have Veganuary Essentials?

Making the switch can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s everything you need to make your Veganuary smooth, sustainable and enjoyable.

1. Stock Up on Plant-Based Pantry Staples

If you’ve got the right ingredients, whipping up delicious vegan meals is no different than regular meals. Make sure you have:

• Legumes & pulses – Chickpeas, lentils and black beans for easy protein-packed meals.

 

• Plant milks – Oat, almond, soy or coconut—find your favourite for coffee and cooking.

 

• Meat alternatives – Jackfruit, tofu, tempeh and seitan can replace meat in loads of dishes.

 

• Dairy-free cheese – Vegan cheese has come a long way – there are some seriously good options out there now.

 

• Nutritional yeast – Adds a cheesy, umami flavour to meals (plus it’s a great source of B12).

 

2. Vegan Beauty & Skincare That Works

While you may think going vegan is just about food, it’s also about what you put on your skin. Loads of beauty products still contain hidden animal ingredients or are tested on animals. Time to make the switch:

• Vegan moisturisers & Serums – Look for plant-based ingredients like aloe vera and hyaluronic acid.

 

• Cruelty-free makeup – No need to compromise on quality – there are so many great brands now.

 

• Vegan perfume – Did you know many traditional fragrances contain animal-derived ingredients? Eden Perfumes offers incredible, cruelty-free alternatives that smell amazing.

 

3. Vegan Candles & Clean Scents

Your home deserves a Veganuary makeover, too! Ditch synthetic, animal-derived scents and switch to natural, plant-based alternatives:

• Soy wax candles – Burns cleaner than paraffin and is completely vegan.

 

• Essential oil diffusers – A fresh way to scent your space without chemicals.

 

• Vegan candles – Many candles contain beeswax or other animal products—opt for Eden’s vegan candles instead, made with natural soy wax and plant-based fragrance oils.

 

 

4. Sustainable & Ethical Fashion Choices

Veganism goes beyond food—what you wear also matters. Fast fashion often uses leather, wool and silk, but there are great alternatives:

• Vegan leather – Brands are making stunning bags, jackets and shoes from cork, pineapple leather (Piñatex) and recycled plastic.

 

• Ethical footwear – Veja, Will’s Vegan Store, Loci Wear and other brands offer stylish, sustainable shoes.

 

• Cruelty-free handbags – Say no to leather and opt for high-quality, animal-free materials.

 

5. Living More Mindfully & Ethically

Veganuary is a lifestyle. Small swaps make a big difference:

• Support ethical brands – Choose companies that prioritise sustainability and cruelty-free products.

 

• Reduce plastic waste – Reusable shopping bags, water bottles and bamboo cutlery go a long way.

 

• Stay inspired – Watch documentaries like Cowspiracy and The Game Changers to stay motivated.

Happy Veganuary

Going vegan for the month of January is about making choices that align with your values. Whether you choose vegan perfumes, candles, beauty products or fashion, small changes add up. 

Ready to stock up on Veganuary essentials?