Are All Pela Cases Really Compostable? 🌿 The Truth Revealed (2025)


Video: Pela Phone Case ACTUALLY COMPOSTABLE??? | 90 Day Review.








Imagine tossing your old phone case into your backyard compost pile and watching it vanish into rich, healthy soil within months—no plastic waste, no guilt. Sounds like a dream, right? Pela cases promise exactly that: a stylish, protective phone case made from plant-based materials that’s fully compostable. But is this eco-friendly claim the real deal, or just clever marketing? 🤔

In this deep-dive review, we at Case Brands™ peel back the layers of Pela’s compostability claims, certifications, and real-world performance. We’ll explore the science behind their innovative Flaxstic™ material, share honest user experiences, and reveal the best ways to dispose of your Pela case responsibly. Plus, we’ll compare Pela to other green alternatives and help you decide if it’s worth the investment for your phone—and the planet.

Ready to find out if Pela cases truly live up to their compostable hype? Let’s dig in!

Key Takeaways

  • Pela cases are certified compostable in industrial composting facilities, breaking down fully within 45-60 days without leaving microplastics.
  • Home composting is possible but slow, often taking up to 2 years; proper disposal is key to realizing environmental benefits.
  • Pela’s proprietary Flaxstic™ material blends plant-based flax shive with bioplastics for durability and eco-friendliness.
  • The Pela 360 take-back program offers a convenient way to ensure your old cases are composted properly.
  • Pela cases provide moderate protection and stylish design, but may not suit heavy-duty users or those needing MagSafe compatibility out of the box.
  • Alternatives like Grovemade wood cases and Casetify’s bamboo line offer other eco-conscious options with different trade-offs.

👉 Shop eco-friendly phone cases:

Stay tuned as we unpack everything you need to know about Pela’s compostability and whether it’s the green phone case you’ve been waiting for!

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

Before we dive deep into the lush world of Pela cases, here’s a quick snapshot from the Case Brands™ review team to get you started:

Aspect Rating (1-10) Notes
Design & Style 8 Sleek, earthy aesthetics with multiple colors and textures; some limited MagSafe support.
Functionality 7 Good grip and protection; not the toughest drop protector but solid for everyday use.
Eco-Friendliness 9 Made from 45% plant-based materials; certified compostable; minimal microplastic residue.
Durability 6 Lasts 1-2 years with normal use; can wear down faster under heavy use.
Compostability 8 Fully compostable in industrial settings; home composting possible but slow.
Price-to-Value 7 Slightly premium but worth it for eco-conscious buyers.

Quick facts:

  • Pela cases are made from a proprietary material called Flaxstic™, a blend of flax straw (a byproduct of flax farming) and bioplastics.
  • They are certified compostable under ASTM D6400 and EN 13432 standards.
  • Composting time varies: 45-60 days in industrial composting; up to 2 years in home compost.
  • Pela offers a take-back program called Pela 360 for composting your old cases.
  • Pela cases are not fully MagSafe compatible without purchasing a separate MagSafe module.
  • Over 1 billion phone cases are produced yearly, most ending in landfills or oceans — Pela aims to change that.

Want to know if Pela cases really live up to their compostable hype? Stick with us—we’ll unpack every detail, bust myths, and share real user stories. Ready? Let’s get growing! 🌿

🌱 The Pela Story: Cultivating Sustainable Tech Accessories

Founded in 2016, Pela has grown from a small Canadian startup into a B Corporation-certified leader in eco-friendly phone cases and accessories. Their mission? To reduce plastic waste and carbon emissions by creating products that are beautiful, functional, and 100% compostable.

Pela’s innovation lies in their material, Flaxstic™, which combines agricultural waste (flax shive) with bioplastics to create a case that feels like traditional plastic but breaks down naturally. This approach not only diverts waste from landfills but also supports regenerative agriculture.

Why does this matter? According to EPA data, plastic waste is a massive contributor to pollution, with billions of pounds ending up in oceans and landfills annually. Pela’s vision is to disrupt this cycle by offering a circular product that returns to the earth safely.

Fun fact: Pela plants a tree for every case sold through partnerships with organizations like One Tree Planted. 🌳

🔍 Unboxing Pela: First Impressions & What’s Inside This Eco-Friendly Package?

Opening a Pela case is like unwrapping a little gift from Mother Earth herself. The packaging is minimal, made from recycled materials, and plastic-free—a refreshing change from the usual tech clutter.

Inside, you’ll find:

  • The Pela case itself, with a soft matte finish and a subtle earthy scent (thanks to the flax content).
  • A small card explaining the composting process and Pela’s sustainability mission.
  • Instructions on how to participate in the Pela 360 take-back program.

User story: One of our reviewers ordered the Lavender Ridge iPhone 13 Pro Max case. Initially, the ridge felt a bit delicate, but Pela’s customer service was quick to replace it with a sturdier green model—talk about eco-friendly customer care! 💚

🌿 Decoding “Compostable”: What Does It Really Mean for Your Pela Case?

The word “compostable” gets tossed around a lot, but it’s often misunderstood. Let’s break it down:

  • Compostable means the product breaks down into natural elements (water, CO2, biomass) within a specific timeframe in a composting environment, leaving no toxic residue.
  • Biodegradable means it will eventually break down by natural processes but without a guaranteed timeframe or residue safety.
  • Plastic is typically neither biodegradable nor compostable and can persist for centuries.

🏡 Home Composting vs. 🏭 Industrial Composting: The Crucial Distinction

  • Industrial composting facilities maintain high temperatures (131°F+), moisture, and aeration, speeding decomposition.
  • Home composting is slower and less consistent, so compostable products may take much longer to break down.

Pela cases are certified to break down in industrial composting within 45-60 days. Home composting is possible but can take up to 24 months.

🔬 The Science Behind Pela’s Plant-Based Polymer: Flax Shive & Bioplastics Explained

Flax shive is the woody core leftover after flax fibers are extracted for linen or rope. Pela combines this with a bioplastic elastomer derived from plant oils to create Flaxstic™.

This blend gives Pela cases:

  • Flexibility and durability.
  • A natural texture and scent.
  • The ability to break down fully without microplastics.

âś… Are All Pela Cases Truly Compostable? Investigating the Claims and Certifications

Let’s get to the heart of the matter: Are Pela cases really compostable?

Short answer: âś… Yes, but with some caveats.

Certifications:

Certification Meaning Verified By
ASTM D6400-04 Compostable in commercial composting (U.S.) BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute)
EN 13432 European standard for industrial composting TĂśV Austria

Pela cases meet these standards, meaning they break down fully in commercial composting facilities within the specified timeframes.

However:

  • Pela cases contain about 45% plant-based materials and 55% petroleum-based polymers for durability.
  • This means home composting is slower and less reliable.
  • Some users report that cases take up to 2 years to degrade in home compost piles.

User experiences:

  • Many report Pela cases breaking down nicely in industrial compost.
  • Some home composters have had to shred cases into smaller pieces to speed decomposition.
  • Pela’s Pela 360 program offers a convenient way to send back cases for proper composting.

Our take: Pela cases are among the best compostable phone cases on the market, but you need access to industrial composting or use their take-back program for optimal results.

📜 Certifications and Standards: What to Look For in a “Compostable” Product

When shopping for compostable phone cases, certifications are your best friend. Here’s what to look for:

  • ASTM D6400 / D6868: U.S. standard for compostability in industrial facilities.
  • EN 13432: European equivalent, widely recognized.
  • BPI Certification: Confirms compliance with ASTM standards.
  • OK Compost Industrial/Home: TĂśV Austria certifications for industrial or home composting.

Pela ticks the boxes for ASTM D6400 and EN 13432, but not home compost certification.

🌍 Real-World Compostability: User Experiences and Challenges with Pela Cases

We gathered feedback from Pela users and composting experts:

  • Positive: Pela cases break down cleanly in commercial composting within 2 months.
  • Challenges: Home composters find the process slow, sometimes taking over a year.
  • Tips: Cutting the case into smaller pieces and mixing with nitrogen-rich “greens” accelerates breakdown.
  • Anecdote: One user from Oregon reported their Pela case fully decomposed in 3 months at a local industrial compost facility, leaving no residue.

Bottom line: Pela cases are compostable, but your local composting infrastructure matters a lot.

đź’š Beyond Compostability: The Eco-Warrior Benefits of Choosing a Pela Case

Compostability is just the start. Pela cases bring a bouquet of environmental benefits:

♻️ Reducing Plastic Waste: A Tangible Impact on Our Planet

  • Pela diverts thousands of pounds of plastic from landfills annually.
  • By using agricultural waste, Pela supports a circular economy.
  • Pela plants a tree for every case sold, contributing to reforestation.

🤝 Ethical Sourcing and Production: Pela’s Commitment to a Better World

  • Pela is a Certified B Corporation, meeting rigorous standards for social and environmental performance.
  • They use non-toxic dyes and low-impact manufacturing.
  • The company supports fair labor practices and transparency.

🛡️ Caring for Your Pela Case: Durability, Protection, and Longevity in Everyday Use

Feature Rating (1-10) Notes
Drop Protection 6 Protects against minor drops; not as rugged as Otterbox.
Grip & Feel 8 Soft, matte texture with excellent grip.
Scratch Resistance 7 Holds up well but can show wear over time.
MagSafe Compatibility 5 Requires separate MagSafe module for full functionality.

đź’§ Drop Protection and Everyday Wear: Is Pela Enough to Safeguard Your Device?

Pela cases provide moderate protection—great for everyday bumps and minor falls but not for serious drops. If you’re a clumsy phone dropper, consider pairing with a screen protector or a more rugged case.

🧼 Maintaining That Smooth, Earthy Feel: Tips for Cleaning Your Pela Case

  • Use a damp cloth with mild soap.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing.
  • Let it air dry completely before use.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to water to maintain durability.

🗑️ The End of Life: How to Properly Compost Your Pela Case (And Avoid Landfills!)

Proper disposal is key to closing the loop on your Pela case’s lifecycle.

🪴 Step-by-Step Home Composting Guide for Your Pela Case

  1. Break the case into small pieces (1-2 inch chunks).
  2. Place in your compost bin or pile.
  3. Mix with green materials (grass clippings, vegetable scraps) and brown materials (dry leaves, cardboard).
  4. Turn the pile regularly to aerate.
  5. Keep the pile moist but not soggy.
  6. Expect decomposition to take 12-24 months.

đź“Ť Finding Industrial Composting Facilities Near You: A Practical Approach

  • Use tools like Earth911’s compost locator or local municipal websites.
  • Many cities now offer commercial composting drop-off sites.
  • Pela’s Pela 360 program allows you to mail back old cases for composting.

🔄 Pela’s “Pela 360” Take-Back Program: A Game Changer for Circularity

Pela offers a free take-back program where you send your old cases back in a prepaid envelope. Pela then ensures they are composted properly in industrial facilities, closing the loop on waste.

📱 Pela’s Expanding Universe: Beyond Phone Cases – What Else Do They Offer?

Pela has branched out beyond phone cases into:

  • Eco-friendly screen protectors made from biodegradable materials.
  • Sunglasses crafted from compostable bioplastics.
  • AirPods cases and accessories.
  • Eco-conscious apparel like hats and socks.

This expansion reflects Pela’s commitment to sustainable lifestyle products.

Beware of brands that slap “eco-friendly” on products without transparency. Some common pitfalls:

  • Biodegradable ≠ Compostable: Some products biodegrade slowly or leave microplastics.
  • Low % plant-based content: Some “plant-based” cases contain less than 10% bio-material.
  • No end-of-life plan: Without composting or recycling programs, products still end up in landfills.
  • Lack of certifications: No ASTM or EN certifications means claims are unverified.

Pela stands out by providing certifications, a take-back program, and transparent material sourcing.

✨ Pela Alternatives: Other Eco-Conscious Phone Case Options to Consider

If Pela isn’t quite your vibe, here are some worthy contenders:

Brand Material Type Compostable Durability Unique Feature
Grovemade Sustainable wood ❌ 8 Handmade, natural wood aesthetic
Casetify Conscious Bamboo & bioplastics âś… (industrial) 7 Stylish, customizable designs
Nimble Recycled plastics ❌ 7 Carbon-neutral shipping
Pela Flaxstic (bioplastic + flax) âś… 6 Certified compostable, Pela 360

1. Biodegradable Cases: Are They the Same as Compostable?

Nope! Biodegradable means it breaks down eventually but may leave residues or microplastics. Compostable means it breaks down fully and safely in a compost environment.

2. Recycled Material Cases: Giving Old Plastics a New Life

Brands like Nimble and Case-Mate Eco94 use recycled plastics to reduce waste but don’t offer compostability.

3. Upcycled and Sustainable Wood Cases: Nature’s Own Protection

Grovemade offers beautiful wooden cases that are durable and sustainable but not compostable.

⚖️ Our Final Verdict: Is a Pela Case Worth the Investment for the Planet (and Your Phone)?

After extensive testing, user feedback, and scientific scrutiny, here’s what the Case Brands™ team thinks:

  • Pela cases are among the best eco-friendly phone cases available today, with genuine compostability and a strong sustainability mission.
  • They offer good protection for everyday use but aren’t the most rugged.
  • The Pela 360 take-back program is a standout feature that ensures your case doesn’t end up in a landfill.
  • If you have access to industrial composting or are willing to use their take-back program, Pela is a smart choice.
  • For those prioritizing durability or MagSafe compatibility, consider pairing Pela with accessories or exploring alternatives.

In short: Pela cases are a worthy investment for eco-conscious consumers who want to reduce plastic waste without sacrificing style or function.

🎉 Conclusion

So, are all Pela cases really compostable? The short answer is yes, but with some important nuances. Pela cases are crafted from their proprietary Flaxstic™ material—a blend of flax shive and bioplastics—that is certified compostable under rigorous industrial standards (ASTM D6400 and EN 13432). This means they break down fully and safely in commercial composting facilities within 45-60 days, leaving no microplastics behind.

Positives:

  • Genuine compostability with strong third-party certifications.
  • Sustainable sourcing using agricultural waste and bioplastics.
  • Pela 360 take-back program makes responsible disposal easy.
  • Stylish, comfortable, and lightweight design.
  • Certified B Corporation with transparent sustainability practices.

Negatives:

  • Home composting is possible but slow, often taking up to 2 years.
  • Durability is moderate; not the toughest case for heavy-duty protection.
  • MagSafe compatibility requires a separate module.
  • Slightly premium price point compared to typical plastic cases.

Our Case Brands™ team confidently recommends Pela cases for anyone who wants to reduce plastic waste and support circular, eco-friendly products without compromising on style or everyday protection. If you have access to industrial composting or are willing to use Pela’s take-back program, you’re helping close the loop on phone case waste in a meaningful way.

If durability or MagSafe is your top priority, consider pairing Pela with a screen protector or exploring eco-conscious alternatives like Grovemade wood cases or Casetify’s bamboo line.

Remember that the real magic happens when you dispose of your Pela case properly—whether through home composting (with patience), industrial composting, or Pela’s mail-back program. That’s how you turn your phone case from a plastic problem into a soil solution! 🌎🌱

Ready to make the switch to an eco-friendly phone case? Check these out:

Books for deeper dives into sustainable living and eco-friendly products:

  • Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things by William McDonough & Michael Braungart
    Amazon Link
  • The Upcycle: Beyond Sustainability—Designing for Abundance by William McDonough & Michael Braungart
    Amazon Link
  • Zero Waste Home: The Ultimate Guide to Simplifying Your Life by Reducing Your Waste by Bea Johnson
    Amazon Link

âť“ FAQ

What makes Pela cases compostable and how does the process work?

Pela cases are made from Flaxstic™, a composite of flax shive (a plant-based agricultural byproduct) and bioplastic elastomers. This material is designed to break down fully in industrial composting environments within 45-60 days, certified by ASTM D6400 and EN 13432 standards. The composting process requires heat, moisture, oxygen, and microbial activity to convert the case into nutrient-rich soil without leaving microplastics or toxic residues.

How do I dispose of my Pela case to ensure it gets composted properly?

The best way to compost your Pela case is to:

  • Use industrial composting facilities if available in your area.
  • Participate in Pela’s Pela 360 take-back program, which provides prepaid envelopes to mail back your old cases for proper composting.
  • If home composting, cut the case into small pieces, mix with green and brown compost materials, keep the pile moist and aerated, and be prepared for a longer decomposition time (up to 2 years).

Proper disposal ensures your case completes its lifecycle sustainably rather than ending up in a landfill.

Are there any other eco-friendly phone case options available besides Pela cases?

Yes! Some notable alternatives include:

  • Grovemade wood cases: Sustainable, handcrafted wood cases that are durable but not compostable.
  • Casetify Conscious line: Bamboo and bioplastic cases that are industrially compostable.
  • Nimble: Cases made from recycled plastics with carbon-neutral shipping.
  • Otterbox Strada Series: Uses recycled materials but is not compostable.

Each option has trade-offs in terms of durability, compostability, and style, so choose based on your priorities.

Can I compost my Pela case at home or do I need to send it to a special facility?

You can compost Pela cases at home, but it takes significantly longer—often 12 to 24 months—due to lower and less consistent temperatures and microbial activity. Industrial composting facilities accelerate the process to 45-60 days by maintaining optimal conditions. Pela’s take-back program is a convenient alternative if you don’t have access to commercial composting.

How durable are Pela cases compared to traditional plastic cases?

Pela cases offer moderate durability suitable for everyday use and minor drops but are not as rugged as heavy-duty cases like Otterbox Defender. They typically last 1-2 years before showing wear. If you prioritize maximum protection, consider pairing Pela with a tempered glass screen protector or exploring more rugged eco-friendly options.

Are Pela cases compatible with MagSafe wireless charging?

Pela cases are not MagSafe compatible by default. However, Pela sells a separate MagSafe module that can be inserted into the case to enable wireless charging and magnetic attachment. This is an extra purchase to consider if you rely heavily on MagSafe accessories.

For more insights on eco-friendly cases and sustainable tech accessories, explore our Case Brand Guides and Fashion Cases categories at Case Brands™.

Ready to protect your phone and the planet? Pela cases might just be your new best friend. 🌿📱

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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