Best Solar Flood Lights: Our Recommendations
- Best Overall: AmeriTop Motion-Sensor Lights
- Best Light Bar: TBI Pro Super-Bright Outdoor Solar Lights
- Best Compact Lights: Kolpop Solar Security Lights
- Best Street-Style Light: RuoKid Solar Street Lights
Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. Learn more about our review methodology here. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn a commission.
Full Reviews of Our Top Picks
Best Overall: AmeriTop Motion-Sensor Lights
ameritopdeal.com
This high-quality motion-sensing solar flood light from AmeriTop boasts super-bright LEDs for top-notch security. Highly efficient solar panels and LEDs mean lighting whenever and wherever it’s needed, and a 26-foot motion-sensing radius ensures nothing can get close to your house without getting some serious time in the limelight.
Key Features:
- 800-lumen output
- 20% efficient poly solar panels
- 26-foot radius motion sensor
- Wide 270° lighting area
- Automatic on and off
- Adjustable light head and sensor
- IP65 waterproof rating
- Fixed solar panels
Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars with over 18,000 Amazon ratings
Standout Review: "It was exactly what I was looking for. They are easy to install, just the right size and project a lot of light. Love that it is solar.” — Joshua via Amazon
Why Buy: The AmeriTop triple-head outdoor flood light is a robust solution for exterior lighting needs, featuring high-intensity LED bulbs, a quick charge time, a wide flood angle and motion-sensing areas, and IP65 waterproofing. Short of the sun itself, there’s no better solar security floodlight for your home.
Best Light Bar: TBI Pro Super-Bright Outdoor Solar Lights
tbi-store.com
The TBI Pro ultra-bright solar motion sensor flood light can illuminate up to 1,600 square feet, making it perfect for walls, posts, paths and gardens. Each light fixture casts a searing 2,500-lumen ocean of light, adding security and comfort to any exterior. This model has three lighting modes, so if you don’t need to burn a hole in the dark, you can select a different mode to set a lighter ambiance. From outdoor security to entertaining, these are a great choice.
Key Features:
- 2,500-lumen output
- 1,600-square-foot lighting area
- Super-wide 280° lighting angle
- Motion-detection up to 40 feet
- 12-hour runtime with 4,400 mAh battery
- Three lighting modes
- Automatic on and off
- IP65 waterproof rating
- Fixed solar panels
- Two units per purchase
Customer Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars with over 1,300 Amazon ratings
Standout Review: “Wow! These things are really bright! Much brighter than we had anticipated. The motion sensor device is neither too sensitive or not sensitive enough — it's just right.” — Light-Zone via Amazon
Why Buy: These high-power solar flood lights prove great things can come in small, affordable packages. You get two super-bright 2,500-lumen bar lights with three brightness settings, a wide lighting angle and superior motion sensitivity reach. And at under $65, they’re perhaps the best value you can buy.
Best Compact Lights: Kolpop Solar Security Lights
Kolpop
Small but tremendous, Kolpop’s Solar Security Lights package offers six 800-lumen solar-powered security lights, each capable of illuminating over 320 square feet. Three brightness settings give you the power to adjust lighting to fit the occasion, from a chill get-together to all-night security.
Key Features:
- 600-lumen output
- 120° motion detection area with 16-foot range
- 8- to 10-hour runtime
- 8- to 10-hour charge time in full sunlight
- 1,800 mAh battery
- Three lighting modes
- IP65 waterproof rating
- Fixed solar panel
Customer Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars with over 4,000 Amazon ratings
Standout Review: “I love these lights and have bought two packages for our country home … I installed these four months ago and am totally satisfied so far. They don't last as long on overcast days, but that's to be expected.” — Donald via Amazon
Why Buy: Six feature-packed solar security flood lights at an amazing price. These suffer a bit on charge time, output and motion/lighting angles, but their affordability and modularity mean you can install them anywhere you so desire. They’re a great buy for folks who want compact solar security wall lights.
Best Street-Style Light: RuoKid Solar Street Lights
RuoKid
There are several reasons to abandon the traditional flood light style, and RuoKid’s street-style solar flood lights encompass them all. Exceptional brightness, a cool urban design, and an adjustable solar panel and light head make these perfect for brightening dark driveways, patios, front door entryways and more.
Key Features:
- 1,500-lumen output
- Illuminates 970 square feet
- Aluminum alloy housing and mounting hardware
- 4 to 6 hours in full sunlight for full charge
- 8-hour runtime
- 5-year warranty
- IP67 waterproof rating
- Remote controlled
- Adjustable solar panel
Customer Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars with over 1,100 Amazon ratings
Standout Review: “This light stays on from dusk until dawn with full sun the day before. I installed it as a security light. I live in a rural area with no street lights, and it works perfectly compared to other lights I have purchased..” — Yardman11236 via Amazon
Why Buy: RuoKid designs its products for use on the street, so they’re made to withstand years of heavy-duty service. This awesome 1,500-lumen street-style solar flood light combines power, capacity, durability and function into an attractive, modern design.
How to Choose the Best Solar-Powered Flood Lights
A single doorway doesn’t need 2,500 lumens, nor is a single solar-powered flood light sufficient for lighting up a driveway. Before choosing the best solar-powered flood light, consider the following factors:
- Brightness: In general, brighter is better, but if you only need to light a small area, you might not have to fork over the extra cash for a higher-output unit. If you want to cover a large area with a single bright light, go for at least 1,600 lumens. Or, install multiple lights with a smaller output.
- Features: Today’s solar-powered flood lights are ripe with features. Most have multiple brightness settings and weatherproofing as standard features, but consider other important elements such as remote controls, adjustable/modular solar panels, tilt and pan adjustments for lights and sensors, and metal constructions. As always, the more features, the higher the price, but the investment will be worth it.
- Durability: All of our picks are waterproof, but you may want a light that’s truly built to last. The RuoKid Solar Street Light has an all-metal design and is made to take a beating. Look for weatherproof lights that will hold up through multiple seasons.
- Ease of installation: Compared to their wired counterparts, solar-powered flood lights are a breeze to install. Some require more assembly and mounting than others, so if you’re not on friendly terms with your toolbox, pick a solar flood light that requires little more than a screw to install.
Frequently Asked Questions: Solar Flood Lights
Do solar flood lights really work?
As long as they have consistent daylight for at least a few hours, solar flood lights work exceptionally well. They utilize the same sensor technology as their wired counterparts but require no wiring and have an overall simpler installation thanks to their built-in solar panels.
What is the brightest solar LED flood light?
TBI Pro Super-Bright Outdoor Solar Lights have an impressive 2,500-lumen output. These are some of the best solar flood lights if brightness is your top priority.
How long do solar-powered flood lights last?
As far as runtime, most solar flood lights provide uninterrupted lighting for 8 to 12 hours. Assuming a solar light has no defects and is installed and used as intended, a solar flood light battery will last 3 to 4 years before needing replacement. Other components of a solar flood light can last up to a decade or more.
What is the most powerful solar security light?
TBI Pro Super-Bright Outdoor Solar Lights are the most powerful solar LED security lights on our list.
Christian Yonkers is a writer, photographer, filmmaker, and outdoor junkie obsessed with the intersectionality between people and planet. He partners with brands and organizations with social and environmental impact at their core, assisting them in telling stories that change the world.
Komodo dragons are on the brink of extinction. The largest lizards species in the world, they can grow to be 10 feet long and weigh over 300 pounds, according to the World Wildlife Fund. Last year, their IUCN Red List status changed from vulnerable to endangered, raising concern around the world about the iconic species' survival. Rising seas and loss of habitat due to climate change are to blame.
“Those involved in the conservation of Komodo dragons have been alarmed for some time concerning their overall wild numbers due to habitat loss, potential trafficking, etc. but the recent down-listing from vulnerable to endangered has raised the level of concern a few notches,” Craig Pelke told EcoWatch. It was a lifelong dream of the herpetologist to work with Komodos, and he does so now as the director of ectotherms for the zoo.
Currently, less than 1,400 mature adults of the apex lizard are estimated to remain, a San Antonio Zoo press release noted. These live on a few Indonesian Islands — their only natural habitat — and in zoos. Because they are endemic to those islands, which include the World Heritage-listed Komodo National Park, the reptiles have nowhere to retreat to as those islands become fragmented or submerged by rising seas, The Guardian reported.
Pelke explained, “[The dragons have] a strong preference for lower elevation areas… and this habitat will be the first to disappear as the oceans rise and begin to cover the land.”
That dire reality makes this most recent zoo breeding success monumental for the species' future.
The parents of this batch of baby dragons were Kristika, a resident female dragon at the San Antonio Zoo, and Boga, a male from the Houston Zoo, the zoo press release noted. They successfully bred last winter, and Kristika laid eggs on March 8 of this year. Incubation typically lasts 7 to 9 months, Pelke noted, and the first of the ten babies hatched on Oct. 17.
San Antonio Zoo’s resident female Komodo dragon, Kristika, successfully bred with a male, Boga, from the Houston Zoo last winter. Mandy Woodburn / San Antonio Zoo
“It’s like a dream to have 10 little babies running around,” said Tim Morrow, the president and CEO of the San Antonio Zoo, to The Washington Post. “It’s another important step forward in sustaining the Komodo dragon’s survival.”
Before their birth, there were 123 adult dragons in North American zoos, Pelke told the Post. The latest brood includes four females, two males and four with genders yet to be determined.
“We’re really excited to add another 10 to that group,” Pelke said in the news report. “It’s wonderful to take their numbers in the other direction.”
Baby Komodo dragons are brighter green than mature adults, and their scales darken with age. Mandy Woodburn / San Antonio Zoo
Under Pelke’s direction, the San Antonio Zoo has coordinated three different hatchings of Komodo dragons. He noted that the successful hatching of 10 dragons from 22 eggs in the clutch is a good rate. Dragons are not social pack animals, instead preferring solitary living, he explained. This makes breeding management and planning complicated because each adult dragon will eventually need its own space at a facility to avoid possible aggressions with another individual.
“In the long run, 10 is a very successful but manageable number,” Pelke told EcoWatch.
Morrow said in the zoo press release, “The hatchlings are thriving, and we are looking forward to watching them grow and help preserve the existence of Komodo dragons.”
The baby dragons will all be sent to other zoos when they're older to act as ambassadors for their species. There are no current plans to release captive dragons back into the wild. Pelke explained why: “One of the biggest factors that must be asked — is there any wild to release them into? One of the Komodo dragons biggest issues is loss of habitat (human encroachment, oceans rising), so the problem is not so much actual numbers of dragons but actually [the] amount of usable habitat.”
The expert added, “If habitat is restored/gained, and the natural populations cannot recover on their own, then releases could play a role in helping to save the wild populations” in the future.
Tiffany Duong is a writer, explorer and inspirational speaker. She holds degrees from UCLA and the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School. As a contributing reporter at EcoWatch, she gives voice to what's happening in the natural world. Her mission is to inspire meaningful action and lasting change. Follow her on Twitter/Instagram/TikTok @tiffmakeswaves.
- Will Climate Change Drive the Komodo Dragon to Extinction ... ›
- New IUCN Green Status of Species to Highlight Conservation Wins ... ›
Best Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats: Our Recommendations
- Best Overall: Hugger Mugger Earth Elements Yoga Mat
- Most Recommended By Instructors: Manduka eKO Lite Yoga Mat
- Best Recycled Mat: SUGA Recycled Wetsuit Yoga Mat
- Most Socially Conscious Company: Liforme Love Yoga Mat
- Best Biodegradable Mat: 2nd Wind Yoga Mat
Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Why Switch to an Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat?
What is the best material for a yoga mat? If you’re eco-conscious, it isn’t polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is typically used to make flexible, firm and sticky yoga mats. It’s also the third highest produced synthetic plastic polymer made in the world, with over 40 million tons of PVC produced annually, according to Ullman’s Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry.
However, you may find that some greener yoga product companies do include PVC in their materials, just not as much. PVC is difficult to recycle, and its lifetime recyclability is limited. The greener companies that make yoga mats with PVC are thoughtful enough to take back each yoga mat for recycling once its life cycle is complete. Other companies that repurpose difficult-to-recycle materials also often take this approach.
When looking for an eco-friendly yoga mat, consider one made of sustainable cork, recycled natural tree rubber and other recycled materials. Avoid chemically treated yoga mats.
5 Best Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats
Best Overall: Hugger Mugger Earth Elements Yoga Mat
Hugger Mugger
Biodegradable, toxin-free and recyclable, the Hugger Mugger brand of yoga mats stands out. The company prides itself on being one of the first to manufacture sustainable yoga mats from thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), which can be recycled after use. It’s a trusted brand that many yoga enthusiasts keep coming back to over the years.
The Earth Elements line has a closed-cell construction that’s grippy and prevents the accumulation of sweat and odor. Many reviewers like the feel of the lightweight yet high-performance yoga mats from Hugger Mugger. The mats come in sky blue and teal onyx colorways.
Customer Rating: 4.5 out 5 stars with about 75 Amazon ratings
Standout Review: “This has been my primary mat for 8 years; after using the first one for over 6 years, I bought a second one, as the first one had started to wear a bit. Even so, the older one still is a functional mat and is used for play at home.” — Niehaus via Amazon
Why Buy: Need a biodegradable mat that will hold up for several years with care? This one stands out for long-term use and is lightweight enough for those looking for a travel yoga mat, according to reviewers.Most Recommended By Instructors: Manduka eKO Lite Yoga Mat
Manduka
Manduka is committed to manufacturing eco-friendlier yoga mats that are designed to last. Manduka's eKO Mats are made from biodegradable natural tree rubber and manufactured with zero waste and no harmful plasticizers.
While its PRO mats are manufactured from PVC, Manduka takes back all yoga mats through its Live On program, breaking them down and recycling them. The company ensures that all of its mats are created without toxic chemicals and dyes, and they’re often recommended by yoga teachers.
Customer Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars with almost 250 Amazon ratings
Standout Review: “Although these mats are expensive, they’re totally worth the investment. I always feel stable when I get on this mat. My hands and feet do not slide, especially when I am flowing hard and sweating.” — Dee via Amazon
Why Buy: Want to revamp your yoga routine with eco-friendlier mats and accessories? Manduka is a top brand chosen by yoga instructors around the world. Customer reviews note you should air out the mat after opening it but that it’s light and supportive.
Best Recycled Mat: SUGA Recycled Wetsuit Yoga Mat
Suga
Suga, a California-based yoga mat company, makes mats with recycled neoprene wetsuits, reducing environmental impacts with its designs. The company’s process stops wetsuits from entering landfills, and you get a quality yoga mat made from donated materials. If you are a diver or surfer, you can donate your wetsuit at one of the company’s partner stores to receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. For every wetsuit recycled, roughly one SugaMat is created.
If it ever wears out or you just want another yoga mat, send your used one back to Suga for recycling. Suga also supports 1% for the Planet, so a portion of all sales goes to environmental nonprofits.
Customer Rating: 4.4 out 5 stars with over 70 Amazon ratings
Standout Review: “I love this mat for hot yoga — no need for bringing a towel to cover your mat! This is thicker and slightly heavier than other mats I've used, but I love how it feels. I feel extra grounded when using this mat. It looks super cool, too, and I enjoy seeing the small bits of really colorful wetsuits. I saw the comment about crumbles, cleaned it with a microfiber cloth before using it and didn't have any issues.” — #1 Customerrrr via Amazon
Why Buy: Prefer a thicker yoga mat made by a company that perpetually recycles its mats? Neoprene is made from petroleum and can’t be recycled, but Suga set up a successful system that benefits both the yoga practitioner and the planet.
Most Socially Conscious Company: Liforme Love Yoga Mat
Liforme
Designed under the premise of "Good for you, Good for the planet," Liforme mats are non-toxic, PVC-free and biodegrade within one to five years. The brand prides itself on being eco-friendly, ethical, and socially just. As such, it makes its mats with the highest-quality materials and focuses on charitable giving with each purchase.
Liforme donates 5% of sales from two of its yoga mat collections and has raised over $200,000 for charity partner Friends of the Earth. It also supports social justice causes like women and children's rights, racial diversity, and LGBTQ+ rights.
Liforme’s AlignForMe System helps yogis navigate the mat and is perfect for beginners or at-home practicing. The mats are also slightly larger and longer than the average yoga mat. Many reviews applaud the grip of this mat’s material, which resists the slips of sweaty feet and hands.
Customer Rating: 4.6 out of almost 5 stars with almost 190 Amazon ratings
Standout Review: “I practice a heated vinyasa flow, and am generally dripping sweat within the first 10 mins. I have used Yogitoes towels for the past 10 years but always found the grip to slip. I am happy to report that the Liforme mat has so far withstood the sweatiest of classes.” — Amanda via Amazon
Why Buy: You want a sustainable yoga mat that breaks down like it says it does and gives back to the community like it says it does. Or maybe you get really sweaty during yoga (raising my hand here) and need a mat that can handle that and more.
Best Biodegradable Mat: 2nd Wind Yoga Mat
2nd Wind
No glue, latex, PVC or toxins present here — just biodegradable eco-goodness. 2nd Wind is based in Rhode Island and is renowned for its intricate and sustainable yoga mats, which are made with 100% natural cork and rubber and are decorated with water-based ink. Let’s just say the Root to Rise design will inspire your morning flow.
Many 2nd Wind yoga mats have a natural rubber face for support, but this particular model has a towel heat-pressed to its rubber base for added grip. Instead of having to purchase a secondary yoga mat cover, these mats help prevent slipping with their soft surface.
Customer Rating: 3.3 out of 5 stars with under 10 Amazon ratings
Standout Review: “I love the design and silky feel, but it is a bit too slippery for down dog poses.” — Lok Wong via Amazon
Why Buy: Your yoga practice is an art form, and you want a high-quality, latex-free mat that reflects that. This natural rubber yoga mat also lowers your environmental footprint with its eco-friendly materials.
FAQ: Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats
What should I look for when buying a yoga mat?
When shopping for an eco-friendly yoga mat, avoid chemically treated mats or mats made with PVC. Look for more natural and sustainable materials, such as cork yoga mats or those made with another recycled material. If the material cannot be recycled naturally, ensure the brand has a take-back option for its yoga mats.
As always, check whether the yoga mat you’re considering has your preferred texture for grip and cushioning for support. Thicker yoga mats provide more therapeutic support but may be harder to travel with.
How do you clean an eco-friendly yoga mat?
Most manufacturers suggest cleaning your mat at least every five uses. Avoid using harsh chemicals to clean your yoga mat. A clean cotton towel and a few drops of natural dish soap diluted with water make for thorough, non-toxic yoga mat cleaning.
Some yoga practitioners prefer using diluted essential oils to clean their yoga mats. Be careful if you try this, as you may have a sensitivity to essential oils.
Are yoga mats bad for the environment?
Yoga mats made from PVC are difficult to recycle and, if they are, can only be recycled so many times. Choosing a more sustainable material that is biodegradable is less harmful to the environment.