Simply Gentle
Simply Gentle is a plastic-free-by-design brand for this category: its cotton buds use an FSC-certified paper stem and 100% organic cotton, the whole bud is compostable, and the box is plastic-free recyclable card. It is exactly the eco-forward version of the paper-stick swab - no plastic stem, organic fiber, and certifications (Soil Association, FSC) to back the claims.
How clear are their specs?
Clearly states the paper stem, organic-cotton tip, FSC and Soil Association certifications, and plastic-free packaging.