Tom's of Maine began when Tom and Kate Chappell left the city in 1968 to pursue a simpler life, closer to nature and were dissatisfied with the availability of natural personal care options for themselves and their children. From this small start, Tom's of Maine grew and developed into a different kind of company, one based on the belief that people and nature deserve respect. Troubled by the lack of consensus on definitions for terms like "natural" and "sustainable" they have developed a stewardship model under which clear and transparent definitions and standards are developed and maintained. For instance for product to be labeled "sustainable" it must originate from recyclable or renewable plant-based resources, strive to reduce waste through recycled content, recycling, and biodegradability and promote the use of sustainable growing and harvesting practices. Their Stewardship program also includes standards that make them responsible to their consumers including research on safety and efficacy, transparency of ingredients, sources from suppliers and regions with basic human rights, honesty in all ingredient packaging and product claims, and compliance with all regulatory authorities. Their most popular Tom's of Maine products include Tom's of Maine Wicked Fresh! Mouthwash Cool Mountain Mint 473 ml, Tom's of Maine Children's Fluoride-Free Toothpaste Silly Strawberry 90 ml and Tom's of Maine Long Lasting Beautiful Earth Deodorant 1 Stick.
