Top 10 Eco-Friendly Fabrics You Need to Know
The selection of eco-friendly fabrics is a step toward reducing the environmental impact and as such. Sustainable fashion continues to rise. The development of those fabrics stems from renewable resources alongside less required water, energy and pollution. Here are the top 10 eco-friendly fabrics to consider for a greener wardrobe.
#1. Organic cotton
Organic cotton is an eco-friendly fabrics that is soft and breathable compared to conventional cotton as it is grown without the application of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers during farming. Additionally, it is instrumental in making modern textiles like home and clothing needs as it is biodegradable. Most importantly, its usage in farming practices promotes the conservation of water and soil which creates a safer environment alongside a positive outlook toward farmer’s well-being.
#2. Hemp
One of the fastest-growing plants, hemp does not require the use of pesticides alongside water, which widens its scope of sustainability. As such, it proves to be extremely helpful in soil health restoration, as well as absorbing possible higher carbon dioxide quantity than many other plants. Most importantly, hemp outperforms other materials like cloth, bags and home decor items stemming from hemp serving as a durable, breathable and naturally bactericidal fabric.
#3. Linen
Derived from the flax plant, linen is grown with very little water and, fewer chemicals. It is eco-friendly, one of the oldest fabrics, and known for being highly durable and lightweight, Additionally, linen is fully biodegradable, highly breathable, and becomes softer with every wash, making it a timeless choice for sustainable fashion.
#4. Bamboo Fabric
Without the use of pesticides, bamboo grows rapidly making it an environmentally friendly resource. However, the manufacturing process differs. Mechanically processed bamboo is the most eco-friendly option. Bamboo is naturally antibacterial, moisture-wicking, and incredibly soft which makes it a great eco-friendly fabric for undergarments, socks and sleepwear.
#5. Recycled Cotton
Recycled cotton is made from post-industrial and post-consumer waste, thus reducing landfill waste, this eco-friendly fabrics helps to promote circular fashion while maintaining the softness and breathability of virgin cotton. This makes it a go-to option for casual wear, denim, and accessories for environmentally conscious shoppers.
#6. Piñatex (Vegan leather)
As one of the eco-friendly fabrics, Piñatex is made of dried pineapple leaves, and fibre waste from the fruit industry. This assists in lowering the waste produced by animal skin tanning and the eco-friendly chemicals used in the process. Piñatex i also a widely accepted fabric in the moral fashion industry because of its durability and style in accessories and footwear.
#7. Econyl (Recycled Nylon)
Econyl is a sustainable material produced by recycling ocean waste such as fishing nets and industrial nylon shoelaces. It is an excellent nylon alternative for clothing manufacturers because it helps in cleaning marine environments and at the same time, reduces the consumption of crude oil. These eco-friendly fabrics are in most cases used for activewear, swimwear and ‘sponsored by brand’ fashion clothes.
#8. Modal
Another eco-friendly material is Modal, which is produced from cellulose fibres harvested from the beech tree. Modal has been produced through a less energy-hungry and environmentally destructive procedure. This lightweight, air permeable and softer-than-cotton fabric is perfect for supporting comfort wear and activewear as well as sustainable fashion brands.
#9. Cork fabric
Cork fabric, or cork leather, is considered one of the most sustainable fabrics since it originates from the bark of cork oak trees. Since the trees themselves are not damaged during the harvesting, it is possible to renew this resource. Any-and-all exco-friendly cork fabric is water-resistant durable and vegan, thus being a superb leather used in bags, shoes and other accessories.
#10. Cupro
Cupro is a fabric made of recycled cotton linter which is a product of cotton production, making it another fabric in the list of eco-friendly fabrics. For those who are vegan, Cupro serves as an alternative to silk because of its soft texture. While manufactured in a closed-loop system like Tencel, Cupro is known as an environmentally friendly fabric because it is soft, breathable, and biodegradable. It is used primarily in luxurious fashion and evening gowns.
Conclusion
The move towards eco-friendly fabrics helps combat negative environmental impacts while supporting the fashion industry, which is powerful in and of itself. Every option, be it organic cotton, hemp or innovative materials like Piñatex and Econyl, helps contribute to a greener planet. Do you want to assist in making a change? Start utilizing these fabrics in your wardrobe today!
We hope this list of Top 10 eco-friendly fabrics gave you a good starting point for you to build something that stand the test of times. If you are looking to start a clothing brand, we recommend that you read our guide – how to start a clothing brand.
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