Fashion Fabrics
Read your clothes' labels and tags like nutrition facts -
buy what's healthy and avoid what's toxic!
Get the scoop below:
WHAT TO WEAR
natural fabrics
Look for: organic, regenerative, recycled, dye-free (ideally)
Organic Cotton
Organic cotton is a common natural, breathable fabric option.
Organic Hemp
Hemp is one of the most sustainable fabrics out there. It's durable, insulating and cooling; it doesn't need much water to grow; and doesn't need chemicals to be processed. (Source)​
Organic Linen
Made from the flax plant, linen is a great, comfortable and natural option.
Recycled or Regenerative Wool
*This fabric has animal cruelty issues
If buying recycled or secondhand wool, this fabric is eco-friendly and you don't have to worry about animal welfare concerns. If you have to buy new wool, look for regenerative wool.
Recycled Nylon
Best for things you don't wash frequently (like coats or bags). This fabric can be made from things like fishing nets or tights, reducing waste.
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*This fabric still has a microplastics issue.
Recycled Polyester
Best for things you don't wash frequently (like backpacks or shoes). Often made from recycled plastic water bottles, this fabric repurposes plastic waste.
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*This fabric still has a microplastics issue
WHAT TO AVOID
plastics
Acrylic
Acrylic is a fabric made from petroleum through a chemical-filled process.
Polyester
Polyester is a petroleum-based fabric made using chemicals.
Nylon
Nylon is a fabric made from petroleum.
sneaky bad guys
DON'T BUY THESE NEW
Rayon/Viscose
Rayon is made by taking plants and dissolving them in a chemical solution to make the fabric (Source). Other than chemical use, this fabric also contributes to deforestation, high water use and animal endangerment.
Leather
Animal cruelty concerns aside, 130 chemicals are used in the leather-making process, including "biocides, surfactants, enzymes, lime, sodium sulfide, dyes, and various solvents" (Source).
Traditional Cotton
The problem with regular cotton: the widespread use of toxic and environmentally damaging pesticides. (Source)
