When acquiring a wardrobe, we acknowledge that our choices extend beyond mere fashion statements. Whether for the better or worse, we are also influencing the environment. Therefore, when it comes to clothing and fabrics, we advocate for prioritizing quality over quantity. Opting for sustainable textiles and eco-friendly materials is an excellent way to emphasize both quality and environmental consciousness.
Environmentally-friendly textiles bring numerous advantages to the planet, your closet, and even your finances. We’ll explore queries such as “what constitutes sustainable fabrics?” and “is cotton biodegradable?” However, before delving into those, let’s establish a clear understanding of what sustainable fabric truly entails. Materials for sustainable clothing are derived from eco-friendly sources, such as sustainably cultivated fiber crops or recycled materials. The sustainability of these fabrics is also influenced by the methods used in their manufacturing process.
How can you identify sustainable fashion materials while perusing clothing racks? It’s all about checking the labels! Keep an eye out for the following labels when you’re aiming for an eco-friendly purchase:
BLUESIGN
Certified Organic
GOTS Organic
OEKO-TEX
SA8000
Union-Made Private Labels
Fair Trade
Which sustainable fabrics should you seek on clothing tags? There’s a diverse range of eco-friendly fabrics to consider, with some popular options including bamboo, industrial hemp, recycled polyester, wool, TENCEL, soy cashmere/silk, and sustainable cotton.
Cotton is typically not regarded as sustainable due to its high water usage, pesticide reliance, and the utilization of land that could be used for other crops. However, when it’s organic cotton, the narrative changes. Organic and sustainable cotton is a sought-after fabric for ethical shopping, as it is cultivated and processed in a manner that reduces environmental impact while supporting livelihoods and communities.
Is cotton biodegradable? Absolutely! As a natural fabric, this sustainable textile is fully biodegradable
Another highly sought-after sustainable clothing material is viscose, but its sustainability hinges on the manufacturing process.
Viscose is a semi-synthetic type of rayon fabric derived from wood pulp and is often utilized as a silk alternative. Variants like Lyocell, Tencel, Modal, and Refibra are produced from sustainable forests, employing a more environmentally friendly chemical process that avoids harmful substances. The production of Lyocell, for instance, is entirely waste-free, with every byproduct being recycled in some manner. This sustainable material boasts qualities such as absorbency, lightweight feel, breathability, and softness.
Is viscose biodegradable? Yes, it is! While viscose may not be the most eco-friendly material available, it stands as a commendable biodegradable fabric in comparison to acrylic, nylon, and polyester.
In summary, sustainable fashion materials are designed to be highly durable and easy to care for. Machine washing is generally suitable for these items, but it’s advisable to check the tags for specific instructions.
With a better understanding of shopping for sustainable fabrics, you can now make informed choices, whether considering the biodegradability of viscose or identifying certifications on clothing tags. Taking these steps brings you closer to enhancing your wardrobe while contributing to the well-being of our planet.
Sources:
https://www.greenamerica.org/choose-fair-labor-responsible-shopper/introduction-sustainable-clothing2
http://cottonupguide.org/why-source-sustainable-cotton/what-is-sustainable-cotton/
https://www.masterclass.com/articles/fabric-guide-what-is-viscose-understanding-viscose-fabric-and-how-viscose-is-made#what-is-the-difference-between-viscose-and-polyester
https://www.comfortworld.co.uk/sustainability/what-we-need-to-know-about-sustainable-fabrics.html
https://www.sateri.com/why-viscose/#:~:text=Cellulose%20pulp%20from%20sustainably%2Dmanaged,other%20petroleum%2Dbased%20synthetic%20fabrics.