In a world where sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration, it’s not surprising that individuals & businesses around the globe are seeking new ways to reduce their carbon footprint. The clothing industry is no exception. We have seen a surge in popularity for our eco-friendly clothing range over recent years, as people around the world become more conscious of their impact on the environment. So, we thought it would be a good idea to take a closer look at what materials are most commonly used to make sustainable clothing around the world. If you fancy reading more about this matter in general, check out our recent report on sustainable fashion & its importance to the clothing industry.
Without any further ado, let’s dive in & explore the top five sustainable clothing materials that are gaining popularity in the fashion world and beyond.
Organic Cotton – Versatile, Comfortable & Durable
When it comes to ethical clothing, organic cotton is by far one of the most commonly used and versatile materials. Organic cotton is grown without the use of harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilisers; instead farmed using natural methods like crop rotation or biological pest control to protect their crops. By choosing organic cotton, you’re not only supporting ethical farming practices but also reducing the environmental impact associated with traditional cotton production. In addition to this, many consider organic cotton to be superior in quality and durability compared to traditional cotton. So, not only are you helping to reduce your impact on the environment, but you will also be blown away by the quality of your eco-friendly t-shirt or hoodie if you opt for organic cotton.
Recycled Polyester – Giving Old Plastic A New Life
Recycled polyester, sometimes referred to in the industry as rPET, is another fantastic sustainable clothing material. Recycled polyester differs from organic cotton in the sense that it is not only made by using eco-friendly production methods but, as the name would suggest, is made from recycled plastic bottles and other consumer waste. This helps reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills or oceans around the world, whilst creating a new clothing garment that can be used for many years. By recycling waste plastic materials, we reduce the need for traditional polyester production, which has a much larger carbon footprint. But that’s not all! Recycled polyester offers the same quality and durability as its conventional counterpart, meaning your eco-friendly rPET garments will last for many years. It goes to show, it genuinely is worth going to the effort of recycling waste plastic. After all, you never know if you might just end up wearing that discarded bottle one day!
Hemp – Natural, Durable & Breathable
Hemp is a plant that has deservedly gained recognition over the last decade, due to its many fantastic properties. Hemp has become one of the most popular natural ingredients within the personal care industry over recent years. But, what does hemp have to do with being a sustainable clothing material? Hemp fabric is a true game-changer; it is naturally resistant to pests when being cultivated which eliminates the need for harmful pesticides. Aside from this, hemp production requires significantly less water compared to most crops and the material is incredibly durable and long-lasting. This sustainable clothing material becomes softer with each wash while retaining its strength and shape.
Bamboo – A Fast-Growing Natural Wonder
Bamboo has grown in popularity over recent years, due to its broad application as a sustainable material for many purposes. With applications in furniture, kitchenware, and many other day-to-day utensils, bamboo also has a growing use as a sustainable clothing material. As one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth, bamboo can be harvested in a responsible manner without depleting forests. Bamboo requires no pesticides or fertilisers when being grown, making it a very eco-friendly choice. In addition to the superb impact bamboo clothing has on the environment, it offers exceptional softness & breathability as a sustainable clothing material.
Wool – Production Dependent
While wool is known for its warmth and durability, its sustainability depends on how responsible the method of production is. Ethical wool production involves protecting the welfare of sheep, promoting regenerative grazing practices, and avoiding the use of harmful chemicals. Unlike the other sustainable clothing materials on the list, wool stands out as it involves animal welfare considerations. Ethical wool production ensures that sheep are not subjected to any procedures which could be harmful to their well-being.
How Our Clothing Helps Support Sustainability
As the world embraces the need for sustainability, the clothing industry is undergoing a major shift towards eco-friendly materials. At My Personalised Clothing, we understand the importance of sustainability. We are genuinely committed to creating a greener future which is why we offer a range of hoodies, t-shirts and polo shirts, all made from sustainable clothing materials. If you’d like to find out more about our ethical clothing range, please get in contact with our team.
