Fabric labels can be confusing, and many claims are vague. Every fibre has environmental costs, from water and land use to chemicals and energy.
The most sustainable choice is often a durable garment you will wear many times, whatever it is made of.
Natural fibres
- Cotton: comfortable and versatile, but conventional cotton can use large amounts of water and pesticides; organic cotton avoids synthetic pesticides
- Linen: made from flax, which generally needs less water and fewer inputs, and it is durable
- Wool: warm and long-lasting, and often needs washing less frequently
- Hemp: hardy crop that grows quickly with relatively few inputs
Synthetic fibres
Polyester, nylon, and acrylic are derived from fossil fuels and shed microfibres. Recycled versions reduce the use of virgin materials, though they still shed fibres.
Regenerated fibres
Lyocell and modal are made from wood pulp. Some production processes recover and reuse chemicals in a closed loop.
Certifications to look for
Independent certifications for organic content, chemical safety, or responsible sourcing are more reliable than generic words like "eco" or "green".
Blends
Blended fabrics can be harder to recycle. If recyclability matters to you, choose single-fibre garments where practical.
This is general sustainability information. Recycling, composting, and disposal rules vary by municipality — check local guidance. Cost and energy savings are estimates and depend on your home and usage.