Natural fiber clothing is back in style, and there’s a very good reason why. Not only do they breathe better than their synthetic counterparts, but they are also much more eco-friendly than the traditional stuff you’re used to seeing on the racks at your local department store.
One of the biggest advantages of natural fibers is how gentle they are on your skin, making them perfect for kids with sensitive skin, eczema, and/or sensory processing disorders.
What is natural fiber clothing?
From cozy cotton and luxurious wool to eco-friendly hemp and lightweight linen - natural fibers offer the ultimate in comfort. These fabrics keep you warm when it's chilly, and cool when it's hot. Best of all, they come straight from nature!
What are the types of natural fibers?
Natural fibers for clothes are fabrics made from sustainable plant or animal-based sources. These fibers are more environmentally friendly and ethical than synthetic fabrics. Common examples of plant-based natural fibers include cotton, silk, linen, hemp, rayon (modal), and lyocell. Animal-based natural fibers for clothes include wool (cashmere), alpaca fleece, camel hair, and spider silk. Note that fur and leather are absent from the animal-based natural fibers list because both pose risks to animal welfare, and thus are not considered sustainable.
While people have worn natural fiber clothes for centuries, they have become more popular in recent years due to rising awareness of issues with fashion industry waste and pollution generated by the production of synthetic fabrics like polyester. Natural fibers, like organic cotton, are also available with environmental and ethical certifications, such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), which ensures clothing has been held to the highest standards of sustainability and ethics throughout the entire production process.
There are many natural fiber advantages
There are many natural fiber advantages including improved comfort, softness, and durability. This means they are wonderful for sensitive skin in all seasons and eco-friendly because of their extended useful life. Natural fibers also require less water to produce, are processed with fewer and less harmful chemicals, and are biodegradable. This combination means that using natural fibers for clothes reduces risks to both human and environmental health. Further, natural fibers are often used by fair trade or ethical manufacturers that ensure the safety and well-being of the fashion workers who make the garments. All in all, when you choose natural over synthetic materials for your clothes, you'll feel great knowing that you'll enjoy more comfort while supporting the well-being of fashion industry workers and the health of our environment.
8 Reasons to switch to natural fiber clothing
Here are five reasons why you should make the switch from conventional fabric clothing to natural fiber clothes!
1. Breathable
Clothing made from natural fibers is softer and more breathable than conventionally and synthetically produced material. Natural fibers are highly permeable. The permeable fabric allows excess heat (sweat) and odors to pass through, meaning that your clothes will feel great against your skin all day no matter what the weather. Natural fibers are especially wonderful for people who suffer from sensitive skin, allergies, and eczema.
2. Absorbent
Have you ever seen a polyester workout shirt marketed as "moisture wicking"? Well, the reality is that synthetic fabrics like polyester actually repel water, which makes you sweat and keeps moisture held against your skin. Natural fibers are far more absorbent than synthetic fabrics. What does that mean for you? Clothing made from natural fibers will help you stay drier and more comfortable.
3. Gentle on Skin
Since natural fibers are breathable and naturally antimicrobial, they are the perfect choice for sensitive skin. Natural fibers are especially wonderful for people who suffer from sensory disorders, allergies, and eczema.
4. Durable
Natural fibers are more durable and last longer than synthetic fibers. Be sure to take good care of your clothing to maximize its useful life. Machine wash cold and lay flat to dry to keep your clothing looking like new.
5. Sustainable
Natural fibers have less environmental impact than synthetic fibers. Natural fibers, especially organic fibers, are made with fewer chemicals, require less water for processing, and generate fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
6. Biodegradable
Natural fibers like cotton and wool break down faster than synthetic fibers like polyester. In a landfill, 100% cotton clothing decomposes in 1 to 5 weeks. In comparison, polyester clothing takes approximately 200 years to decompose and leeches harmful chemicals into the surrounding ecosystem.
7. Ethical
Many sustainable clothing brands using natural fibers are also dedicated to higher ethical and environmental standards. Look for clothing that is GOTS, Fair Trade, or B Corporation Certified.
8. Cost-Effective
While many perceive clothing made from natural fibers to be expensive, there are lots of options available at comparable cost to clothes made from synthetic fabric. Given its durability, clothing made from natural fibers is cost effective on a "per wear" basis.
References:
Broadhead, R., Craeye, L., & Callewaert, C. (2021). The Future of Functional Clothing for an Improved Skin and Textile Microbiome Relationship. Microorganisms, 9(6), 1192. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms9061192
https://www.panaprium.com/blogs/i/advantages-natural-fibers
