Alternative eco-fabrics to organic cotton
July 25, 2009 by Jennifer Chait
Filed under Green Living
We hear a lot about organic cotton but you should know that it’s not the only sustainable fabric in town. There are plenty of other eco-fabric options available for clothing, bedding, and other textiles.
Hemp – Hemp fabric is made from the cannabis plant – but don’t go trying to smoke it! Hemp is THC free. Hemp plants can be grown well without pesticides and grow with less water than many other plants. Hemp is ideal for bags especially because it’s a sturdy fabric (harder to rip), is naturally stain resistant, and won’t easily shrink or fade.
Organic bamboo baby clothing and gear
Bamboo – Bamboo plant fibers can be made into fabric for just about anything and is naturally resistant to bacteria and insects. Keep in mind that organic bamboo is a better choice than conventional, especially since bamboo can be grown well without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Bamboo also wicks away wetness and odor – exercise and baby clothing perfect!
Recycled cotton reusable grocery tote
Recycled cotton – Recycled cotton is cotton fabric made from recovered cotton that’s cast off during the spinning, weaving or cutting process. Recycled cotton also is made without harsh chemicals.
Recycled period – While thrift store clothing, towels, and bedding may not necessarily be made with eco-materials they are eco-friendly. It’s super sustainable to reuse items again and again until the end of their life. When you shop for used fabric items you cut out the landfill, new manufacturing and packaging, and get a great deal to boot.
These are all great alternatives. One other one which is hard to think about in the middle of the heat wave, is wool. Wool is great on so many levels. Here’s a nice list of the advantages http://www.cozyforbaby.com/whymerinowool.html