Sustainable Fabrics: How Eco-Friendly Are They Really?

There’s a lot of buzz around sustainable materials these days, but how do we know what’s truly eco-friendly and what’s just greenwashing? We often hear about materials like organic cotton, reclaimed fabric, linen, and TENCEL, but does using these automatically make clothing sustainable? The truth is, it’s more complicated than that.
 

To help clear things up, we’ve rounded up ten fabrics that genuinely live up to their eco-friendly claims, including recycled cotton, organic linen, hemp, TENCEL Lyocell, recycled wool, and innovative fibers like coffee charcoal fabrics and shell fabrics . With our experiences as a sustainable fabric supplier, we’ll break down what makes these materials stand out.
 

What are sustainable fabrics?

Here’s an easy way to think about sustainable fabrics—it's all about minimizing environmental impact and promoting ethical practices for both animals and people. These fabrics are made from renewable or recycled resources, using methods that reduce water, energy, and harmful chemicals. And most importantly, they don’t involve harming animals or exploiting workers. But here's something important to keep in mind: sustainable fabrics aren't perfect. Just because they're better for the environment doesn’t mean they’re completely pollution-free or harmless. They might have lower emissions than conventional fabrics, but they're not without impact, and there's definitely still room for improvement.

Right now, one of the common ways to make fabrics more sustainable is by using organic cotton, which skips the pesticides and chemical fertilizers. However, using recycled cotton is more ideal (and we’ll explain why later). Another is recycling materials, like turning plastic bottles or fishing nets into recycled polyester, which helps cut down on waste and saves non-renewable resources. Some fabrics, like Lyocell, are made using more efficient and less polluting processes.

 

How do we select?

When we pick out the most sustainable fabrics, we consider a lot of factors— such as how much water and resources are used, and how much waste is created during production. But it’s not just about the environment; we also think about things like animal welfare and whether the fabric was made using fair labor practices, avoiding child labor or underpaid workers. To us, sustainability not only means to care about the environment, but to care for all the beings on this planet, too. To give you a better idea, we’ve broken down all the factors we consider below:
 

1. What has the least environmental impact

Let’s take cotton, organic cotton, and recycled cotton for example. The WWF says it takes 2,700 liters of water to produce the cotton for just one T-shirt. But with organic cotton—grown without synthetic chemicals like fertilizers and pesticides—it’s a whole different story. According to the Soil Association, organic cotton uses only about 243 liters of water in comparison. So in this case, organic cotton can be seen as a sustainable fabric.

 

But is there an even more sustainable option? Absolutely. If you want to make the most responsible choice for cotton, go with recycled. Recycled cotton has a smaller impact compared to both conventional and organic cotton. It helps reduce water and energy use and keeps cotton clothes out of landfills. So, we’ve got a winner—recycled cotton will be our choice for cotton because it has a lower impact on the environment.

 

2. Does it involve animal cruelty?

If we’re using animals to make a profit, then these types of fabrics shouldn’t be considered sustainable. Animals raised for clothing are terrible not just for animals, but also for the planet. We’re talking about the 1.2 billion sheep farmed for wool and the millions of cows whose skins are turned into leather. Both of these animals, as ruminants, emit huge amounts of methane—a potent greenhouse gas that’s responsible for about a quarter of global warming. Plus, they take up massive amounts of land (even worse, fueling illegal seizures of indigenous land) that could otherwise support native ecosystems that help capture carbon. 

 

Despite this, animal-based textiles often get a pass as being natural and eco-friendly. It's common for the media and industry to misleadingly claim that animal-based fabrics are just byproducts of meat production and better for the environment—an idea that oversimplifies the reality of animal production. For example, wool shearing is often seen as a simple “haircut” for sheep, but the modern sheep industry is far from benign. Sheep endure painful procedures like tail docking and mulesing, where skin is cut from their hindquarters to prevent parasitic infections caused by selective breeding.

 

While some brands and certification programs have banned mulesing, that only scratches the surface of the cruelty in the wool industry. Numerous undercover videos have shown the harsh realities of wool production, with sheep being beaten, wounded, and roughly sheared by workers who rush through the process. Eventually, these animals are sent to slaughter.

 

Does that really sound sustainable? We don’t think so. That’s why any fabrics made from animal-based fibers won’t make it onto our list of sustainable options—not even recycled wool.

 

3. Labor exploitation

The global apparel, footwear, and accessories industry is notorious for its links to human rights abuses, labor violations, and environmental damage—issues that span the entire production process.

 

Workers in this sector often endure long hours for minimal pay, all while facing poor working conditions. Suppression of labor unions, gender and caste discrimination, and even child labor are still all too common. Textile workers also face health risks from exposure to harmful substances and operating dangerous machinery, often without proper protective gear.

 

The leather industry is a prime example of these labor and supply chain problems. Millions of people worldwide are involved in producing leather and manufacturing leather goods like clothing, footwear, and accessories. Most of this production happens in low- and middle-income countries, with China leading the way, followed by Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan.

 

Sustainable fabrics should care for the environment, animals, and people. We’re all connected, and if we want to bring harmony to the world, we need to choose fabrics that prioritize these values.
 

The most sustainable fabrics

There’s a lot of debate about which ones are actually better. Does plant-based always mean good, and synthetic always mean bad? What new, innovative materials are actually backing up their claims with solid evidence? And what about when we wash or dispose of these fabrics? Let’s find out.
 

1. Recycled cotton

As we mentioned above, we don’t choose conventional cotton or organic cotton because they are not so eco-friendly. Conventional cotton is one of the thirstiest and most chemical-intensive crops, requiring tons of pesticides that harm both the planet and the people who grow it; organic cotton is a better alternative but the organic cotton certification has faced scrutiny recently. Much of the fiber marketed as organic might not be, due to a certification system that’s vulnerable to fraud.

 

Since cotton is still the most popular and common fabric in the market, it’s hard to get away from it. But if you’re looking to make the most responsible choice, go for recycled cotton. Recycled or upcycled cotton can help reduce water and energy consumption while keeping cotton clothes out of landfills.

Read more: What is Natural Fabric? 5 Most Common Natural Fabric and Fiber Types

 

2. Organic hemp

Hemp is incredibly versatile—it’s used in food, building materials, cosmetics, and has been cultivated as a fabric for hundreds of years. It keeps you warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and gets softer with every wash. What’s great about hemp is that it’s grown worldwide, requires minimal water, needs no pesticides, and naturally enriches the soil it’s grown in—making it way better for the environment than many other crops. But, just because it’s hemp doesn’t always mean it’s organic. Some farmers still use harmful fertilizers, so when you’re buying hemp, make sure it’s organic and take a good look at the brand you’re supporting.

 

3. TENCEL Lyocell

TENCEL Lyocell is a human-made cellulosic fiber created by dissolving wood pulp, and it’s been gaining a lot of attention lately. TENCEL is said to be 50% more absorbent than cotton and requires less energy and water to make. What’s cool is that the chemicals used in its production are managed in a closed-loop system, where the solvent gets recycled, cutting down on harmful waste.

 

There’s also another version of this fabric called Refibra, which is made from upcycled cotton scraps. These scraps are transformed into cotton pulp and then mixed with regular dissolving wood pulp.

 

4. Recycled polyester

Recycled polyester, or rPET, is mainly made from recycled plastic bottles and other PET plastics. There are plenty of companies making fabrics from recycled bottles, but one that really stands out to us is SAYA. SAYA specializes in high-quality fabrics made from recycled bottles and overstock materials. They’ve innovated by creating fibers from four types of recycled components: garment offcuts, deadstock and overstock fabric, waste yarn, and recycled PET bottles. SAYA transforms single-use, low-value plastic bottles into durable, functional fibers. They recycle over 100,000 tons of plastic bottles each year—equivalent to 8 billion bottles—and turn them into performance fibers that are durable, functional, and recyclable.

 

What sets SAYA apart is that they skip the decolorization process, which keeps the original color of the fibers intact. This not only saves energy but also cuts down on carbon emissions.

Read more: What is Recycled Polyester? Is It Really Sustainable?

 

5. Recycled nylon fabrics

Recycled nylon comes from both pre-consumer waste, like leftover scraps from manufacturing, and post-consumer waste, such as old fishing nets and discarded nylon products. Recycled nylon has some pretty big environmental perks, like significantly reducing CO2 emissions compared to producing virgin nylon. According to Formosa Plastics, nylon recycled from marine sources saves 15% more energy and cuts carbon emissions by 49% compared to producing new caprolactam from petrochemical refining. However, the process is pricey and complicated, involving thorough cleaning and careful handling to keep the fibers' quality intact.

You’ve probably heard stories about marine creatures like sea turtles, endangered sharks, and even whales getting caught in fishing nets and starving to death. It’s heartbreaking, but Taiwan’s Formosa Plastics is working on a solution to lessen the impact of ocean waste on our ecosystems. They’ve developed a range of functional products using eco-friendly fibers, including antibacterial, cooling, and heat-generating types. And get this—these products, made from recycled fishing nets, are just as high-quality as those made from brand-new materials.

Read more: What is Deadstock Fabric? Is it Really Sustainable?
 

6. S.Café Yarn

Coffee grounds, usually tossed out as waste, are actually turning out to be a hidden gem in the textile world. Originally used to cover up bad smells, these grounds are now finding a new life as a sustainable material. Through a high-temperature process called calcination, coffee grounds are transformed into a special kind of carbon that’s blended into polyester fibers. The result? A fabric that dries super fast, keeps you warm, and offers amazing UV protection. Plus, by repurposing coffee grounds, this innovative process supports a more circular economy and helps cut down our carbon footprint.

 

7. Shell fabircs

Oyster shells, which used to be tossed as waste, are now getting a second life as a sustainable material. Traditionally, they were ground into powder for fertilizers or used as fillers in construction. But lately, some innovative companies have started exploring their potential in all kinds of cool ways. Think durable, plastic-free shoe soles and even biodegradable materials for masks. And the real game-changer? Scientists have figured out how to turn oyster shell powder into a chemical-free yarn called "Seawool" by mixing it with recycled PET.

 

There are a few companies making waves with shell fabrics. Creative Tech Textile is leading the way with its Seawool yarn, offering cool products like antibacterial insulating cotton and deodorizing socks. Shun Yuan Sportswear is on board too, using Seawool for their sportswear line. The Lea Lea Group has introduced Oceaya® yarn, known for its anti-static and deodorizing properties. Even fashion designers like DYCTEAM are jumping in, creating stylish and sustainable garments from oyster shell fabrics. Taiwan Sugar Corporation, which is known for its diverse ventures, is also exploring this space, producing functional fabrics and finding new uses for oyster shell materials.

Read more: What is Recycled Fabric? 4 Common Types of Recycled Fabric and The Most Innovative Ones

 

Which fabric is most sustainable?

According to Lottie Bertello, alpaca is the most sustainable fiber. However, we really don’t support any animal-derived fibers because you never know how the animals are being treated on the farm. 

 

We think that the title of "most sustainable fabric" can depend on various factors, like how it's produced, where it's sourced from, and how it's processed. However, TENCEL Lyocell is often highlighted as one of the most sustainable options. It's made from wood pulp, usually sourced from sustainably managed forests, and the production process is considered to be eco-friendly. The chemicals used in making TENCEL Lyocell are managed in a closed-loop system, meaning they're reused rather than released as waste, which significantly reduces environmental impact. Plus, TENCEL is biodegradable, so it won’t contribute to landfill waste once it's no longer wearable. 

 

We also think hemp is one of the most sustainable fabrics, too. It grows quickly with minimal water and no need for pesticides. Recycled fabrics, like those made from recycled polyester or nylon, also make the list because they give new life to waste materials and reduce the need for virgin resources. Each of these fabrics has its strengths, and the most sustainable choice often depends on what you’re looking for in a fabric and how it's going to be used. If you're unsure which fabric is the best fit for your product, we’d recommend reaching out to a sustainable fabric supplier. Most likely they know which sustainable fabric suits you best.
 

Are sustainable fabrics greenwashing?

Generally, we don’t think sustainable fabrics are greenwashing. However, it really depends on how they are marketed and produced. Greenwashing happens when companies make their products seem more eco-friendly than they actually are, often by highlighting one sustainable aspect while ignoring other negative environmental impacts.
 

For example, a fabric might be labeled as "organic" or "recycled," which sounds great, but if the production process still uses harmful chemicals, excessive water, hurting the animals, or exploits labor, then it’s not truly sustainable. The key to avoiding greenwashing is transparency—brands should be open about their entire production process, from sourcing materials to the final product.
 

So, while sustainable fabrics have the potential to be genuinely eco-friendly, it’s important to do your research and make sure the brands you’re supporting are practicing what they preach.
 

Why sustainable fabrics matter?

Sustainable fabrics matter because it’s a first step toward a greener future. Traditional fabric production often takes a huge toll on the environment, using up tons of water, energy, and chemicals that lead to pollution and deforestation. In contrast, sustainable fabrics are made with processes that are much kinder to the planet—they use less water, reduce waste, and lower carbon emissions. (Well, now we know that it really depends on how transparent and honest a company is.) Plus, these fabrics often incorporate recycled materials, helping to cut down on the massive amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills.

 

Another big deal is that sustainable fabrics are usually produced in a way that respects ecosystems and protects wildlife, unlike conventional methods that can really damage natural habitats. On top of that, there's a huge social responsibility aspect—sustainable fabric production tends to prioritize fair labor practices, ensuring that workers are treated well and paid fairly, which is sadly not always the case in fast fashion. And let’s not forget about the health benefits: these fabrics are often free from harmful chemicals, making them safer to wear, especially for people with sensitive skin. With more and more consumers caring about where their clothes come from, choosing sustainable fabrics is a way to support positive change in the industry. It’s about making choices that are better for the planet, for people, and for our own well-being.
 

Where to find sustainable fabrics?

As a sustainable fabric supplier, we know how our fabrics are made and whether they truly live up to their sustainable claims—caring for the environment, animals, and people. With our expertise, we can help you find the perfect sustainable fabrics for your products. We care about the earth, and we care about making a change in the textile industry. If you are not ready to use sustainable fabrics yet and only have questions, leave us a message and we will be happy to assist you whenever. Let’s create a greener future together! 
 

Final thoughts

“It’s not perfect—nothing’s perfect,” says Liesl Truscott, Textile Exchange’s director of Europe and materials strategy, about the production of organic cotton. And honestly, we feel the same way. No matter how “sustainable” a fabric claims to be, there’s always room for improvement with today’s technology. But that doesn’t mean we should give up on sustainable fabrics. In fact, choosing them can make a real difference—not just in reducing environmental impact, but also in raising awareness among your customers. 

 

FAQs

1. Is 100% cotton a sustainable fabric?

Unfortunately, 100% cotton is not a sustainable fabric. Conventional cotton is one of the thirstiest and most chemical-intensive crops, requiring tons of pesticides that harm both the planet and the people who grow it. Go for recycled cotton if you want to make a responsible choice. Recycled or upcycled cotton is made from post-industrial and post-consumer cotton waste, and has a lower impact than both conventional and organic cotton.
 

2. What fabric is not sustainable?

• Conventional Cotton: While cotton is a natural fiber, conventional cotton farming is highly water-intensive and often relies on pesticides and chemical fertilizers, which can harm the environment and the health of workers.

• Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fabric made from petroleum, a non-renewable resource. The production process releases harmful emissions and the fabric itself is non-biodegradable, contributing to microplastic pollution.

• Nylon: Like polyester, nylon is made from petroleum and is not biodegradable. Its production process is also energy-intensive and releases greenhouse gases.

• Rayon/Viscose: Although derived from natural cellulose, the production of rayon involves heavy chemical processing that can be harmful to workers and the environment, especially when not properly managed.

• Conventional Leather: Leather production often involves harsh chemicals, such as chromium, in the tanning process, which can be harmful to both the environment and workers. Additionally, the livestock industry contributes to deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions.

 

These fabrics contribute to environmental degradation, exploit natural resources, and often involve unethical labor practices, making them unsustainable choices.
 

3. What fabric material is most sustainable?

TENCEL Lyocell is frequently recognized as one of the most sustainable fabric choices. Made from wood pulp, typically sourced from responsibly managed forests, its production process is known for being environmentally friendly. The chemicals involved in producing TENCEL Lyocell are handled in a closed-loop system, meaning they are reused instead of being released as waste, which greatly minimizes environmental impact. Additionally, TENCEL is biodegradable, so it won’t contribute to landfill waste once it’s no longer in use.

 

Hemp is another fabric we consider highly sustainable. It grows rapidly, requires little water, and doesn’t need pesticides. Recycled fabrics, such as those made from recycled polyester or nylon, are also excellent sustainable options because they repurpose waste materials and reduce the demand for new resources. Each of these fabrics has its own advantages, and the best sustainable choice often depends on what specific qualities you need in a fabric and how you plan to use it.

 

4. How do you know if fabric is sustainable?

To figure out if a fabric is truly sustainable, start by looking for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), OEKO-TEX, or Fair Trade, which ensure the fabric meets high environmental and ethical standards. Also, pay attention to the material itself—sustainable fabrics are often made from natural, renewable, or recycled materials like organic cotton, TENCEL, hemp, or recycled polyester.

Next, dig into the production process. Sustainable fabrics are usually produced with eco-friendly methods, like closed-loop systems that cut down on waste and chemical use. Transparency is another key factor—brands that are genuinely committed to sustainability will be open about their sourcing and manufacturing processes, so look for brands that share detailed information on where and how their fabrics are made.

Finally, consider the fabric’s longevity. Truly sustainable fabrics are designed to last, which means you won’t have to replace them as often, helping to minimize waste over time.
 

5. What fabrics are 100% biodegradable?

Organic cotton, organic linen, hemp, silk, wool, jute, bamboo, coffee grounds fabrics are 100% biodegradable. 
 

6. What are eco-friendly fibers?

Eco-friendly fibers are materials derived from natural or recycled sources that have a lower environmental impact compared to conventional fibers. They are produced using sustainable practices, often requiring fewer resources like water and energy, and they avoid the use of harmful chemicals. Here are some examples of eco-friendly fibers:
 

1. Organic Cotton

Grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, organic cotton is better for the environment and for the health of farmers.
 

2. Bamboo

When processed using environmentally friendly methods, bamboo can be a highly sustainable fiber due to its rapid growth and minimal need for pesticides.
 

3. Hemp

A fast-growing plant that requires little water and no pesticides, hemp is a strong, durable, and eco-friendly fiber.
 

4. Organic Linen

Made from the flax plant, linen is biodegradable and requires less water and fewer pesticides than cotton.
 

5. Recycled Polyester (rPET)

Made from recycled plastic bottles or other PET products, this fiber reduces the need for virgin materials and helps to minimize plastic waste.
 

6. TENCEL™ Lyocell

A fiber made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, produced in a closed-loop process that recycles water and solvents, making it highly eco-friendly.

7. Recycled Wool

Produced from post-consumer or post-industrial wool waste, recycled wool reduces the need for new wool and minimizes waste.
 

8. Seawool

Made from recycled plastic and oyster shells, this innovative fiber is another example of turning waste into a sustainable textile option.