4 Reasons to Choose Plastic Free, All Natural Fibres Over Synthetic Fibres
One of the biggest problems our planet is facing is being caused by the choices we all make when buying our clothes. Manufacturers give our fabrics trade names so even when we look at the fibre content label inside our clothing it isn’t clear that it is made from plastic. Buying clothing that is made from natural fibres is the fastest and safest way to save our planet.
Let’s look at the benefits of natural fibres:
1. Natural Fibres are Durable and not so Expensive in the long run.
So, you think natural fibres are expensive, right? But what price are you willing to put on your health, your family’s health and the future of the entire planet?
Also, if you think about the cost per wear, buying high-quality clothing made with natural fibres that can withstand the fashion trends is lighter on your wallet than synthetic cheap clothing that is thrown away after one season, or even worse, after one wear. The key is to buy high-quality items that will stay in your wardrobe for a long time, possibly forever.
2. Natural Fibres are Hypoallergenic and have Anti-bacterial Properties
For those of you who have sensitive skin natural fibres will be more comfortable to wear they are mostly hypoallergenic and have anti-bacterial properties allowing your skin to breathe naturally and reducing the risk of sweating and the build-up of bacteria.
Natural fibres require less washing often if not dirty odours will disappear if the clothing is hung up overnight in the fresh air. This again, will save you money in the long run and will benefit the environment (i.e. energy savings as well as saving on laundry powder).
Related: Sustainable Fashion: Does It Exist?
3. Natural Fibres are Biodegradable, Compostable and Fire Resistant
Natural fibres are biodegradable which means they will decompose naturally when they reach the end of their life unlike synthetic materials. Clothing made with natural fibres can be placed in the compost bin at the end of their very long life cycle if not used as a rag.
Natural fibres are fire resistant and on burning will not produce poisonous gases. Have you ever ruined one of your shirts because the iron was set too high and melted the fibres, leaving a hole in your shirt? Well, this is a strong reminder that that shirt was made using fossil fuels.
Have you ever noticed on labels, particularly on children’s synthetic clothing like pyjamas, etc. the warning that says “Caution – Keep away from heat and flame”? That is another strong reminder that those fibres are not fire resistant and that are dangerous next to a flame.
4. Using Natural Fibres Reduces Ocean Pollution
Using natural fibres reduces ocean pollution, every time you place synthetic clothing in your washing machine it releases thousands of microplastics into the water system contributing to the killing of wildlife in our oceans. Some of the fibres that release the highest amount of microplastics in every wash are acrylics, polyester, or polyester blends that come from plastic clothing.
The list below of natural fibres will help you when making a clothing purchase. Remember to look in the label for the fibre content.
Every decision you make will make a difference to the planet. Organically grown natural fibres are always a better choice and worth the investment.
Natural plant fibres include:
- Cotton
- Hemp
- Linen
- Bamboo
Natural animal fibres which don’t harm the animal are mainly:
- Sheep’s wool and
- Alpaca wool
There are other animal fibres which are good because they naturally biodegrade but not so good when the fibre is removed from the animal, therefore we won’t list them here.
Julie Torrance
flocci
At flocci we are passionate about rebuilding our planet. Our products are grown, spun and manufactured by hand locally within Victoria. We use alpaca wool for the large variety of natural colours which makes our garments chemical free, this improves the softness and comfort when worn next to our skin. Join our mission and heal our planet.
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To find clothing made with natural fibres, explore the range of slow fashion eco-brands in our directory.
