Shopping for sustainably created textile to your wholesale fabric supplier is one approach to assure a more attentive purchase in the world of conscious fashion. Because fast fashion is produced at such a rapid speed to satisfy demand, producers must rely on virgin synthetic materials, which are both inexpensive and quick to make. Textiles, in general, make up 7.7% of municipal solid waste in landfills, and many materials (like polyester) take decades or more to biodegrade. Not only is it time to slow down, but it’s also time to examine our clothes labels more closely.
But how can we tell which materials are environmentally friendly and which aren’t? There isn’t a single “dream fabric” that can fix all of your problems. Because, at the end of the day, all new fabric costs resources to make, and while we love vintage and secondhand items, depending on what they’re made of, they can also contribute to the microplastics problem.
What Are Sustainable Fabrics, Exactly?
Sustainable fabrics are frequently constructed from natural or recycled materials, with the goal of minimizing harm caused by the manufacturing process, fiber qualities, or overall environmental impact. Some wholesale fabric supplier provide these fabrics that can also help with waste reduction, water saving, emissions reduction, and soil regeneration—though, as previously stated, no fabric is completely sustainable.
“Sustainable fabrics” is a word that is frequently used to gather together a variety of environmentally friendly materials, and several fabrics have earned the “sustainable” title for various reasons. Fabrics, like sustainability, are a shifting target, and no single fabric can achieve everything. Better materials, on the other hand, are hoped to contribute to a more transparent wholesale fabric supplier through ethical manufacture and environmentally friendly growth techniques.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a fast-growing, regenerative crop that doesn’t require fertilization and is frequently promoted as a sustainable garment fabric—though concerns regarding land clearing and harvesting methods have been raised (something to ask a brand about before purchasing a garment). Bamboo, on the other hand, is extremely absorbent, soft, and moisture-wicking, making it a popular choice among sustainable businesses and for every wholesale fabric supplier.
Hemp
Hemp is a type of cannabis plant that is used for a variety of purposes. It grows quickly, does not deplete the soil, and does not require pesticides. Hemp produces a long-lasting fabric that is non-irritating to the skin and has a wide range of applications. It’s frequently substituted for cotton. Because this cloth is frequently more expensive, it is not available to every wholesale fabric supplier. True hemp does not require certification and is already organic, but you can check with a business to be sure their items are made entirely of hemp (not merely containing hemp fibers) before purchasing.
Linen
Flax, which can be produced without fertilizer and planted in locations where other crops cannot survive, is used to make linen. There is no waste because flax may be used in its whole (seeds, oil, and crop). Linen is biodegradable as well, as long as harsh chemicals are avoided. Linen has the disadvantage of being pricey due to the fact that it is frequently manufactured overseas which you can now purchase with your wholesale fabric supplier online.
Modal
Modal is a semi-synthetic material derived mostly from the pulp of beech trees. The fabric is more delicate and softer than its lyocell sister because it is manufactured from natural materials of your wholesale fabric supplier.
Cotton that is grown organically
Toxic pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, and genetically modified seeds are not used in the production of organic cotton (GMOs). This normally entails a fabric production process that is managed sustainably, albeit this is not always the case without correct certifications. Look for a GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) accreditation. Assess your wholesale fabric supplier for cotton fabrics that are grown organically to evaluate the quality it possess.
In summary
For starters, get familiar with the labels and read our blog on your existing favorite wardrobe staples! The fabrics that work best for you will vary based on your values and your needs. For example, you may prefer to avoid any and all animal products in your clothing, so plant-based fabrics and recycled synthetics might be right for you. Perhaps you only want to wear fabrics that biodegrade, or maybe your work requires the use of certain synthetics in your garments. All of this can change, too, if you have skin sensitivities or allergies to particular fabrics you can choose from your wholesale fabric supplier.
Another factor to consider when shopping sustainably from your wholesale fabric supplier is that some fabrics will have a longer lifespan than others. The most optimal choice for you will be the one that will allows you to waste less, purchase fewer, and wear your items for longer.
