March 9, 2010

Available Eco-Clothing Options

Many smart shoppers are talking about eco-clothing these days. People are becoming increasingly aware of materials used in the products they buy, and how they are manufactured. Additionally, designers are trying to incorporate materials from sustainable resources into their products.

Maintaining harmony with nature is paramount in designs for eco-clothing lines.

Consumers should seek out products that are created with as little waste as possible, as well as those that are organic or made from recycled materials. As demand for an alternative product rises, manufacturers must make more of said product available on the market. Many modern consumers look specifically for products that have small carbon footprints.

However, it might take years for eco-clothing to go mainstream since at present it has only a relatively small market share in the fashion industry. Although it is more expensive than regular clothing, eco-clothing’s primary advantage is that it is stronger, of higher quality, and generally lasts longer.

There are a variety of kinds of eco-clothing on the market today. Most of these fashion items are made of natural materials, including organic cotton, bamboo, soy, leather alternatives, and others.

One common material used in the manufacturing of eco-clothing is bamboo fabric. A natural textile, it is made from bamboo pulp. A viable alternative fabric for clothing manufacturing, it is both light and strong at the same time.

When it has not been spun yet, bamboo fiber looks a lot like cotton. Typically grown without using insecticides, bamboo grass can also grow very fast. The process of making bamboo fiber doesn’t require chemicals or bleaches that can harm the environment.

Because it is so quick-growing, bamboo can be replaced soon after harvesting. Because all living plants produce oxygen, plants that grow back swiftly after being cut down help maintain the environment’s oxygen levels.

Another type of eco clothing is clothing made from organic cotton. Almost identical to regular cotton, the organic variety differs in that it is grown without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Organic cotton growth has a low impact on the environment because it replenishes well and allows the soil to maintain its fertility. As acceptance of organic cotton rises, organic methods are being applied by more and more cotton farmers.

Eco-clothing can also be made from recycled fleece. This fabric is made from recycled soda bottles. Though it is not a natural fiber, it is considered environment-friendly because it’s made from recycled materials. Recycled fleece is often used in the manufacturing of clothing items like soft-soled baby shoes, diaper covers, and outwerwear.

These are just a few of the different types of eco-clothing currently available on the market. There are still other types of eco-clothing out there.

Check clothing labels when you’re shopping to see what particular garments are made of. You can be both environmentally and socially responsible by buying and wearing eco-clothing.

About the author: Megan Barlow helps others learn how to live greener and more eco-friendly lives. Learn more about sustainable living at her blog on Green and Resourceful Living.

Source Article: Types of Eco-Clothing.

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