Kinds of Eco-Clothing

Many savvy consumers today are interested in eco-clothing. People are becoming increasingly aware of materials used in the products they buy, and how they are manufactured. Designers are looking for ways to incorporate materials from sustainable resources.

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

Supporting products that are organic, recycled, or created with as little waste as possible is important to many consumers. Manufacturers have no choice but to create more products once the demand for a particular alternative product increases. Many modern consumers are looking for products with small carbon footprints.

But currently, eco-clothing has a relatively small market share in the fashion industry and it might take a few more years before it goes mainstream. 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.

Eco-clothing is available in various types. Most of them are made from natural materials, such as organic cotton, soy, bamboo, leather alternatives, and a lot more.

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

When it has not been spun yet, bamboo fiber looks a lot like cotton. Bamboo grass can grow without the use of insecticides, and it can grow fast. Additionally, bamboo fiber can be made without using chemicals or bleaches that can harm the environment.

Bamboo also grows very quickly, so that it is replaced very soon after it is harvested. Since any living plant produces oxygen, a plant that grows back quickly after being cut down is good for helping maintain oxygen levels in the environment.

Another type of eco clothing is clothing made from organic cotton. Chemical fertilizers and pesticides are eschewed in the growing of organic cotton, but otherwise it is almost identical to the regular variety we encounter every day. Because it replenishes well and allows the soil to maintain its fertility, growing organic cotton has a low impact on the environment. Acceptance of organic cotton is growing, and more cotton farmers are now switching to organic methods.

Recycled fleece is also used to create various types of eco-clothing. This fabric is made from recycled soda bottles. Because it’s made from recycled materials, this is considered an environmentally friendly fabric even though it’s not made of a natural fiber. Diaper covers, soft-soled baby shoes, and outerwear are commonly made of recycled fleece.

These are just a few of the different types of eco-clothing currently available on the market. Indeed, there are many types of eco-clothing availble today.

Be sure to check garment labels to see what clothing is made of when you’re shopping. If you want to be socially and environmentally responsible, buying and using eco-clothing is the right thing to do.

About the author: Megan Barlow helps others learn to live cleaner lives. Find out more about green living at her blog on Green Living Tips.

This article was first posted at Kinds of Eco Clothing.