Let’s face it: what your clothes are made of matters. Not just for your skin or your comfort, but for the planet too. With fashion being one of the most resource-intensive industries on Earth, choosing eco-friendly materials is a simple but powerful way to shop more sustainably.
Whether you’re new to sustainable fashion or looking to level up your wardrobe, this guide breaks down the best sustainable fabrics, why they matter, and how UNUMSHOP makes it easy to look good while doing good.
Why Fabric Choice Matters for Sustainability
The type of fabric used in your clothing has a huge environmental impact, from how it’s grown to how it’s dyed, washed, and eventually discarded.
Here’s why it matters:
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Textiles contribute to 20% of global clean water pollution due to dyeing and finishing processes (World Bank).
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Synthetic fabrics like polyester are derived from fossil fuels and account for 35% of all microplastics in the ocean (IUCN).
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Conventional cotton production consumes about 2,700 liters of water for a single T-shirt, enough for one person to drink for 2.5 years (WWF).
Choosing sustainable fabrics = reducing carbon emissions, conserving water, and protecting ecosystems all while building a wardrobe that feels amazing.
Meet Our Favorite Sustainable Fabrics
At UNUMSHOP, we carefully select clothing made from low-impact, high-quality materials. Here are some of our top picks and why you’ll love them:
1. Organic Cotton
Why we love it: Grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, organic cotton is safer for the environment and farmers. It uses 91% less water and 46% less CO₂ than conventional cotton (Textile Exchange).
How it feels: Soft, breathable, hypoallergenic , perfect for everyday essentials and elevated basics.
2. Linen
Why we love it: Made from the flax plant, linen requires little to no irrigation, thrives without chemicals, and is fully biodegradable.
How it feels: Lightweight, breezy, and perfect for warm weather. It even gets softer with each wash, win-win!
3. TENCEL™ (Lyocell and Modal)
Why we love it: Derived from sustainably harvested wood pulp, TENCEL™ is produced in a closed-loop system that recycles water and solvents.
How it feels: Silky, smooth, and moisture-wicking, ideal for elevated loungewear, blouses, and dresses.
4. Recycled Polyester (rPET)
Why we love it: Made from post-consumer waste like plastic bottles, rPET helps divert waste from landfills and oceans. Producing rPET uses 59% less energy than virgin polyester (WRAP UK).
How it feels: Durable and versatile, used in activewear, outerwear, and blended basics.
5. Hemp
Why we love it: Naturally pest-resistant, hemp requires 50% less water than cotton and returns nutrients to the soil. It's one of the most sustainable fibers available.
How it feels: Strong yet soft, hemp has a relaxed drape and rustic appeal, great for casualwear and layering pieces.
UNUMSHOP’s Commitment to Fabric Transparency
We believe in radical honesty, about what we stock, who makes it, and what it’s made from. That’s why we:
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Vet every brand we work with for sustainability certifications and ethical sourcing practices.
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Prioritize labels that use GOTS-certified organic materials, OEKO-TEX® dyes, and closed-loop production.
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Feature brands like Neu Nomads, 1 People, and Good For Sunday, all of whom lead the way in fabric innovation and eco-conscious design.
Tips for Washing and Caring for Eco-Fabrics
Extend the life of your eco-friendly clothes with low-impact care:
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Wash cold to save energy and prevent fiber damage.
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Air dry when possible - tumble dryers are tough on fabrics and the environment.
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Use a Guppyfriend bag when washing synthetics (like recycled polyester) to catch microplastics.
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Spot clean or steam to freshen up without overwashing.
Smart care = fewer replacements = more sustainable living.
Browse UNUMSHOP's eco-friendly clothing collection, carefully curated, consciously sourced, and undeniably stylish.