What Is the Best Eco-Friendly Material for Clothing?

No single material is the best choice for every garment, because environmental impact depends on how a fiber is grown or produced, processed, used, and discarded. For clothing, we suggest starting with fibers suited to the garment’s purpose and choosing something you will wear often and keep for years.

Organic cotton, linen, and hemp are useful options to consider: cotton is versatile and comfortable, while linen and hemp can work well in breathable warm-weather clothing. Recycled polyester can make sense for durable activewear or outerwear, but synthetic garments can shed microfibers during washing and are not biodegradable.

For a summer shirt, you might prefer linen or hemp; for a soft everyday T-shirt, organic cotton or a recycled cotton blend may be a practical choice. Look beyond the fiber name, too: a well-made secondhand garment that fits your needs can be a more resource-conscious purchase than a new piece you rarely wear.

Check the product’s listed specifications when evaluating choose for your wardrobe.

Wash clothing only when needed, follow its care instructions, and repair small problems promptly to help extend its useful life. To explore your options further, our Eco-Friendly Fabrics for Clothing eBook: Your Complete Guide to Sustainable Fashion Choices offers a starting point for thinking about fabrics and your wardrobe.