Did you know that the fashion industry consumes more energy than the aviation and shipping industry do?
Most of your clothing, bed sheets, outdoor wear and other fabrics are made of polyester which is extremely strong, durable and resistant to most chemicals. However, it is not very sustainable. It uses harmful chemicals in its production process and these synthetic fabrics are the biggest source of microplastics polluting our oceans.
A better and very well known option is cotton. Cotton is a plant-based natural fiber known for its comfort and high absorbency as a fabric. It is durable, hypoallergenic and breathes well. And best of all, it is biodegradable, sustainable and uses less than half of the energy of polyester production.
Polyester is better at maintaining its shape and doesn't wrinkle or shrink like cotton does. But polyester stains more easily and holds on to body odor, even after washing it several times. Unfortunately, polyester is a lot cheaper to produce than cotton is, which is why so many of the world's fast fashion stores are using this as their main choice for fabric.
I've said goodbye to fast fashion years ago and always look at the labels when shopping, making sure my clothing is not only cotton, but organic as well.
Read more about organic cottons here.
Read more about other types of fabrics here.
Read more about the impact Coronavirus had on the fashion industry here.