When I was younger, I had a clothing obsession. I would shop on Monday’s to buy new clothes to go shopping the next week. I would never be caught dead in the same top twice. When my favorite grocery store started selling clothing, I could not do my weekly shop without buying something. My closet was full of cheap clothing, some I never even wore.
When I started becoming more aware of the consequences that all this cheap clothing was having on the environment, I knew I had to become a more conscious shopper. Synthetic materials such as polyester, spandex, and acrylic are among the most used fabrics for constructing cheap fashions.
Unfortunately, these plastic fabrics are made from coal, oil and water using a chemical based process. They contribute greatly to global carbon emissions and are polluting our earth. Landfills are overflowing with disposable clothing that in not biodegradable. When washed, these fabrics release tiny micro-plastic fibers into our waterways, damaging vital ecosystems.
Aside from the environmental hazards, these materials are not as comfortable to wear as natural fibers. Synthetic clothing absorbs little moisture, making the body hot and sticky in warm weather.
I have chosen to invest a little more into clothing made from natural fibers. Some of these fabrics include hemp, bamboo, organic cotton, and linen. These fabrics have a much more positive effect on the environment and for me. Most natural fabrics are environmentally sustainable and biodegradable. I find them more comfortable as they are moisture wicking and breathable. My sensitive skin has reacted well to these fabrics. They are naturally hypoallergenic and anti-bacterial. My favorite is hemp for a few reasons; it becomes softer with each wash and as a person who runs “hot”, hemp has the ability to regulate my body temperature.
I have found natural fiber clothing to be a better investment in the long run. The clothing holds it shape and is extremely durable, unlike synthetic clothing that easily falls apart.
Check out Efforts Eco-Essentials for some great options. They offer a full line of men’s and women’s natural fiber clothing. Since 1994 they have designing and manufacturing eco-friendly clothing, with the majority being made in Canada.
(866) 391-8601
sales@eco-essentials.com
www.eco-essentials.com
