Natural fibres vs synthetics - what's the difference?
When it comes to clothing, the choice between synthetic and natural materials can be overwhelming. Each has its advantages, but natural fabrics often stand out. They offer breathability, comfort, and sustainability that synthetic options can’t match. We’ll explore why natural materials are the better choice for your wardrobe. We’ll dive into the environmental impact, health benefits, and overall quality of natural fabrics.
Are synthetic clothes bad for me?
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Francisco Ángel, a hospital worker and student, makes extra money by scouring mounds of clothes in the Atacama Desert for items to sell. Each week, shipments of used garments arrive in Chile at the free port of Iquique. Resellers buy some, but tons of clothes end up here. - nationalgeographic.com
One of the major concerns surrounding synthetic fibers is their plastic nature; for instance, polyester is derived from petroleum. This means they can take an astonishingly long time to break down, often exceeding 500 years, and during this time, they can leach into the soil, waterways, and oceans. Each year, approximately 1.5 million tons of microplastics find their way into the sea, contributing to the decline of marine life and the pollution of our oceans.
The pollution affecting our oceans is also making its way into our bodies! Insufficient water filtration systems allow microplastics, which are released throughout the lifecycle of synthetic garments, to contaminate our drinking water. Moreover, the pollution in the ocean means that these microplastics are also present in the fish and other food we eat. A recent study found that out of 13 patients who had lung surgery, 11 showed traces of microplastics in their lung tissue. Additionally, microplastics have been discovered in the placentas of pregnant women, and studies with pregnant rats indicate that these particles can quickly travel through the heart, brain, and other organs of developing foetuses.
How are natural fibres better?
Cotton loom weaving - nidocollective.com
Natural fibres in clothing come from sustainable origins, whether they are derived from plants or animals. These materials tend to be more environmentally friendly and ethically produced than their synthetic counterparts. Common plant-based fibres include cotton, silk, linen, and hemp, while animal-derived options feature wool, alpaca fleece, camel hair, and spider silk.
The advantages of natural fibres are plentiful, providing superior comfort, softness, and durability. They are particularly suitable for sensitive skin year-round and are kind to the environment due to their long-lasting nature. Furthermore, the production of natural fibers typically requires less water, uses fewer harmful chemicals, and is biodegradable. This combination greatly reduces risks to both human health and the planet. Additionally, many natural fibres are obtained from fair trade or ethical sources, ensuring the safety and well-being of workers in the fashion industry.
Ultimately, choosing natural materials over synthetic ones not only enhances comfort but also supports the welfare of fashion workers and positively impacts environmental health.
So, what about viscose?
A beautiful print of viscose - sustainably-chic.com
Viscose, also known as rayon, is a neither entirely synthetic nor entirely natural material that has been in use since the late 1800s. It is a man-made material, derived from cellulose - plant fibres or wood pulp! Being biodegradable, it breaks down naturally over time, while fully synthetic materials can linger in landfills for centuries. Full decomposition when composted is actually far quicker than cotton; viscose takes 4-6 weeks to biodegrade, as compared to cotton's 11 week average!
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However, as viscose does have some man-made components, it can come with some potential drawbacks. The production can use chemicals and energy-intensive processes, which can affect the environment around the factory it's being produced in. Non-sustainably sourced viscose is a large contributor to global deforestation and water waste, much like the production of any materials including cotton or polyester.
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But no need to panic! I ensure to source my materials as responsibly as possible, and only choose my fabrics from sustainably forested, low-chemical, closed-loop (recycle and low-waste) producers. In comparison to all other synthetic or semi-synthetic fabrics, viscose is the most sustainable and eco-friendly when sourced properly, and has a luxurious, silky feel without the worries of microplastics and dangerous chemicals!
What can I do to help?
A woman, thrifting clothes - plasticpollutioncoalition.org
It's no surprise that higher-quality options come with a higher price tag; this is often due to the absence of shortcuts and a more deliberate production process. Yet, as we advocate for change, we can anticipate a greater availability of clothing that is kinder to our skin. Additionally, these thoughtfully crafted pieces tend to outlast those made from synthetic materials, making them a worthwhile investment in the long run.
Choosing fabrics that are completely natural, especially organic ones, is the best way to care for your skin. Opt for cottons, linens and other natural fibres, as they are produced without harmful chemicals and require less water and energy—benefiting both your skin and the planet.
Positive changes are underway, and awareness is growing. The more we discuss these topics, the quicker we can drive change. So, how can you contribute right now? When you shop for clothing, take a moment to research. If you're purchasing something new, check the materials, and the manufacturing location. Additionally, consider buying second-hand items to extend their life, or get creative by upcycling your existing clothes to refresh them and keep them out of landfills longer.