Have you ever noticed how much of our clothing is actually made from plastics? It’s something I didn’t think about for years, until I started paying closer attention to fabric labels.
That curiosity led me to learn more about natural fibres and the impact our clothes have on our bodies and the environment. Natural fibres like cotton, hemp, wool, and silk offer comfort, durability, and breathability that synthetic materials can’t match. While these pieces can be more expensive and require more research, the learning curve is worth it.
Building a wardrobe with natural fibres doesn’t have to happen all at once. You can invest slowly through speciality shops or find gently used pieces at thrift stores. It’s a gradual shift that rewards patience. Once you start to recognize quality and understand what works for your lifestyle, choosing well-made natural fabric becomes second nature.
4 Reasons Why I’m Switching to Natural Fibres
1) It’s Breathable I was constantly overheating because so many of the pieces in my closet were made from synthetic fabrics that trap heat and moisture. Making the shift to natural fibres made an immediate difference. Fabrics like cotton, linen, and wool allow air to circulate and regulate body temperature, which make them perfect staples for any season.
I’ve been loving merino wool. With our long winters in Canada, it’s a light-weight and insulating fabric that’s breathable, moisture-wicking, and naturally resistant to bacteria and odor. It’s easy to see why it’s a favorite among travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
2) Better for Us and the Environment Our skin is our largest organ and what we wear against it every day matters. Synthetic fabrics not only trap heat, but they are also derived from petroleum and can shed microplastics with every wash. Natural fibers on the other hand are biodegradable and generally have a lower long-term environmental impact when produced responsibly.
The fast fashion industry relies heavily on using significant amounts of water, energy, and chemicals. By slowing down and making thoughtful choices, you’re not just investing in higher-quality pieces, you’re reducing waste and saving money overtime since well-made garments don’t need to replaced as often.
Washing one polyester shirt every two weeks can release approximately 52,000 microplastic fibres annually. Research estimates that synthetic textiles are responsible for 35% of the microplastics in our oceans today.
Additionally, textile production is estimated to be responsible for about 20% of global clean water pollution as a result of dyeing and finishing products. Textile dyeing releases heavy metals and other toxins into waterways, impacting local communities that rely on these water sources. The waste from these factories makes its way into nearby rivers, which irrigate the fields of local farms, contaminating crops and drinking water.
– UNITED NATIONS, “From Petroleum to Pollution.”
3) Lasts Longer With proper care, high-quality natural fibre garments can last for years, even decades. Instead of constantly replacing worn-out items, owning a smaller collection of well-made pieces creates a wardrobe that’s not only more sustainable, but also more dependable.
Did you know? If a garment label says wool is “dry-clean only” it can sometimes indicate lower-quality wool, blended fibres, or simply serve as a precaution from manufacturers to avoid liability if the item is damaged during home washing. In contrast, high-quality wool is more durable and will have labels that allow hand and machine washing in cold water on a delicate cycle.
4) Balance Owning natural fibres can feel both high-maintenance and surprisingly low-effort at the same time. While some pieces require more care, like hand washing or laying flat to dry, they don’t need to be washed as often. Due to their natural odor-resistant and antibacterial properties, these fabrics stay fresh longer and make the overall upkeep more balanced than it might seem at first.
I also haven’t eliminated all polyester from my wardrobe. Items like winter jackets, rain gear, and certain boots still serve a practical purpose in keeping me warm and dry in cold conditions. I’m just more intentional about what I choose to wear and aim to keep synthetic materials to a minimum.
Easy Ways to Start
Start small by checking the labels on your clothing and see what items you reach for frequently. If you’re always reaching for a t-shirt, thoughtful swaps like choosing a 90% cotton tee vs. a blend of 60% cotton and 40% polyester is a good start.
The first few swaps I made included undergarments, socks, pillows, and t-shirts. I eventually moved towards pants, sweaters, pajamas, bedding, and outerwear. Fabrics like cotton, linen, and silk are great for spring and summer, while merino wool and cashmere are perfect for fall and winter.
Brands such as Joe Fresh, GAP, and Old Navy offer affordable cotton and linen pieces. For good quality merino wool and cashmere, Icebreaker and Black Goat have a wide variety to choose from. Remember, you can always check your local thrift stores for more affordable options.
Switching to a closet of natural fibres will take time, years even. It can be expensive and overwhelming at first, especially when you realize there’s more to consider than just the fabric itself. Things like fibre length, ethical sourcing, and eco-friendly dyes can already feel like a learning curve, but the good news is that you don’t need to master all of that right away… I still haven’t. What are your thoughts on natural fibres? I’d love to know.
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Excellent post. We are slowing embracing thrifting. As a very petite person who has zero sewing skills I struggle with find pieces for myself but my husband is always bring home a few ‘new’ pieces.
I found this post to be so helpful! I had no idea there was microplastics in synthetic clothing. I have very sensitive skin and I’m dubious about trying merino wool although I’ve been wanting to. Thank you for suggesting some alternatives to high priced companies selling merino wool. I may just give it a try.