10/08/2026
What is the difference between natural and synthetic fabrics? 👕
The sustainability and safety of a clothing garment depends largely on the type of fabric used, especially Natural vs. Synthetic fibers.
The fibers of synthetic fabrics are derived from man-made substances. Most synthetic fibers are plastic, which is produced from fossil fuels. While marketed as affordable and stylish, synthetic fabrics have numerous downsides, including:
❌ They break down into microplastics when laundered, which contaminates our waters.
❌ Production requires large amounts of fossil fuels, generating greenhouse gas emissions.
❌ Certain synthetic clothing products have been found to contain harmful chemicals including flame retardants and PFAS, which are linked to cancer and other health issues.
Synthetic fabrics include:
• Polyester
• Nylon
• Rayon
• Neoprene
• Spandex
• Acrylic
• Polyester Satin
Natural fabrics are fibers produced from living organisms like plants. They are generally more sustainable because:
✅ Natural fibers require less chemical processing and fossil fuel use.
✅ Because natural fibers are organic material, they do not break down into microplastics.
✅ They are usually more durable over time than synthetic fabrics.
Natural fabrics include:
• Cotton
• Silk
• H**p
• Linen (Flax)
• Animal hair like Wool or Alpaca
Though garments made of natural fibers tend to be more durable and sustainable, quality and environmental impact depend on multiple factors. Some fast fashion brands sell cheaply made “natural” items. When shopping, check clothing tags to look at fabric composition. Be especially wary of labels like “cotton rich,” or “cotton blend,” because these garments are often mostly synthetic with just a small percentage of cotton.
👉 Read more about sustainable clothes shopping: https://www.ecocenter.org/de-influencing-101-clothing
