The wisest and healthiest thing a person can do is be in tune with nature. Despite the fact that we couldn't genuinely cohabit with nature as we once did, this was due to the gradual commercial dominance of factory-made toxic synthetic products, which led to soil erosion, deforestation, pollution, harmful CO2 emissions, and greenhouse gases. Everyone was mesmerized by the sparkle and flash of false goods, and as demand increased, so did the artificial market and toxins. And just as in other sectors, the fabric business also witnessed a substantial shift. Initially, natural fibers like cotton, linen, wool, flax, and silk were used to weave and produce clothes. But in order to keep up with the rising demand for fabric, manufacturers began employing synthetic materials like nylon, polyester, and rayon in their facilities. These synthetic fibers also quickly became well-known since they are readily available at cheaper rates and even provide designers with more creative flexibility in the world of fast fashion.
Because, as the saying goes, "all that glitters is not gold," and the long-term effects of toxic synthetic materials on human health and the environment began to surface over time. Like most artificial materials don't feel comfortable on the body, which might make one feel uneasy. Clothes made from these materials are not very breathable and have a poor capacity to absorb moisture, which robs the skin of the comfort it needs. During the summer, sweat, itching, and rashes are particularly common problems, and on top of that, synthetic fabrics like sequin and polyester are always problematic for people with allergies and sensitive skin.
However, the terrible consequences of utilizing such fake and artificial products are now well established for all responsible consumers. Even when choosing things now, from the brands they purchase to the clothes they wear, they have become more mindful and conscious. As a result, there is a booming demand for environmentally friendly and sustainable products, which have made a strong comeback in recent years.
Let's discover what natural fibers are, their characteristics, and the benefits of using them.
What are natural fibers?
Any hair-like raw material that are grown in controlled settings with no pesticides, synthetic fertilizers or toxic chemicals and is naturally sourced from plants, animals, or minerals is referred to as "natural fiber." Organic farming is the greenest approach to producing high-quality organic fiber, which is then converted into fabric. The unprocessed, organic materials are spun into threads and yarns, which are subsequently knitted or woven into organic fabrics. The two primary categories of natural fibers are those derived from animals or plants. Natural fibers made from plants include cotton, linen, bamboo, and jute, whereas natural fibers made from animals include wool, silk, and fur. Vegan textiles like modal wool and vegan silk are becoming more popular as an alternative to fibers derived from animals to prevent animal cruelty.
More environmentally friendly materials are in demand because of the enormous global demand for organic fashion, food, packaging, clothes, cosmetics, etc. According to research, there is a growing interest in using sustainable and organic materials than ever before.
How can you tell if a fabric is organic?
The most frequently asked question we get is, "How can I know if a fabric is organic?" And well, the answers, on the other hand, are rather simple and clear. Like the first step you need to do is research and find out about basic information of organic clothes. Then find and explore fashion brands that offer such clothes. It is also very important to check the GMO and other certified labels to guarantee that the product is truly organic and safe. If you still aren't sure, then it is wise to consult the place where you bought your item. In the future, shopping through a reputable sustainable brand that only sells 100% cotton clothing or fabric and is transparent about its manufacturing practices could be the best way to get the assurance you're looking for.
Let's have a look at the basic fiber characteristics guide, which should help you determine if the fabric you have is a blend or 100% organic and natural.
- 100% organic cotton should always have a label stating this. It should have a high-quality feel and be somewhat stiffer and softer. Along with being durable and hypoallergenic, it should have much more textures than standard mixed cotton.
- Tencel silk is certainly a luxurious, cruelty-free fabric made of nano-fibers, which give them a super-smooth feel. It is very difficult to wrinkle them due to the silk fibers being strong, and resistant to wear and tear. They are also non-transparent, and more absorbent than regular silk. They are a sustainable alternative to animal-based silk, and it is typically extremely easy to identify the difference between the two just by their appearance alone.
- Bamboo is a special eco-friendly textile material in the twenty-first century since it is not only a green fiber but also naturally anti-bacterial and UV-protective. Clothing composed of bamboo fiber is ideal for summer because of its superior moisture absorption, breathable fabric, and light weight.
- Linen fabrics are more durable, heavier, and 30% stronger than those made of regular cotton. The ability of linen to absorb moisture is well known. Although they frequently start off feeling crisper, over time the materials develop a softer and more supple feel.
- Orange fiber is an extreme sustainable approach to natural-based fibers, extracted from citrus fruit waste that would otherwise be discarded. Orange peels find good use as ethereal fabrics perfectly suited to premium, high-quality textiles. The pure 100% citrus fabric is lightweight, soft, wrinkle-resistant, and has a silky texture. It can also be blended with other materials and be opaque or glossy according to the designer’s needs.
Benefits of using natural fabrics
Consuming products made of natural fibers and fabrics may come at a somewhat higher cost, but you can be sure that they are cruelty-free and provide a number of incredible benefits to the health and environment.
Eco-friendly: Eco-friendly: Natural fibers usually have a lower environmental impact than synthetic fibers because organic farming does not use as many chemicals during the production process. They are biodegradable and 100% natural, making them safe to use.
Comfortable: High-quality natural fiber clothing is breathable and light, making it more comfortable on the skin than synthetic fiber clothing.
Hypoallergenic: Since organic fabrics are all-natural, wearing clothing made of them is a perfect choice, especially for people who have allergies or sensitive skin.
Durable: The majority of plant-based fibers are incredibly strong due to the structure of cellulose, which makes up natural materials. Cellulose fibers make the perfect durable summertime fabrics like cotton, hemp, and linen fabrics.
If you're wondering, "Where can I buy organic cotton clothing?" Visit Apanakah, where we have handcrafted GOTS-certified organic clothes for all mindful shoppers who want to spread positivity while also protecting the ecosystem and our environment. By choosing organic, biodegradable, and slow-made products, we can all reduce our carbon footprints and contribute to keeping Mother Nature clean and green.