Posts in Fabrics & Certifications

A Beginner’s Guide to Mending Your Clothing

A Beginner’s Guide to the Visible Mending Trend

Mending clothes is a beautiful, meditative way to extend the life of your clothing, and it makes a powerful statement about your values. In this article, we’ll explore different types of clothing repair, and you’ll learn how to get started with your very own needle and thread next time your favorite sweater or pair of jeans develops a tear or a hole.

It’s taken me a while to get over the embarrassment of being the younger sibling, wearing my older sister’s hand-me-downs at school, but these days I take pride in repairing my clothes and making them last for as long as possible.

Each item of clothing in my wardrobe tells a unique story, and the ones I love the most are usually the ones I’ve had the longest; my grandmother’s black beaded 1950s dress that I wore on my first date with my husband, the supremely comfortable and flattering pair of jeans that I bought after becoming a new mother that made me feel like myself again for the first time since my body went through so many changes. Thinking of each item in my wardrobe as an old friend helps me make the effort to extend the life of my clothing by looking after it properly and repairing it when it starts to show signs of wear and tear.

Repairing your clothing can feel daunting if you’re not used to sewing; we tend to worry that our sewing skills aren’t up to scratch and that we’ll do it wrong or make it worse. But with a little patience and determination, learning to repair your clothes is a really empowering and creative way to build a more sustainable wardrobe. After all, as the saying goes, the most sustainable wardrobe is the one you already own.

Photo credit: Sophie Caldecott — *Photo credit:* *Sophie Caldecott*

Why Mend Your Clothes?

The polluting nature of the fashion industry is well known; it’s clear by now that if we want to play our part in fighting climate change, brands need to adopt a circular mentality that takes the end of the life of the clothing into consideration when designing new clothing. We all have a part to play in this shift away from waste; with over 11 million tons of unwanted textiles going to landfill in the US every year, we need to slow down our consumption and learn to extend the life of our clothing.

Mending clothes has become rather an endangered art form over the past few decades, as the fast fashion model of consumption often means it’s easier and cheaper to buy new clothing than to repair old clothing, and many of us aren’t learning the basic sewing skills we need to do simple repairs, like replacing buttons and darning socks. Thankfully, though, as well as the rise of circular fashion, the visible mending trend has really taken off recently, and more and more people are now taking pride in expressing their individuality and sustainable values through the quietly revolutionary act of mending their clothes.

As ethical fashion campaigner, co-founder of the Fashion Revolution movement, and author of Loved Clothes Last, Orsola de Castro wrote, “We don’t have to go far to gather the knowledge to make our clothes last longer; a small generational rewind is enough, because reusing and recycling are as old as time, the knowhow is engraved in all cultures and we are hard-wired to it – only now the benefits and implications are wider than ever.” If you don’t know where to start with clothing repairs, why not ask an older generation friend, neighbor, or relative if they remember how to sew and can teach you some basic stitches and techniques?

What is Visible Mending Versus Invisible Mending?

Visible mending is repair work that is deliberately made visible; the repair is turned into a feature of the clothing using brightly colored or contrasting threads and patches on repaired areas of clothing.

In contrast, invisible mending is the type of clothing repair that tries not to draw attention to the area that has been mended, blending in and trying to return the item to as close to its original condition as possible, rather than making the repair or change stand out. When doing invisible mending, you’ll want to use a thread that’s as close to the color of the fabric that you’re repairing as possible, and you’ll generally use simple, small stitches, turning your clothing inside out and hiding as much of the repair work on the inside and lining of the clothing as possible.

Visible Mending Techniques

The visible mending trend encourages us to be playful with our repairs, rather than perfectionist: I started with my children’s clothing, picking pieces that were cheap and that were so badly torn or stained that I didn’t have much to lose by trying to repair them. The stakes were low, and so I could just have a play around with some brightly colored embroidery thread and have some fun trying to stitch up a hole in the knee of some trousers with a pink heart, or making a patch to cover a big stain on the front of a dress.

Somehow—to me at least—visible mending feels more accessible to someone who’s not a professional sewer, though of course different types of repairs will be appropriate for different clothing and aesthetic tastes.

One of the fun things about visible mending is that the options are limitless, and your own style will develop as you make a habit of repairing your clothing. With smaller holes and tears, you can try embroidering a shape over the area that needs repair, and for bigger areas, you can have a play around with adding patches of fabric and embroidering the edges or patterns across the patches.

Techniques like Swiss darning can be done in contrasting color threads on holes or patches of wool that are starting to wear thin (it’s always best to start a repair before it gets too bad, rather than once a lot of the fabric has disintegrated or the hole has become too big).

Japanese culture has also had a huge influence over the visible mending movement. You may well have heard of the ancient Japanese aesthetic of Wabi Sabi designed to emphasize and celebrate the life and wear, seeing it as a way to make something more beautiful in its “imperfection” rather than something to be ashamed of.

Two Japanese mending techniques that apply a similar principle to clothing repairs, turning the repair into something of beauty rather than something to be hidden, are called Boro and Sashiko. Boro is a type of patching that covers the area in need of repair with patches secured with neat lines of running stitch, and Sashiko stitching creates a decorative pattern that can reinforce fabric while beautifying it at the same time. In traditional Sashiko embroidery, white thread is used over indigo fabric; as Sashiko artisan Atsushi explains, “Sashiko is a form and a process of stitching to appreciate the fabric and what we have.”

Boro and Sashiko stitching can be combined to patch and add pattern to clothing that needs reinforcing and repair to make a piece of clothing last longer and give it a whole new lease of life as a beautifully embellished statement piece.

How to Get Started and What You Need In Your Sewing Kit

Taking the time to learn a few basic stitches will stand you in good stead for your clothing repairs. Embroidery artist and author Christi Johnson shares tutorials on the basics of different types of stitches, including running stitch, back stitch, stem stitch, chain stitch, blanket stitch, and more, in her free resource library.

It’s a good idea to prep your sewing kit in advance so that you have the right supplies to hand when mending your clothes. Here are some basic sewing kit supplies that will serve you well in your repairing adventures:

Needles: You’ll need various sizes and strengths of needle, so get a good selection pack. The tougher the fabric, the stronger the needle will need to be. Make sure whatever pack you get includes some darning needles.
Threads: You’ll also need a variety of threads in different colors and thicknesses. It’s a good idea to start with some basic neutral colored cotton reels, as well as a selection of colorful embroidery threads, and worsted wool.
Pins (and a pincushion for quick and easy access): You’ll need pins to hold any patches in place while you sew, and also to hold pieces of fabric in the right position while you repair tears.
Thimble: This isn’t 100% necessary, but can protect your fingers from pricks while you stitch.
Sewing scissors: Not all scissors are equal, and it’s important to have some sharp sewing scissors and fabric scissors to hand so you can cut your fabric and threads easily.
Darning mushroom: A darning mushroom can help you hold things like socks in the right shape while you do your repairs so that you don’t sew up an area only to discover it has become misshapen.
Embroidery hoop: Don’t underestimate the importance of an embroidery hoop while working on an area of your clothing. I tried embroidering over a stained area on my daughter’s dress without using an embroidery hoop and was really disappointed when I realized it had bunched up the fabric so that it hung wrong when she wore it afterwards. An embroidery hoop stretches the fabric you’re working on flat to avoid bunching.
Scraps of fabric: Start a rag bag where you can keep scraps of leftover fabric from sewing projects, or clothing that’s beyond repair but can still be cut up and used for patches. You’ll soon have a great stash for repairs and sewing projects.

10 Books on Mending Clothes to Inspire You to Repair and Re-wear

As well as YouTube videos and learning in-person from the elders in our lives, there are plenty of great books that can inspire you and support you as you learn to repair clothing.

Loved Clothes Last by Orsola de Castro
Mystical Stitches by Christi Johnson
Visible Mending by Arounna Khounnoraj
Mend and Patch by Kerstin Neumüller
Wear, Repair, Repurpose by Lily Fulop
The Art of Repair by Molly Martin
Mending Matters by Katrina Rodabaugh
Make, Thrift, Mend by Katrina Rodabaugh
Mending Life by Nina and Sonya Montenegro
Fix Your Clothes by Raleigh Briggs

Once you make a habit of mending your clothes you may well discover that you enjoy taking the time to indulge your creative side, developing your own style of mending that works for you and your wardrobe. And if you find you don’t have the time or patience for sewing yourself, don’t worry: mending clothes can also be outsourced. In fact, it’s a great idea to support the repair economy by finding a local tailor who can repair and alter your clothing for you.

Shifting our habits from a throwaway culture to a more sustainable culture doesn’t have to be hard; start small, and remind yourself why extending the life of your wardrobe is important to you. With a little practice and experimentation, you’re bound to discover a repair routine that works for you.

About the Author

Sophie Caldecott is a freelance writer living in a cottage on the edge of the moor in the South-West of England. She writes about grief, empathy, ethical fashion, and the things that connect us and make us human. You’ll most likely find her cozied up by the fire with a mug of hot chocolate and a good book.

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Sustainable, non-toxic laundry routine

Nowadays, most laundry products on the market are filled with toxic chemicals that can cause a variety of health issues in the long run. Studies have shown that the ingredients found in those products can lead to diseases such as respiratory problems, neurological issues, diabetes, endocrine disruption, reproductive issues, and even cancer.

Not only that but using conventional laundry products to wash our clothes contributes to water pollution and waste.

Click here to learn more about caring for your cotton clothing.

Thankfully, we can easily avoid all those negative impacts by having a more conscious laundry routine.

Here are 7 tips you can follow to have a more sustainable and non-toxic laundry routine!

Wash your clothes less frequently.

Most of us have been brought up with the idea that clothes need to be washed very regularly, or even every day. Yet, many pieces in our wardrobes can be worn at least several times before they need laundering.

Of course, wash your underwear and socks after one use. However, if your shirt isn’t smelly or stained at the end of the day, consider wearing it again before throwing it in the hamper.

Things like bottoms, sweaters, and garments that don’t directly touch your skin can also be worn several times.

If something gets a little stain, spot-clean it and wear it again.

Washing your clothes less frequently will significantly extend their lifespan!

2. Wash full loads and prefer cold water.

Only run your washing machine when it is full. Doing so will help you save water and energy in the long run.

Try to also wash your clothes in cold water if possible to save even more energy.

3. Read fabric care labels.

Make sure you wash your clothes properly by reading their fabric care labels carefully. It is important to know how each piece needs to be washed if you want it to last.

Does it have to be dry cleaned or is it hand wash only? Can you put it in the dryer? What are the ideal washing temperatures to keep it in good condition for longer? Should you wash it in a gentle cycle?

We recommend Dropps for a low-waste, non-toxic laundry detergent!

4. Use non-toxic, eco-friendly laundry products.

Avoid laundry products that contain toxic chemicals such as synthetic fragrances, phosphates, SLS, optical brighteners, nonylphenol ethoxylates, methylisothiazolinone, and chlorine bleach.

Instead, prefer products made with biodegradable, non-toxic, and plant-based ingredients. Brands like Blueland, Meliora, and Attitude offer great options that are better for us and the planet.

They also sell their products using eco-friendly packaging like refills and plastic-free, reusable containers.

Also, consider ditching fabric softener and dryer sheets altogether. If you’re using the dryer to dry your clothes, switch to wool dryer balls.

Click here to find a list of our favorite non-toxic laundry detergents.

5. Wash your synthetics in a mesh laundry bag.

Synthetic clothes shed lots of microfibers when in the wash. A great solution to prevent all those tiny particles from entering waterways is to wash them in a mesh laundry bag, like the Guppyfriend.

You may also want to put your delicates in another mesh bag to keep them from snagging and stretching.

If you want to go even further, you can install a reusable microfiber filter on your washing machine!

You can also throw in a Cora Ball to help gather microplastics.

6. Avoid dry cleaning .

Dryer cleaners usually use perchloroethylene, a solvent that is a potential carcinogen, a reproductive toxicant, a neurotoxicant, and a persistent environmental pollutant.

So try to avoid dry cleaning and hand wash your pieces instead. Alternatively, see if you can find a company that uses non-toxic, sustainable dry-cleaning methods.

7. Air dry your clothes if possible.

If you can, air dry your clothes on a clothesline or a drying rack. Doing this will make them last longer and save a lot of energy!

If you still need to use the dryer, consider using it less often, or at least, for shorter periods.

About the Author

Eva Astoul is a French freelance writer, specializing in content related to sustainability, simple living, and a growth-focused healthy lifestyle. She runs her own blog, Green With Less, to inspire people to live a more minimalist and sustainable life.

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Sustainable, Innovative Fabrics We Love

While fast fashion and synthetic fabrics are usually the trends making headlines, innovative fabrics are still making their way into mainstream fashion. By using natural resources and recycling the typically discarded materials, eco-friendly textiles have the potential to change the clothing industry and their production. From fruit and vegetables to the ocean, forward-thinking brands are finding more and more ways to repurpose organic resources, here are 6 innovative fabrics to watch out for!

Our Favorite Innovative Fabrics For 2024:

1. MIRUM®

This plant-based material utilizes coconut fiber, natural rubber, and cork to replicate a texture similar to leather. It is completely free from plastic, fully biodegradable, and can be customized for a specific feel or durability. Minimum water and energy are needed to create the material, making it a more sustainable option.

We have a whole post dedicated to this textile if you want to read more!

How it can be used: car interiors, furniture, accessories, shoes, and clothing.

2. Bananatex®

Created as the world’s first biodegradable and regeneratively grown fabric made from Abacá banana plants. This durable fiber uses a part of the plant that typically goes to waste, but the banana fiber is very strong, naturally water-resistant, and functional for various uses. Bananatex is already making its way into mainstream fashion and is being used by popular brands like Stella McCartney, Balenciaga, and COS. You can watch the full process in their short film "A Textile (R)evolution"

How it can be used: backpacks, suitcases, tech accessories, shoes, outdoor gear, and clothing.

3. Orange Fiber

Who knew citrus peels were high fashion? Orange Fiber is a patented process and brand that creates textiles from citrus fruit discards that can be used as a biodegradable alternative to silk. Already squeezing its way into luxury fashion brands like Salvatore Ferragamo, this innovative fabric also provides an opportunity to reduce food industry waste.

How it can be used: scarves, blouses, drapery, pillows, interior handbag linings.

4. S.Café®

By using recycled coffee grounds and plastic, S.Cafe is a new solvent-free, UV-resistant, moisture-wicking innovative fabric. It also has natural odor control, can be spun into yarn, and reduces CO2 emissions compared to conventional carbonized materials. Creating S.Cafe fabrics allows an alternative use for coffee waste and turns it into a new resource. S.Cafe is widely versatile, with the ability to be made into fleece, thermal, and outdoor wear membrane materials while maintaining the same sustainable process. The technology was invented by Singtex in 2008 and has already received recognition from the top three global invention award organizations.

How it can be used: luggage, bedding, shoes, accessories, outdoor gear, and clothing.

5. OYSTEX

Created by the clothing brand Jetty, OYSTEX is bringing the ocean to your closet. By combining ground oyster shells, recycled plastic, and natural fibers, OYSTEX is created for functional performance fabric. It is anti-static, anti-odor, breathable, and moisture-wicking. OYSTEX makes a way to reduce seafood industry waste and create an innovative fabric from what is typically viewed as trash. While natural oyster shell waste isn’t much of an environmental concern, when large quantities of shells are dumped back into the ocean, it causes severe ecosystem disruption. On land, oyster shells take several years to break down, resulting in the quick filling of landfills.

How it can be used: clothing, activewear, outdoor gear.

6. Fibe

Just when we thought there was no other way to use a potato, Fibe proves us wrong. Skip mashed, baked, fried, and distilled potato fiber is one of the newest innovative fabrics on the scene. With the patent-pending technology, Fibe claims the fabric could replace and have the capacity to fulfill up to 70% of the world’s demand for natural fiber. Created from the unusable stems and leaves of the potato, Fibe has the potential to change the fashion and agricultural industry. Fibe is biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable, making it an exciting alternative to synthetic fabric.

How it can be used: everyday clothing and apparel.

About the Author

Karmen Flores is a creative entrepreneur based in Michigan. Karmen shares all about plant-based and sustainable, intentional living on her blog Karmen Collective. From recommendations for all things plant-based to tips for living more sustainably, Karmen makes living with intention less intimidating and more accessible. You can connect with Karmen on Instagram.

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How to Care & Clean Your Organic Cotton Clothing

Organic cotton is rapidly gaining popularity, and for good reason!

As more people become aware of its environmental benefits, it's no wonder the global organic cotton market is booming. In 2023, it was worth a whopping $1,113.5 million. But wait, there's more—by 2032, it's projected to skyrocket to an incredible $25,890.2 million!

Why is everyone so excited about organic cotton?

Well, unlike conventional cotton, organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. This makes it much better for our planet and safer for farmers.

I remember the first time I switched to organic cotton. I felt a sense of pride knowing my choice was helping the environment. Plus, it felt incredibly soft and comfortable.

As we dive into the best ways to care for organic cotton, you'll see just how easy it is to keep these sustainable fabrics in top shape.

How Organic Cotton Is More Sustainable

When it comes to sustainability, organic cotton is a game-changer. Unlike conventional cotton, organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.

This makes a huge difference for the environment and the health of farmers and their communities.

Let's talk about water usage first. Conventional cotton is a notorious water guzzler, consuming vast amounts of water during its growth.

Organic cotton, on the other hand, uses up to 91% less water.

That's a significant reduction! Imagine how many swimming pools you could fill with that saved water.

Moreover, organic cotton farming practices focus on soil health. Techniques like crop rotation and composting enhance soil fertility and prevent erosion. Conventional cotton farming, however, often depletes the soil, leading to long-term damage. Healthier soil means healthier crops, which is a win-win for everyone.

Last year, I was fortunate to visit an organic cotton farm in Texas. The farmers proudly showed me their compost heaps and explained how they avoided chemical inputs. It was inspiring to see how dedicated they were to sustainable practices.

Plus, the cotton plants looked so vibrant and healthy!

Another major benefit of organic cotton is its lower carbon footprint. Conventional cotton farming relies heavily on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, which are derived from fossil fuels. Organic farming, by contrast, uses natural alternatives, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

But it's not just about the environment. Organic cotton is also better for the people who grow it. Without exposure to toxic chemicals, farmers enjoy better health and safer working conditions. This ethical aspect makes choosing organic cotton even more compelling.

One fun fact: Did you know that organic cotton can also be softer and more durable than conventional cotton?

This is because the fibers are not damaged by harsh chemicals during processing. So, not only are you making a sustainable choice, but you're also getting a superior product.

Now, let's compare organic cotton to rayon fabric.

Rayon is often touted as a sustainable alternative because it's made from plant cellulose. However, the process to produce rayon involves toxic chemicals that can be harmful to both the environment and workers. Organic cotton, in contrast, avoids these harmful substances entirely, making it a safer and more eco-friendly choice.

Plus, organic cotton is biodegradable, while rayon can sometimes contain non-biodegradable fibers.

As we move forward with our tips on caring for organic cotton, keep these benefits in mind. Caring for organic cotton isn't just about maintaining your clothes—it's about supporting a more sustainable and ethical world.

Master the Art of Cleaning and Caring for Organic Cotton

Caring for organic cotton can be simple and rewarding. I’ve personally tried and tested these methods based on intensive research and analysis.

From washing to drying, these tips will help you keep your organic cotton garments in top shape while ensuring they remain eco-friendly.

Why don’t we start now?

1. Wash in Cold Water

When it comes to washing organic cotton, cold water is your best friend. Using cold or lukewarm water helps prevent shrinkage and color fading. Hot water can break down the fibers faster, which is something we definitely want to avoid.

I learned this the hard way when I accidentally washed my favorite organic cotton shirt in hot water. It came out looking like it was made for a doll!

Since then, I’ve stuck to cold water, and my clothes have thanked me.

Not only does cold water help preserve your clothes, but it’s also more eco-friendly. It reduces energy consumption, which is great for our planet. Plus, cold water washing can be just as effective at cleaning as hot water, especially with modern detergents designed for cold washes.

So, remember to turn that dial to cold. Your organic cotton clothes will stay vibrant and last longer, and you'll be doing a little something extra for the environment.

2. Use Mild Detergents

Choosing the right detergent is crucial for caring for organic cotton. Opt for mild, eco-friendly detergents free from harsh chemicals and bleach. These detergents are gentler on the fabric and better for the environment.

I once used a regular detergent on my organic cotton sheets, thinking it wouldn’t make a big difference.

Boy, was I wrong!

They lost their softness and started to look worn out after just a few washes. Since switching to a mild, eco-friendly detergent, my sheets feel as good as new.

Eco-friendly detergents not only protect your clothes but also reduce the amount of harmful chemicals, like bleach, released into our waterways. They are specially formulated to be effective in cold water, which is another win for the environment.

So, next time you’re shopping for laundry detergent, look for labels that say “mild” or “eco-friendly.” Your organic cotton items will stay soft, vibrant, and durable.

3. Go for Gentle Wash Cycle

When washing organic cotton, always select the gentle cycle on your washing machine. This minimizes wear and tear on the fabric, keeping your clothes in great condition.

Heavy-duty cycles can be too rough, causing fibers to break down faster.

The gentle cycle uses slower spin speeds and less agitation, which is perfect for delicate fabrics like organic cotton. This way, your favorite pieces stay soft and vibrant, wash after wash.

By opting for a gentle wash cycle, you’re extending your clothes' life and reducing energy consumption. It's a small change that makes a big difference.

4. Air Dry When Possible

Air drying is the best way to care for your organic cotton clothes.

Hang them outside or lay them flat on a drying rack to maintain their shape and prevent shrinkage. Machine drying can be harsh, causing delicate fabrics to wear out faster.

Air drying is also eco-friendly.

Reducing the use of your dryer means less energy consumption, helping to lower your carbon footprint. And there’s nothing quite like the fresh scent of clothes dried in the open air.

If you're worried about wrinkles, give your clothes a good shake before hanging them. For items that can lose their shape, like sweaters, laying them flat on a drying rack is a great solution.

This simple change benefits both your wardrobe and the environment, making it a practical and sustainable choice.

5. Always Choose Low Heat Ironing

If ironing is necessary, always use a low to medium heat setting to protect your organic cotton. High heat can scorch the fabric, causing permanent damage. I remember the one time I mistakenly used high heat on a favorite shirt—it ended up with a shiny spot that wouldn't go away.

Not a good memory, I have tot say!

Low-heat ironing is effective because it smooths out wrinkles without breaking down the fibers. For best results, iron while the fabric is slightly damp. The moisture helps relax the fibers, making it easier to remove creases.

I find that ironing my organic cotton clothes when they are a bit damp gives a crisp, clean finish. It’s a little trick that makes a big difference.

Using low heat also ensures that your clothes retain their natural softness and durability. It’s a gentle way to keep your organic cotton looking fresh and new.

Your clothes will thank you.

6. Avoid Chlorine Bleach: It’s a BIG No

Using chlorine bleach on organic cotton is a definite no.

Chlorine bleach can weaken and damage the fibers, causing them to break down over time. Instead, opt for natural alternatives like baking soda or white vinegar to brighten your whites.

You need to consider the environmental impact as well. Chlorine bleach in wastewater can form trihalomethanes, which are potential carcinogens that contaminate drinking water.

Additionally, chlorine bleach in cleaning products can react with other ingredients, like surfactants and fragrances, forming halogenated volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs can also be emitted when bleach reacts with organic matter on dirty surfaces.

Halogenated VOCs are associated with various adverse health effects, and some are potential carcinogens.

A research from the World Bank says that about 17% to 20% of the world's industrial water pollution comes from the textile industry, including the use of bleach.

I’ve switched to using baking soda and white vinegar for my laundry, and the results are impressive. My clothes stay bright, and I feel better knowing I’m making an eco-friendly choice.

So, skip the chlorine bleach. Use natural alternatives to keep your organic cotton clothes looking their best while protecting the environment.

7. Take Quick Action Against Stains

Let's face it, we're all a bit clumsy and spills happen.

If you spill something on your organic cotton clothes, act quickly to prevent permanent stains. Start by blotting the stain with a clean cloth—don’t rub, as this can spread the stain and push it deeper into the fibers.

Next, rinse the affected area with cold water. For tougher stains, apply a small amount of mild detergent directly to the stain and gently work it in with your fingers. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing again.

If the stain persists, use a natural remover like baking soda or white vinegar. These eco-friendly options are effective and safe for your organic cotton clothes.

Quick action is key to maintaining the quality and longevity of your favorite pieces.

Keeping Your Organic Cotton in Top Shape

Caring for your organic cotton garments is more than just a routine; it's a commitment to sustainability and quality.

By following these tips—using gentle, eco-friendly detergents, opting for cold washes, and air drying—you can ensure your organic cotton stays soft, durable, and vibrant for years.

Additionally, treating stains promptly and storing your items properly will help maintain their pristine condition. Remember, every small step you take in caring for your organic cotton makes a difference, not only in preserving your clothing but also in supporting a healthier planet.

Embrace these practices and enjoy the lasting benefits of your eco-friendly wardrobe.

About the Author

Samira is an Electronics and Communications Engineer by profession, but deep inside, her heart is a nomad! She's a state champion debater, a public speaker, a scriptwriter, a theater actress, but most importantly — A GREEN CITIZEN! She thinks of herself as a storyteller who thrives on enjoying life to the fullest and telling everyone the tales of life.

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What Is Washable Paper?

Washable paper isn’t your typical flimsy material. It’s a highly durable and environmentally friendly material. Also known as washable kraft paper, this material can be easily recycled, reused, and decomposed.

It’s usually used as an alternative to leather and plastic, which are detrimental to the environment. Washable paper also doesn’t contribute to microfiber pollution during washing like synthetic materials do.

What Is Washable Paper Made Of?

This sustainable material is produced from cellulose fiber — a substrate of wood. The brand Zuperzozial’s products contain between 60% and 90% cellulose fiber, along with plant-based latex to retain its eco-friendly properties.

Washable paper sourced from certified responsible wood sources can make excellent materials for bags and accessories. It provides flexibility, feasibility and ease of application, making it a promising canvas for artists and designers. Its lightweight and versatile properties make it easy to cut, sew and wash like fabric.

The paper also boasts durability due to cellulose and latex layering, making it strong enough to withstand repeated use without deforming and tearing. Like animal-based leather, the fiber-based texture crinkles and softens with long-term washing and handling. For instance, Tuscany-based company UASHMAMA offers various types of bags made from washable paper — keep an eye on some items with animal leather details, though.

Why Is Washable Paper Relevant Today?

Given its advantages, it’s no wonder why washable paper is becoming a popular sustainable alternative. Here are some reasons why designers and consumers love this material.

It’s Versatile

Sew, print or emboss on it — the possibilities with washable paper are endless. Its versatility offers various avenues for designers to satisfy the growing demand for sustainable materials while helping the planet. Additionally, the ability of this material to develop a patina gives it a sophisticated look that many consumers desire.

It also provides a unique texture — it feels like paper but is tear-proof while mimicking animal-sourced leather’s appearance. Its lightness and durability make it a popular choice among eco-friendly bag designers.

It’s Good for the Environment

Millions of bags, clothes and accessories are disposed of every year. It can take up to 200 years for synthetic textiles to decompose. During decomposition, toxic chemicals from dyes leach into water sources and generate greenhouse gasses into the air. Dyes contain heavy metals that risk marine biodiversity and public health.

Meanwhile, washable paper is made of all-natural materials, making it recyclable and compostable. For instance, 93% of the water used to produce Out of The Woods’ Supernatural Paper is recycled and returned to its main source. This process helps reduce the environmental impact by conserving water.

You may think the world has enough water to sustain humans for many years, but statistics tell otherwise. While only 3% of the Earth’s water is fresh, only 0.5% is available for consumption. Supporting brands that use recycled or reused water to produce washable paper means helping save the oceans, too.

It’s Easy to Decorate

Washable paper may come in various colors and designs to make bags, gift boxes, notebook covers and other accessories. Manufacturers combine decorative elements such as rhinestones, paint and fabric to enhance their products. Additionally, just like traditional paper, you can print on washable paper.

It’s Durable

Cellulose's long fiber structure strengthens the material, making it tear-resistant and waterproof. During production, washable paper undergoes various treatment processes like washing, stretching and crumpling to make it more robust. Washable paper items like bags are coated with plant-based latex, which adds a protective layer for longevity.

The Many Uses of Washable Paper

Discover how you can incorporate washable paper into your lifestyle.

Bags

Washable papers are commonly used in the bag industry for their durability and flexibility. These bags are mainly advertised as a substitute for leather. Here are the main advantages of using a washable paper bag:

Reusable: A washable paper bag is more durable and has a lower carbon footprint than regular market totes. You can always bring it on grocery runs to eliminate the need to request plastic at the register. It’s also hand washable, making it easy to remove dirt or spills.
Easy to carry: These sustainable bags are excellent for transporting clothing, household items and food. You can use them as grocery or beach bags without worrying about stretching them.
Customizable: Washable paper bags make excellent promotional materials. They're ideal if you’re looking for a sustainable way to market your brand as an entrepreneur. Multiple washes will give the bag a more vintage appeal, adding to its sophisticated vibe.

Wallets

Many brands also offer washable paper wallets. These highly tear- and water-resistant items make them a cruelty-free alternative to leather. Washable paper wallets also develop patinas, so they should look more beautiful with time.

Hats

Polyester is a popular hat material. While it’s wrinkle-resistant, it’s not the most environmentally friendly material. Its impacts include greenhouse gas emissions, depletion of natural resources and reduced exosystem quality.

Washable paper hats bring a sense of style and lightness to the industry. They’re lightweight, providing a comfortable feel during the summer season. The unique texture adds a stylish flair to every look.

Planters

Plastic options are generally the go-to for many plant enthusiasts. However, they only have short shelf lives. Once they break, they’re quickly disposed of and end up in landfills. Plastic pollution leads to deforestation and depletion of resources.

Instead of using plastic pots, consider transforming your dull, washable paper bag into planters. Cut them into smaller pouches or simply fold the flaps of your tote to create a sustainable planter.

Are Washable Paper Products Vegan?

Most washable paper items are made from cellulose and plant-derived latex, making them cruelty-free. They seldom contain animal-derived ingredients, but some may have been embellished with genuine leather or other synthetic materials. It’s best to research or ask the brand about the main sources.

Why Should You Buy Washable Paper Products?

Whether you want to start an eco-conscious lifestyle or look for creative ways to be more sustainable, using washable paper products provides many benefits. Here’s why you should make the switch today.

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Over two billion metric tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) are generated annually. These numbers seem huge now, but that’s nothing compared to the forecast that MSW is expected to increase by 70% by 2050. Switching to washable paper items is a small yet significant step toward reducing your carbon footprint.

Unlike single-use plastics, washable paper items can be used and washed multiple times. You can easily repurpose them as household storage organizers or planters when you no longer need them. By switching from fast-fashion items to sustainable bags, you can reduce the waste you generate.

Save Money

Washable paper bags, wallets and other items are designed to last many years, eliminating the need to shop for new replacements. There may be some upfront costs, but these will soon even out.

Express Your Creativity

A blank, washable paper item can be easily customized through printing, painting, dyeing or embossing, allowing you to unleash creativity. For instance, you can embellish your sustainable hat with gems, florals and other elements.

Contribute to the Circular Economy

The best thing about washable paper items is they’re recyclable at the end of their life cycle. This means you can repurpose these items into new, valuable products. Supporting brands that manufacture these materials enables you to participate in a more sustainable consumption model.

Brands That OFFER Washable Paper Products

Discover companies that are leading the way in washable paper fashion.

Out of the Woods

This brand produces bags using washable paper and jute. Its products are all Forest Stewardship Council-certified, meaning all resources come from ethically managed forests. Out of the Woods offers totes, coolers and snack bags for outdoor adventures.

UASHMAMA

UASHMAMA offers washable paper bags in various styles and sizes. On its website, you’ll see many ways to use these items. For instance, a small pouch can be a planter, while a big bag could be a hamper.

Papercutz

Papercutz is an Australia-based business that offers washable paper products, from totes to wallets. It’s a haven for every sustainable individual who wants to shift to washable paper items. Cardholders, laptop sleeves and crossbody bags are available for everyday use.

Letterpress PLAY

Elevate your sustainable fashion game with this washable hat from Letterpress PLAY. It’s made from 100% sustainable and recyclable materials, which can block harmful UV rays. Wear it on sunny days or as an everyday accessory.

Try Washable Paper Products

Incorporating washable paper items into your life is easier than you think. Their reusability, durability and versatility make them excellent for any use. More importantly, washable bags and accessories provide a stylish way to save the environment. What’s not to love?

About the Author

Mia Barnes is a health and beauty writer with a passion for sustainable living and wellness. Mia is also the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine, an online publication that covers healthy and eco-friendly living. Follow Mia and Body+Mind on Twitter and LinkedIn!