When it comes to sourcing sustainable fabrics, there are plenty more options out there than simply purchasing 100% cotton t-shirts. Not only can all garment types be produced sustainably, but it’s the production process itself that contributes to their overall environmental impact.
Being sustainable clothing printing specialists, we at Clothes2order, understand what it takes to make textiles as ethically and environmentally-friendly as possible. We have therefore put together this guide to help you with your search for greener fabrics.
So, if you’re interested in learning more about sustainable fabrics, brands, and how to identify them, keep reading!
An FYI – Bristol are leading the way in being the most sustainable city in uk!
What are sustainable fabrics?
Sustainable fabric materials are, in the simplest terms, both ethical and eco-friendly. These textiles are sourced from recycled materials or sustainable crops, manufactured in ways that have minimal impact on the planet, and produced by workers who are properly supported and paid a living wage.
How can you spot sustainable fabrics?
It all comes down to the labels! When you’re shopping (whether online or in-person) look for the following certifications to help you spot eco-friendly fabrics:
GOTS
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is recognised as the world’s leading processing standard for fabrics made from organic fibres, aiming to define the requirements that ensure the organic status of those textiles. It defines the social and environmental criteria across the supply chain, from manufacturing to labelling, in order to provide credible assurance for the consumer.
OEKO-TEX®
OEKO-TEX tests textiles for harmful substances and thus provides certifications for various aspects of the manufacturing process. If a textile carries the OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 label, you can be sure that every part of the item is safe for humans. Their labs across the globe are constantly working to develop test methods and define limit values that are the basis of their trusted standards:
- The product labels OEKO-TEX® MADE IN GREEN, OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, OEKO-TEX® ORGANIC COTTON and OEKO-TEX® LEATHER STANDARD
- The production facility certification OEKO-TEX® STeP (Sustainable Textile & Leather Production)
- The chemicals certification OEKO-TEX® ECO PASSPORT
- The certification OEKO-TEX® RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS for managing due diligence in supply chains
Cradle to Cradle®
Cradle to Cradle sees waste as an eternal resource; it aims to make community and product development function in the same way as a healthy ecological system, where all resources are used effectively and cyclically. In order for this to work, all materials in products must be kept clean and should not be mixed. Or, if this is not possible, a separation system that can be applied after the item is discarded must be in place. The C2C methodology is based on the concept that “waste = food”.
Fairtrade
Fairtrade sourcing shows customers a commitment to paying fair prices to farmers and workers in the supply chain. Not only does it benefit farmers and workers, it benefits your business too. You gain the highest customer awareness in any certification and you gain trust – eight out of 10 UK consumers trust the FAIRTRADE Mark. Your business benefits from stronger, more resilient supply chains and Fairtrade’s impact on the ground gives you results to shout about.
Your customers will feel pride that their seemingly small everyday choices are part of something bigger. And we hope you’ll feel proud too.
amfori BSCI
The amfori Business Social Compliance Initiative (amfori BSCI) provides a recognised methodology for identifying and remediating risks in global supply chains, providing a code of conduct with a set of values and principles that help members improve their own policies and practices. Complying with international regulations, these principles apply to all sectors worldwide – including textiles.
Examples of Sustainable Fabrics
We stock a selection of sustainable clothing created with certified ethical and environmentally responsible fabrics. Certain brands also ensure their entire ranges are organic (and vegan). These include…
Anthem
Anthem pride themselves on sourcing as ethically as possible. All fabrics used in Anthem clothing conform to the OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 and comply with the EU general product safety derivative; they refuse to employ harmful dyes, colourants, or substances during manufacturing. On top of this, their garments never derive from animal products.
Anthem also respects the labour principles in the amfori BSCI code of conduct and only selects factories that recognise workers’ rights, have high standards and reasonable working hours and conditions. The factory also has ambitious sustainability targets to reduce emissions, water, energy and waste through their creation of sustainable fabrics. When you put on an Anthem tee, you can be sure it has been created legally, through fair and honest practices, and without exploiting people or the planet.
Stanley/Stella
Our Stanley/Stella clothing is defined by its quality, durability, and comfort. Each of their chosen fabrics meets strict criteria: 100% of the cotton is organic, most of the polyester is recycled, and every single product is designed to last. This means that these eco-friendly materials are not only durable but kind to the environment and wearer’s skin.
Stanley/Stella’s entire production chain benefits from the strictest environmental certifications and labels in the market. Additionally, the company asserts that manufacturing in Asia is a good thing when done properly. This means respecting the rights of the individuals that they employ, as well as offering the means to acquire new skills and receive education and training.
Sustainable Printing
Sustainability, however, goes beyond simple textiles. As custom clothing specialists, we can ensure that your products are green from the eco-friendly fabrics they’re made of, to the custom applications printed on them.
Greenprinted™ is our signature eco-friendly printing process, notable because:
- It involves 95% less water than traditional printing methods
- It uses NeoPigment inks, which are non-hazardous, non-toxic, 100% biodegradable, vegan-friendly, and safe for babies
- It offers great quality and vibrancy, with no limit on colour choices
So, if you’re ready to make your next personalised clothing order, feel free to have a browse of our expansive stock with personalised t-shirts, personalised hoodies, custom jackets and more. If you have any more questions regarding individual items or our processes, don’t hesitate to contact our helpful customer service team!
