An Overview Of The Top Natural Fibers

For much of the history of the textile industry

, natural fibers were used to make clothing, linens, and other products for the home. In recent years, however, synthetic fibers and materials made from various chemical concoctions have begun to take over certain sectors of the industry because these unnatural fibers are often mass-produced. Natural fibers are healthier, more sustainable, more eco-friendly, and more comfortable than these synthetics, so it is important to understand what different options for natural fibers are available and to look for these natural materials when you are purchasing products for your body or your home.

There are many different natural fibers that exist and that are grown or processed throughout the world, especially in developing countries. These natural fibers can be divided into two broad categories: plant fibers and animal fibers. In both cases, the natural fibers occur in nature and are not mass-produced or created by man in labs using various chemicals. Plant and animal fibers take very little energy to grow or process, and they are 100 percent biodegradable so they wont add to the overcrowding of landfills. Each of the different types of natural fibers also has its own unique qualities that make it well-suited to different applications. For example, some types of natural fibers and their properties include:

Abaca. Abaca is a natural plant fiber that was often used to make rope. Today, abaca fibers are a possible alternative to glass fibers that are used in cars.

Coir. Coir is a natural plant fiber that is derived from a coconuts outer shell. This short, coarse fiber is used to make paintbrushes and other brushes, car seats and mattresses.

Cotton. Cotton is perhaps the most famous and widely-used of natural fibers. Cotton is used for clothing, bedding and countless other household and industrial products.

Flax. Flax is a strong plant fiber and has a long tradition of being woven into textiles.

Hemp. Hemp has been demonstrated to have anti-bacterial properties. Hemp is often used in clothing, especially by those in the eco-fashion movement.

Jute. Jute is another plant fiber whose strong threads are used to make sackcloth.

Sisal. Another plant fiber, sisal is coarse and strong and, like abaca, is used to replace glass fibers in automobiles. Sisal is also used frequently in furniture.

Wool. Wool is a favored natural fiber that comes from sheep. Wool has insulating properties and can keep you cool in summer and warm in winter.

Silk. Silk is another animal fiber and is considered to be a luxurious and beautiful material used for fine clothing and other household applications.

Cashmere. Like silk, cashmere is an animal fiber that is considered a luxury material when used in clothing and household items. Cashmere is incredibly soft to the touch.

These are just a few examples of some of the many natural fibers that can be used to make comfortable, functional products. When you purchase your next piece of clothing or the next decorative item for your home, take the time to make sure you buy something made from natural fibers.

by: Judith Dannenhauer

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