subject: Everything You Need To Know About Natural Fiber Clothing [print this page] Over the past few decades, natural fibers have slowly been replaced in our clothing with man-made fibers, such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, and polypropylene. Many people dont give this a second thought. Synthetics are cheaper and mass produced, so it seems like a good thing, right? Wrong.
Synthetic fibers are manufactured from many chemicals, exposing humans, animals, and the environment to these chemicals during their production. Natural fiber clothing, on the other hand, is free from chemicals and is made from materials raised or grown in compliance with organic standards.
Natural fiber clothing offers many benefits:
* Environmentally responsible - In this era of heightened environmental awareness, we are all trying to do our part to respect the Earth and save the planet. Natural fibers are manufactured in an environmentally responsible manner. No chemicals are used, and no genetically modified seeds are used either.
* Comfort - Natural fiber clothing is just more comfortable than clothing made from synthetic materials. Thats because natural fibers breathe better than man-made fibers. They create natural ventilation, so you can stay cool and comfortable on a hot summers day. Furthermore, natural fiber clothing is great for those with skin allergies, making wearers less prone to skin rashes and itching.
* Sustainable - Natural fibers are a renewable resource. It requires far less energy during its growth than is used for the production of man-made, synthetic materials. At the end of their life cycle, natural fibers are completely biodegradable.
* Fashionable - Natural fiber clothing comes in every style imaginable. No matter what youre looking for, you can find the outfit made from natural fibers. Look great and make a difference!
An Overview of the 15 Natural Fibers
Natural fibers can be divided into two categories - plant fibers and animal fibers. Below, youll learn a little more about the 15 major natural fibers.
Plant Fibers
1. Abaca is used for many purposes, including to make ropes, twines, fishing lines, sack cloths, clothing, curtains, furniture, and much more.
2. Coir is a fiber extracted from coconuts, and it is commonly used in mattresses, ropes, automobile upholstery, and doormats.
3. Cotton is the most common fiber found in natural fiber clothing, and it offers a host of benefits over synthetic materials.
4. Flax is a strong, durable vegetable fiber used in clothing, linens, furniture, and a host of other products.
5. Hemp has recently been cottonized making it a suitable fiber for quality clothing.
6. Jute is a strong fiber woven into curtains, upholstery, carpets, rugs, lamp shades, shoes, and more.
7. Ramie is one of the strongest natural fibers, and it is similar to flax in many ways.
8. Sisal is too tough for clothing, but it is used in furniture, specialty paper, mattresses, carpets, and wall coverings.
Animal Fibers
9. Alpaca wool is primarily used in many fashion applications, such as clothing, accessories, and rugs.
10. Angora wool is a silky, smooth fiber used in high-end knitwear.
11. Camel hair is a fine, soft material that is versatile enough to be used in all types of garments, from sports coats to sweaters.
12. Cashmere is incredibly soft to the touch, and it is used in high-end clothing, such as fine sweaters.
13. Mohair is soft and silky, making it the perfect fiber for clothing and accessories (such as scarves and stoles).
14. Silk is still considered the queen of fabrics thanks to its natural beauty and comfort.
15. Wool is a versatile fiber that is used in everything from clothing to household fabrics.
