Choosing Safe Fabric for Clothing

With toxic ingredients being added to many fabrics theses days, it's hard to know which fabrics are safe and which ones are toxic. Here are some natural fabrics that are safe to use:

Cotton. 100% pure cotton is milled from the fibers of the cotton plant. Cotton is lightweight, absorbent and easy to sew. 

Hemp. More absorbent and insulating than cotton, Hemp is the best natural fiber for clothing available. It is stronger and more durable than wool, and it's soft, creamy color allows it to be processed without any kind of bleaching.. a real bonus to the environment!

Linen: Made from the fibers of the  Flax plant, Linen is another lightweight, absorbent material. It is a just a hair heavier than cotton. 

Wool: Wool is gathered from the thick winter coats of sheep. Wool is heavy but highly insulating. It is best used for sweaters, socks and outerwear such as hats and scarves. It is not recommended for use as outerwear in extended outdoor environments, as it does not wick moisture away from the body. 

Remember, just because the materials say that they are made from natural fibers, doesn't necessarily mean they are safe. Fabrics that contain dyes or are bleached may not be safe. When choosing fabrics, choose uncolored, unbleached fabrics made from organic materials.

 

If you love color, try dying them yourself with natural dyes! Onion skin creates a beautiful yellow-orange color. Blueberries create a rich purple/blue color. Poke berries create a gorgeous magenta and Daisy Fleabane creates a pretty mint-green. Cranberries make a nice reddish/purple color as well. Experiment and have fun! 

Be well!