Last Updated on April 10, 2025
You’ve probably heard of polyester fabric before: It’s commonly used to make clothes and home furnishings. But what is it and how does it compare to recycled polyester? Which is more sustainable?
Personally, I try to opt for natural fibers whenever I can. Synthetic materials shed microplastics over time, aren’t as durable, and can’t be composted at the end of their life. Plus, I don’t really like how synthetic materials feel on my skin.
However, there are certain items that are harder to find synthetic-free, like athletic-wear and period underwear. These clothing items tend to need synthetics to offer stretchability and enhance performance.
When I first started going zero waste, I wanted to live a completely plastic free lifestyle, even free of recycled plastic. But then I started learning a lot more about recycled plastic materials, emissions and looking at the bigger picture.
Recycling plastic, like recycled polyester, definitely has its place in the sustainability movement. If you’re wondering which is better for the environment, here’s everything you need to know.
what is polyester?
Polyester is a synthetic fabric made from petroleum-based chemicals, specifically polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Petroleum (aka crude oil) is a non-renewable material that is often extracted from the earth unsustainably.
To create virgin polyester, 70 million barrels of oil are used annually, and turning this oil into fabric releases a lot of toxins into the environment.
However, most of our clothes are made of polyester because of how cheap it is to make. If you check a clothing label, chances are it will contain a certain amount of polyester in it.
Polyester is non-biodegradable, meaning it can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills.
Its widespread use in fast fashion exacerbates the issue, as discarded garments often end up as long-lasting waste. Not so fun fact: We have enough clothes on the planet right now to for the next six generations!
what is recycled polyester?
Recycled polyester, often referred to as rPET, is made by repurposing existing plastic waste, such as used PET bottles or discarded fishing nets. This process reduces the need for virgin raw materials and diverts plastic waste from landfills and oceans.
The production of rPET uses significantly less energy compared to virgin polyester and results in lower greenhouse gas emissions. It’s a step towards a circular economy, where materials are reused rather than discarded.
Kayaness, a sustainable period company I co-founded with Shelby Orme, utilizes recycled polyester. The period underwear is made using ethical manufacturing and undergoes rigorous testing for safety.
Plus, period underwear is reusable and helps keep a lot of single-use period products out of landfills (the average pad contains four plastic bags worth of plastic in it!).
RELATED: How to Use Period Underwear: The Ultimate Guide to Period Panties
There is so much plastic in the world — we should be turning it into something. In fact, we shouldn’t be using any virgin plastic! After all, the most ecofriendly plastic is the one that already exists.
And plastic is only recycled 5-6% of the time, down from 9%. If we want to see that recycling rate go up, the best thing we can do is support brands that utilize recycled materials.
is recycled polyester a good material?
In comparison to virgin polyester, yes, recycled polyester is a good material.
RPET repurposes plastic waste, such as PET bottles, reducing the need for virgin resources and diverting waste from landfills and oceans.
It requires significantly less energy (59% less to be exact) to produce compared to virgin polyester.
Additionally, rPET retains the durability and versatility of virgin polyester, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
does recycled polyester release microplastics?
Yes, recycled polyester does release microplastics. Like virgin polyester, it sheds tiny plastic fibers during washing and wear.
These microplastics can enter waterways and contribute to environmental pollution. While rPET reduces the need for new plastic production, addressing the issue of microplastic pollution remains a challenge for both recycled and virgin synthetic fabrics.
can recycled polyester be washed?
Yes, recycled polyester can be washed, and it is generally easy to care for. It can be machine-washed, but it’s recommended to use cold water and a gentle cycle to preserve the fabric’s quality.
For example, Kayaness (made from recycled polyester) can be machine-washed on delicate in cold water with a mild detergent. Just make sure to air dry them!
To minimize microplastic shedding with polyester fabrics, consider using a washing bag designed to capture fibers or washing less frequently. Always check the care label for specific instructions.
is recycled polyester cool in summer?
Recycled polyester is lightweight and moisture-wicking, which can help keep you dry in hot weather.
However, it is less breathable than natural fibers like cotton or linen, which makes it less ideal for staying cool in summer.
It’s a better choice for activewear or situations where moisture wicking is a priority, but for ultimate breathability and comfort, natural fabrics might be preferable.
which is more sustainable?
In terms of polyester vs. recycled polyester, you may be wondering which is more sustainable. Recycled materials are always going to be more sustainable than virgin materials.
Here are the key differences.
environmental impact:
- Virgin polyester relies on non-renewable fossil fuels and contributes to resource scarcity.
- Recycled polyester reduces plastic waste and conserves resources, making it a more sustainable option.
energy and water consumption:
- Producing recycled polyester uses about half the energy required for virgin polyester.
- The extraction of virgin raw materials and manufacturing them into single use items uses up water. Recycling reduces the need for materials, thus creating a smaller water footprint.
durability and quality:
- Both materials are durable, but recycled polyester offers comparable performance while being more eco-friendly.
microplastics:
- Both virgin and recycled polyester shed microplastics during washing, which can pollute waterways. Innovations in fabric technology are needed to address this issue.
Recycled polyester is the more sustainable choice. By repurposing existing materials, it reduces the environmental footprint of production and helps tackle the global plastic waste crisis.
However, it’s not a perfect solution, as it still sheds microplastics and relies on synthetic materials. The most sustainable choice will always be to thrift natural fabrics and materials when possible. Or support sustainable, nontoxic clothing brands.
What are your thoughts on recycled polyester? Do you utilize it in your wardrobe? Let me know in the comments!
The post Polyester vs. Recycled Polyester: Which is More Sustainable? appeared first on Going Zero Waste.
Polyester vs. Recycled Polyester: Which is More Sustainable?
Curating a conscious home is a thoughtful process involving much consideration — who made my products, how they were made, and what are they made from — and this guide aims to support you on your journey towards finding ethical and sustainable home decor you truly love.
What is Sustainable Home Decor?
Sustainable home decor includes any home decor that is made in a way that takes into consideration both the makers and the planet. Sustainable home decor will be ethically made using eco-friendly and natural materials. Eco-friendly decor will also be produced using sustainable supply chain practices. This includes using renewable energy and recycled or compostable packaging.
While there are numerous sustainable home decor brands, some of which are featured below, first consider what’s already been made in order to prevent contributing to new waste. Secondhand, used, or DIY home decor options are typically more sustainable than buying new.
What is Ethical and Fair Trade Home Decor?
Ethical and Fair Trade home decor is produced in a way that adheres to Fair Trade standards and is, ideally, Fair Trade Certified. Fair Trade means paying artisans and makers a fair, living wage and providing ethical working conditions. Ethical home decor also includes supporting goods made by artisans using traditional heritage techniques and art forms. Many cultures around the world are at risk of losing their age-old artisanal crafts forever in the age of mass manufacturing.
It’s important to note that sometimes a major brand may use an “eco” fiber while still supporting irresponsible labor practices, and excessive production amounts that inevitably lead to a lot of waste. This is not true sustainability in my mind!
Most artisan-made home decor is ethically produced and directly supports the makers. However, it’s important to check if a brand or marketplace is transparent about their business practices to ensure they are ethical or Fair Trade.
Where Can You Find Sustainable Home Decor?
In terms of environmental sustainability, looking secondhand and vintage is always a great first place to look for sustainable home decor.
But if you’ve scoured those options and haven’t found what you’re looking for and/or if you’re looking to financially support artisans and traditional crafts around the globe, this shopping guide is designed for you. You’ll discover many brands with artfully designed and artisan handmade goods for furnishing any space among this list of decor brands.
All of the brands in this guide use natural and/or recycled fibers and avoid the use of virgin synthetics like polyester; however, some brands do use materials that are not the most environmentally-friendly option on the market, such as conventional cotton.
And of course, I wanted to choose brands that followed slow, thoughtful production practices, prioritizing artisan handmade over factory labor and quality over quantity.
So without further ado, here are my favorite small-batch, artisan-made, and ethical home decor brands.
Note that this guide includes affiliate links — as always, we only curate brands vetted for sustainability that we love (and that we think you’ll love too).
1. Urban Natural
Categories: Accent Pillows, Tabletop, Lighting, Wall Art & Mirrors, Blankets & Throws
Eco-friendly home retailer Urban Natural is on a mission to curate high-quality furniture (and other home goods) built with quality and free of toxic chemicals. Urban Natural carries several sustainable home decor brands, including artisan brands Ethnicraft and Jaipur Living as well as ethically USA-made brands Farmhouse Pottery and East Fork.
2. GOODEE
Categories: Pillows, Lighting, Wall Decor, Planters, Baskets, Blankets, Candles
GOODEE is an ethical marketplace featuring numerous sustainable artisan brands and designers. You’ll find a variety of beautifully crafted home decor goods to suit a wide range of styles. Goodee is a Climate Neutral and B Corp Certified company. They publish an annual impact report so you can easily ensure their business practices align with your values.
Our favorite brands on Goodee are Texidors, Baba Tree, Makaua, and Tensira.
3. Healthier Homes
Categories: Rugs, Lighting, Tabletop, Baskets, Wall Decor & Wallpaper
Founded after years running an award-winning healthy home building firm and publishing a book by the same name (Healthier Homes) this retailer is a go-to online destination for finding non-toxic home goods. The eco-friendly home decor on Healthier Homes is primarily made with natural materials like clay, cotton, seagrass, mango wood, and bamboo,
4. Will & Atlas
Categories: Baskets, Tabletop
Will & Atlas is a women-owned small business making most of their homewares from plant materials like jute, palm leaf, and hogla grass. Their natural fiber baskets are flexile but sturdy built to hold blankets, pillows, laundry, magazines, toys, or just to stand alone as a decor piece. You’ll also find jute coasters and placemats in their tabletop collection.
The brand is committed to ethical practices, partnering with nonprofit fair trade artisan groups in Bangladesh and craftspeople in the U.S. to build long-lasting production relationships.
5. Ten Thousand Villages
Categories: Baskets, Pillows, Throws, Candles, Wall Art, Planters & Vases
Founded 80 years ago, Ten Thousand Villages is the original fair trade store. Throughout the decades, the nonprofit business has continued their commitment to fair wages, safe working conditions, as well as sustainability.
As a founding member of the World Fair Trade Organization, with artisans around the world from under-resourced communities. Most of the products they carry are made from recycled, upcycled, and natural materials.
6. MagicLinen
Categories: Curtains, Kitchen Linens
Linen is an exceptional material for home decor — there’s a reason we say “kitchen linens!” It’s natural, beautiful, and is often high quality.
I purchased a set of linen curtains from Magic Linen one year ago and they remain one of my favorite home decor pieces. The fabric they use meets the OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, meaning its been tested for harmful substances.
7. Passion Lilie
Categories: Pillow Covers, Table Linens
Passion Lilie is a fair trade fashion and lifestyle brand with ethically made home decor, too. The Fair Trade Verified brand has handwoven cotton blankets, organic cotton kitchen linens, unique ornaments, and hand-dyed throw pillow covers.
Each piece is made by Passion Lilie’s partners in India who pay living wages and ensure a safe working environment. Beyond this, the brand supports efforts to enable artisans to continually develop their skills and creates opportunities for community development.
8. 54kibo
Categories: Throw Pillows, Wall Hangings & Artwork, Mirrors, Baskets, Rugs, Lighting
A destination for modern African artisanal decor, 54kibo curates a stunning selection of ethically made home decor. The pieces on 54kibo are made with time-honored techniques using locally sourced materials with rich histories. The designs are exceptional, but the stories behind them make the pieces beautiful additions to your home beyond the surface.
9. The Citizenry
Categories: Baskets, Planters & Vases, Tabletop, Wall Decor, Mirrors
The Citizenry partners with artisans around the world, ensuring safe conditions, fair wages, and offering grants to their artisan partners so that they can expand their businesses.
Their online collection features small-batch artisan-made home goods made from locally-sourced and natural materials like palm leaves and indigo dyes.
More Sustainable Home Guides:
Sustainable Furniture Brands to Furnish a Conscious Home
Best Eco-Friendly and Zero Waste Kitchen Products
Easy Swaps for a Low Waste, Sustainable Bathroom
The post 9 Beautiful Places to Source Ethical and Eco-Friendly Home Decor appeared first on Conscious Life & Style.
9 Beautiful Places to Source Ethical and Eco-Friendly Home Decor
Take a look at why hemp is heralded as a hero material and discover 14 hemp clothing brands that have tapped into its sustainable potential.
The exploration of fabrics has always been a starting point for sustainable innovation in fashion. After all, fabrics provide tangible proof that change is possible while having a direct impact on the environment in one way or another. Plus fabrics are responsible for an outsized proportion of a fashion brand’s carbon footprint and overall environmental impact, including biodiversity loss and pollution.
So, What is Hemp Fabric?
Hemp is a bast fiber produced from the cannabis sativa plant, where every part of the plant can be utilized for over 25,000 industrial uses including clothing, biofuel, bricks, paper, and textiles.
Contrary to its popular association, hemp is actually the sober sister to marijuana. Unlike its recreational sibling that’s grown for its psychoactive THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) properties, hemp contains less than 0.3% THC, a value that was the driving force behind the legalization of hemp production in the 2018 Farm Bill. So while you can’t really get high from hemp, you can definitely enjoy its material benefits — which are plenty!
What is Hemp Clothing?
The simple answer is that hemp clothes are garments made from hemp fabric! But the important caveat here is that most hemp clothes on the market today are not made from 100% hemp fabric. They are usually blended with other fibers, like cotton.
At this point, hemp fabric manufacturing is not at the scale or technological level that the manufacturing of cotton (the most popular natural material) is, making 100% hemp clothing more expensive to produce. Also, pure hemp fabric is also known to be quite stiff until a couple dozen washes later, so blending it with a fiber like cotton can make it softer and easier to wear on the offset.
100% hemp fiber content clothing does exist, it’s just rare at this point. Though we do think this will change with more sustainable material investment happening in the textiles industry.
Is Hemp Clothing Comfortable?
It depends! The softness of hemp clothing will vary based on how the fabric was produced and if it is blended with other fibers like cotton or lyocell. Pure hemp clothing can be rougher than cotton, but hemp is known to get softer with every wash.
Also, since hemp is a natural bast fiber that comes from the softer parts of the plant’s stalk or stem, it is softer than the coarser leaf fibers.
Can Hemp Clothing Protect From The Sun?
A lesser known benefit of hemp clothing is that it can reportedly even help shield you from harmful UV rays. According to skin cancer research, a fabric’s UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) value is a number that coincides with the fraction of UV rays it allows to pass through and hit your skin — the higher the UPF number, the better the protection.
Research claims that hemp has a UPF of >50 (according to European standards) due to natural pigments and lignin within the fibers, which act as UV absorbers.
Is Hemp Clothing Sustainable?
There are a lot of benefits to hemp clothing. But don’t just take our word for it, we’ve listed some of hemp’s most impressive sustainable qualities below:
1. Hemp is not resource-intensive
Hemp can be grown under a variety of agricultural and ecological conditions and has a capacity to grow rapidly.
Hemp clothing vs. cotton: With a high yield of 250% more fiber than cotton, hemp requires less land to grow, has no need for harmful pesticides or chemicals, and needs as little as 1/3rd of the water compared to conventional cotton. (Though individual use cases may vary based on the region that each of the crops are grown.)
2. Hemp is a restorative plant
Growing hemp can also help contribute to the maintenance of soil quality, courtesy of its anchored roots which prevent soil erosion and nutrient loss.
In fact, research shows that hemp can be used to restore contaminated soils through ‘phytoremediation’ — a process that has proven successful in the early 90s when industrial hemp was planted in some of the polluted Ukrainian regions near the Chernobyl disaster where much of the land was rendered useless. The experiments showed that hemp helped remove radioactive elements from the soil.
3. Hemp can absorb carbon more than other plants
Hem can act as a carbon sink. According to a Cambridge University researcher, a hectare of hemp can absorb between 8-15 tonnes of CO2, giving hemp plants a vital role in reversing carbon emissions.
Impressed yet? Ahead, discover 14 brands that have some of the best takes on this sustainably versatile fiber.
Note that this guide includes affiliates. As always, all brands meet very high standards for sustainability and are brands we love that we think you’ll love too.
Where to Find Sustainable Hemp Clothing
1. Patagonia
Have an outdoor adventure coming up? Run for the hills in some of Patagonia’s functional hemp styles that’ll have you covered no matter what path you set foot on. Whether it’s a jacket, sweatshirt, pair of overalls, or technical pants, these styles are hard-wearing and made to last.
Patagonia stands by hemp as one of its hero fabrics and claims to consciously partner with suppliers that use unique processing techniques to minimize waste. The brand has also created unique performance materials by blending hemp with organic cotton, recycled polyester, and TENCEL
lyocell.
Many of Patagonia’s clothes and gear are sewn at Fair Trade Certified factories that ensure all workers earn a living wage.
Size range: US 0–18
Price: $$-$$$