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Materials guide

Is Cotton Plastic-Free?

Yes. In our glossary, cotton is a Tier 1 material (all natural): sourced directly from nature, free from plastics and synthetic processes.

About cotton

A soft, breathable, absorbent, and versatile natural fiber grown from the fluffy bolls of cotton plants.

Uses: Commonly used in clothing (shirts, t-shirts, hoodies, socks, underwear), bedding (sheets, towels, pillows, duvet covers), home textiles (curtains, tablecloths), and upholstery.

Good to know: Conventional cotton is one of the world's dirtiest crops as cultivation heavily relies on pesticides, herbicides (glyphosate), and fertilizers, raising concerns about environmental pollution, soil health, and potential health risks for farmers and consumers. This is why some brands and consumers push for "100% organic cotton." Organic cotton skips the harsh chemicals, making it a more eco-friendly and healthier choice.

Upcycled Cotton

Upcycled cotton is derived from cotton fabric scraps and secondhand cotton garments. It aims to reduce waste and the environmental footprint associated with virgin cotton production, including water usage and the impact of pesticides.

Uses: Commonly used in casual wear, home textiles, and as a filler material. It is also gaining popularity in eco-conscious fashion lines for its sustainability profile.

Good to know: The process of recycling cotton involves sorting, cleaning, and re-spinning cotton fibers into new yarns, which can significantly decrease the demand for new cotton and the associated environmental burden. However, the recycling process can sometimes involve mixing with other fibers to ensure strength, and the extent of chemical processing can vary. Recycled cotton supports the circular economy and reduces landfill waste, aligning with eco-friendly and sustainable manufacturing practices.

Tiers come from the Unwrap materials glossary, a guide to what's natural, nature-inspired, or best avoided.

Brands using cotton (53)

See all 53 cotton brands

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