Understanding Fabric Labels: Eco Friendly vs Greenwashed Materials

You’ve probably seen labels that say things like “sustainable,” “organic,” “earth friendly,” or “conscious.” They’re printed on price tags, websites, packaging, and even stitched into the seams of your clothes.

But what do these words actually mean?

In a world where eco language is used so freely, it can be hard to know which labels reflect real change and which ones are just a softer shade of business as usual.

This is where fabric knowledge matters. The more you understand what your clothes are made of and how those materials are processed, the easier it becomes to make mindful, informed choices.

Why Fabric Labels Matter

Fabric is the foundation of any garment. And while design and fit are important, what your clothes are made from often has the biggest environmental impact.

The materials used affect:

• How long your clothes last

• How they feel on your skin

• How much water or energy is used in their production

• Whether they can be composted, recycled, or repaired

• How they break down (or don’t) after being discarded

By reading fabric labels more carefully, you start to understand how a piece of clothing fits into the bigger picture — not just your wardrobe, but the planet too.

Common Fabric Terms You’ll See And What They Really Mean

Let’s break down some common words found on clothing labels and marketing materials, so you know what you’re really buying.

1. Organic Cotton

Grown without synthetic pesticides, insecticides, or genetically modified seeds, organic cotton is much better for the soil, farmers, and surrounding ecosystems.

However, not all cotton labelled “organic” is created equal. Look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) that ensure the entire supply chain follows strict environmental and social criteria.

Better choice? Yes.

2. Recycled Polyester or Recycled Nylon

Made from used plastic bottles or old fishing nets, recycled synthetics reduce dependence on virgin fossil fuels and keep plastic waste out of landfills.

But they still shed microplastics during washing and are not biodegradable.

Better choice: In activewear or outerwear where durability matters, but still use a microfibre catch bag when laundering.

3. Viscose, Rayon, Modal, Lyocell, and Tencel

These are semi synthetic fibres made from wood pulp. The environmental impact depends on how the wood is sourced and how the fabric is processed.

Tencel and lyocell (especially when made by Lenzing) use closed loop production systems that reuse water and solvents, making them more sustainable than traditional viscose.

Better choice: Tencel and lyocell, especially when branded by Lenzing or similarly transparent producers.

4. Bamboo Fabric

Bamboo sounds like an eco dream - fast growing, no pesticides, and easy on the land. But bamboo fabric is usually processed using heavy chemicals that harm workers and waterways.

Unless it is specifically labelled as “mechanically processed bamboo” (rare and often more expensive), it’s better to be cautious.

Better choice: Only when it clearly states it was processed without toxic chemicals.

5. Linen and Hemp

These are two of the most sustainable fabrics out there. Both are natural fibres that grow quickly with minimal water and pesticide use.

They are breathable, biodegradable, and tend to get softer with age.

Better choice: Absolutely. These are long lasting, gentle on the skin, and good for the planet.

6. Leather and Vegan Leather

Conventional leather is durable but involves heavy processing, toxic tanning chemicals, and animal agriculture.

Vegan leather sounds appealing but is often made from plastic based materials like PVC or PU, which are not biodegradable.

Some newer options use waste like pineapple leaves, apple skins, or cactus, but these still often contain synthetic binders.

Better choice: Buy less and invest in pieces made from recycled or plant based alternatives with transparent sourcing.

What Is Greenwashing in Fabric Claims

Greenwashing is when a brand makes its products sound more sustainable than they actually are. It often relies on vague terms, recycled imagery, and surface level gestures that aren’t backed by real impact.

Examples of greenwashing:

• Using words like “eco friendly” or “natural” with no explanation or certification

• Highlighting that a product contains organic cotton when it is blended with polyester

• Focusing on recyclable packaging while ignoring the wasteful production methods

• Using earthy branding to give the illusion of sustainability

If a claim feels too broad or too good to be true, it often is. Transparency matters more than buzzwords.

How to Spot Truly Eco Friendly Fabric Labels

When shopping, here are a few things to look for that signal more meaningful sustainability:

1. Certifications

   • GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) for organic cotton

   • OEKO-TEX for chemical safety

   • FSC certification for responsibly sourced wood pulp fabrics

   • Fair Trade or SA8000 for ethical labor practices

   
   

2. Clear Material Breakdown

   • Look for labels that say “100 percent cotton” or “100 percent linen” rather than vague blends like “cotton rich”

   
   

3. Information Beyond the Tag

   • See if the brand provides info about the fabric’s origin, dyeing process, and production methods

   • Transparency is a good sign

   
   

4. Natural Over Synthetic

   • Prioritise fabrics made from plant based or biodegradable sources whenever possible

Final Thoughts

Understanding what your clothes are made from is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to reduce your impact on the planet.

Fabric choices shape everything, from how you feel when you wear something to how long it lasts and what happens when you are done with it.

By learning to read labels with care and asking deeper questions, you move from passive consumer to conscious participant. And that’s what truly sustainable fashion is about - not perfection, but attention.