which fabric is the WORST for our planet???

[@MBest12]

did u see Aldi announced all of their packaging will be sustainable by 2025!

[@pt9183]

😬but in 6 YEARS TIME.

[@paytonmarkley455]

chanix boss better than no years time

[@stephanierose5394]

@@pt9183 unfortunately it has to take that long for them to be able to develop packaging for things. It takes a while for products a like potato chips to be created and then shipped to the store before the consumer buys it and eats it. If the packaging isn't quite right the potato chips could very easily become stale. So now it's going to take time for them to learn how to create packaging that will keep the food fresh just as long as plastic packaging will. Sadly that will take about six years as well as shifting all of their machinery over to use different materials. But thankfully they will be changing.

[@sarahthatcher123]

I am from Canada so I'm not familiar with the Aldi store though I am assuming it is a grocery store. There is practically no reason it should take 6 years. Worst case scenario 2-3 years. I will leave a link to a video where it shows a grocery store ( granted this one is smaller but it is still a chain so it could have larger stores? And it is in Europe). In the video at approximately 12:50 it states that they went completely plastic free in 10 MONTHS!! If they can do it that quickly then it should not take much longer ( maybe double the time) for a larger chain. The entire video is worth a watch...www.cbc.ca/player/play/1424316483580/

[@nevajohns9929]

Sarah Thatcher Aldi is chain in the US and Europe that only sells its house brand products, but many of their private label items are produced at the same facilities as the national name brand products. It will take them longer because they don’t necessarily own/control the facilities where these products are being made, and will either have to construct their own facilities to produce the products or outsource to other non-plastic facilities which are very rare in the US.

[@katiejon17]

I have to be completely honest, most ‘environmental’ social media folks are either full of it, promoting unrealistic lifestyles, or somewhat uneducated (even if they have good intentions). I have always liked your content. I respect that you are knowledgeable, down to earth, and pragmatic. THANK YOU. Keep up the useful content! You keep me going on my journey to do as much as I can, without going crazy.

[@raydgreenwald7788]

I knew I hated environmental social media for a reason

[@Shorts_528]

@ParadoxicKnox God gave us our planet as a gift, we shouldn't just take everything for granted and use Jesus' second coming as an excuse. Part of being a good Christian is taking care of the environment and doing our part. Also microplastics do harm the environment and our sea life. We all have differing opinions but I at least see trashing the environment as a sin. Not all of us are perfect but we should do what we can.

[@zooh8017]

I love my thrifted leathers and furs and I’m so happy I’ve gotten to extend their lives and give them the care and respect they deserve. It breaks my heart to see people discard leather and fur like it’s not a big responsibility to own a product that an animal died for😭

[@IAmWhoIAm47]

I just did a speech on the sustainability of hemp last week. Such a stigma around a wonderful product!! Screw the US government for condemning something so useful and beautiful. You also didn’t touch on the fact that hemp is one of the largest carbon traps as far as plants go. It’s making the world better just by growing!

[@KellyS_77]

It’s so ironic that a number of states have legalized marijuana use, but hemp production is still not allowed. You can’t get high from hemp, it doesn’t produce enough THC! It’s insanity that growing hemp is illegal.

[@candaceflynn7935]

Okay, so don't quote me because it's been YEARS since I learned this in my history class, but I believe that the reason hemp is illegal in the United States is because a dude with a lot of money and pull in the government had them declare hemp illegal so he could have/keep his monopoly on (perhaps?) cotton. That was at least 100 years ago, maybe even hundreds of years ago, but the law still stands. Once again, my memory about this is very rusty, so feel free to do your own research to get the details.

[@DangerNoodlexoxo]

The government wants to make us and the planet sick so that they can "fix" us.... By taking our money.

[@TheAdventurousHermits]

Have you heard of Zero Waste Daniel? He collects all the scrap fabric in his area and sews it back together to make clothes I love them! Also I saw Ikea make the pledge to switch to sustainable products by 2030.

[@em-wv4qt]

The Vegan Wallflower That's amazing! Ikea is so huge, And it's very popular. So when they change they could have a huge impact in the us. But either way gotta snag my Ikea detolf for ny hamsters cage.

[@lizfebles6411]

You should see a few things about IKEA... they’re not as good as they say

[@rootedinplants]

This is so helpful, I rarely buy new clothes but when I do I’ll be on the lookout for more sustainable options. 💚🌱

[@Shelbizleee]

I don’t buy clothing new either, but I still think it’s important to shop natural fibers due to the micro plastic issue ☺️

[@sanityisrelative]

@@Shelbizleee that's an angle I hadn't known/considered before when shopping second hand. I've made a mindful shift away from polyester years ago simply because I hate how it feels when wearing it (it doesn't breathe and I get very overheated). I never thought to stay clear of blends though, since they are more comfortable to wear. Will definitely keep it in mind on future trips.

[@AlyssaTaylor9]

I love to buy new clothes... but I scratch that itch with stuff that's "new-to-me" now 😁secondhand shopping ftw

[@Sarahlenea]

Thank you for talking about this important issue. Tencel or Lyocell are indeed rather sustainable, but be careful to check it's not the other forms "bamboo textile" (rayon, "bamboo viscose", etc.), which require loads of chemicals for their manufacture. Another Greenwashing material: Modal is made from wood with a process that is pretty close to Lyocell, but is causing deforestation in rainforests. And among very common synthetic materials to avoid, there's also acrylic, nylon/polyamide, elastane. Regarding more sustainable materials, ramie ("nettle of China") is a vegetable fiber very resistant, light and less crumplable than linen :-)

[@tomjones2157]

You're so clued up you should comment more 🤩🤩

[@Agentdreams12]

Tencel is trademarked and makes Lyocell in a sustainable eco-friendly way. Not all lyocell is eco friendly.

[@goldfishsnake]

Yes yes yessss this is so important! When you're shopping second-hand ALWAYS check the fabric content! I will NOT buy anything polyester these days, new or secondhand, because I'd be putting that item back into the wash cycle.

[@gittevandevelde2208]

So basically, ANYONE who is against the oil industry should also be against synthetics.

[@sarahthatcher123]

Gitte Van de velde YES, it was actually last spring when I was against and protesting the expansion of the Transmountain pipeline that Alberta wants to run through BC ( my province). Ruining so much beautiful land and endangering the whales with extremely increased tanker traffic. When I was learning all about the oil industry and the pipeline I would read comments from people who would argue against those like myself who were protesting it by saying..."its hypocritical to be against the oil industry while you drive your car and heat your home". That really hit me because it's true in a way.. Although with the Transmountain Pipeline expansion it is a mute point technically because the expansion is to get oil to foreign markets (we have enough for ourselves). The point was valid in general though and I thought, " I can't afford to buy a new electric car ( or any car) any time soon and I rent so I don't have a choice how my home is heated during winter, there are many things that right now are so far beyond my 'control' ." I had to let go of the things I cannot change but I thought I can change many things in my life. The everyday choices I do make. And so I started my less waste and no plastic journey. I already knew that polyester, acrylic, nylon and all synthetic material is made from oil so I stopped buying any synthetic clothes. Cold turkey. That was 1 year ago. In the fall I watched the documentary 'The True Cost' and since then I have stopped buying anything made of 'conventional' cotton. I buy only organic cotton. (And I have an extremely low income). And now I only purchase natural materials from ethical and fair-trade businesses/ brands. It's been a challenging journey but I love the challenge and I love shopping with a clear conscience and I have so much more peace. Education and awareness is key. That's why I share videos like this on all my social media platforms. It's shocking how most people just don't know.

[@dervla7786]

Anyone who cares about the planet and their own health, synthetics are toxic to the body, it messes up the hormones among other terrible effects. And electrical industry is worse than oil one, might be difficult to believe because of all the brainwashing and electric cars propaganda with their lack of autonomy and lithium batteries. Authorities, governments are hypocrites who pretend to care about ecology and other issues to gain more power, only picking what’s suitable to their agenda

[@alynawatersmusic]

This was good but I wish you linked to places that actually sell hemp, linen, Tencel, etc.

[@sarahthatcher123]

Alyna Waters. You can go to my Pinterest board Colleen Harrison Picasso22 where I have a board called 'Organic Wardrobe' and another called 'Ethical Clothes' as well as under the 'shoes' board there is a subcategory called 'Ethical Shoes' . Also the KZbinr /blogger 'My Green Closet' has a sustainable brand guide on her blog/ website. Lots of her videos share a link too. Or the 'Good on You ' app

[@TheMeganExperience]

I have a dress from Free People that is linen and my favorite tees from j crew are tencel 😊

[@alynawatersmusic]

Thank you, both! I follow MGV and Kristen Leo, but neither are US based like this channel do shipping and returns would be much more difficult.

[@Quest4korea93]

Love this! I found something for the antihaul~ it's buffets! Its insanely wasteful.. So much uneaten food gets trashed and so much unnecessary plastic. I went to one buffet that gave out every customer is bottled water, luckily they gave it to me in a glass when i asked.

[@miss_xenia_]

Morgan Lynn and I always overeat! When usually at a restaurant I just put the leftovers in my container I brought from home and have it the next day ✌️

[@tima2553]

Caroline Xenia P some buffet doesn’t allow that.

[@Quest4korea93]

Yea, i think that buffet doesnt allow it ... I live in Korea where taking food out in general isnt common and often not allowed

[@alyssa_faith]

Morgan Lynn and they make you get a clean plate each time, which I get for sanitary and health reasons, but they must go through so much dish soap!

[@IamAlice]

I'm a teacher and my class and I were researching the most sustainable fabrics during our science week. I was shocked to learn that 2700litres of water is required to produce one cotton tshirt! Although organic cotton is an improvement I'd still be reluctant to purchase it because it still requires the same amount of water and takes just as many nutrients from the soil. Thank you for encouraging us all to be more ethical consumers :) I really enjoy your channel!

[@connieh3348]

As someone who loves sewing thrifting and vintage fashion. I could watch videos about fabric and how sustainable they are all day. Thank you!

[@keg10609]

I hate polyester its uncomfortable and makes me feel hot especially here in Houston. Like no thank you

[@KristenLeo]

Thank you for this video! 🙌🏼 The fact that people and brands are trying to promote leather as an ethical and sustainable material blows my mind 😵

[@miss_xenia_]

Kristen Leo so many zero wasters are big on leather 🙈 I only use the one I have or second hand now ✌️💚 🐮

[@naturegirl321]

This channel promoted it too.

[@HosCreates]

Leather can decompose unlike pleather. But I agree the chemicals used to dye the leather and the factory farming of cows is not sustainable!

[@tomjones2157]

​@@HosCreates I don't buy factory farmed meat. I buy organic free range meat so its sustainable.

[@HosCreates]

@@tomjones2157 I agree that pastured raised meat and eggs along with crop rotation is healthy but let's be real honest.. how many cow slaughtered for meat and hides are actually raised the pastorial way?

[@blasterbug]

Hoodlamb makes clothing from hemp. They are big supporter of Sea Shepherd and they are vegan certified. ✌🏻

[@adrianinhha]

thanks! appreciate it

[@NinaNina07]

I often see items made from 'Acrylic' which for those who don't know is also plastic so it comes under the Polyester umbrella 😊

[@dispirited_official]

I love this video! I'm starting with zero waste since the beginning of this year and this video has given me so much information and help. Especially because I have never thought that the common clothing materials would be so bad for the environment

[@butterbee2163]

What do you think about second hand polyester/synthetic clothes? They are still bad for the environment, because of the micro plastic when washing. But is it better if they would be tossed (or if possible recycled) or worn, because they already have been produced?

[@alyssa_faith]

Butterbee if it’s already been produced all you can do is get t second hand and wear it out.

[@brooklynnisnotacity]

Joëlle Weetjewel - Shelbi actually has another video where she talks about 2 different ways to reduce the amount of plastics that go into your water. If you own your home, you can install a sort of filter to your washer that prevents plastic from getting drained with all your water. Or, if you rent or are unable to install something like that, there are small little gadgets that you toss into your wash that catch all of the micro plastics from your clothing. To me it looked like a sort of wet reusable dryer ball? It helps to eliminate a lot of the micro plastics though! I can try to find the video if you want that discusses these two options! But imo, I feel like if you’re buying second hand polyesters or synthetic blends that might wash off micro plastics, then you can invest in these two options. I agree with another commenter though-if it’s already been produced, the only thing you can really do is use it until it reaches the end of its life cycle in order to prevent it from being tossed into a landfill.

[@dervla7786]

It sheds microplastic all the time while you wear it and create friction, plus each time you wash it. But apart from that it’s terrible for your health absorbing through the skin, it messes up your hormones and immune system. Best to only get 100% natural and preferably organic fabrics

[@TermiteVideo]

Old cotton shirts, T-shirt’s, underwear are cut up in our house and used for rags or composted in our garden compost bins if they are not for passing on.

[@alifewithluna4134]

Great video! My mind is blown by how anti-hemp the US is. I would definitely spend a lot more money on supporting the production of hemp and linen ( my 2 favorite fabrics) if it were more readily available; but it’s not. My goal is to eventually have a wardrobe composed of 100% natural and sustainable materials 🤞

[@AnxiousGary]

I've noticed a lot of tags straight-up lie about what the clothes are made of. I have a jacket with polyester lining that says it's 100% cotton. I've seen lots of garments that claim to be 100% natural and still use polyester thread. Just something to keep in mind for people who are able to spot these things.

[@leporid257]

maybe the rest of it is cotton? i always see "coat x% cotton y% polyester, lining x%..."

[@zakosist]

How are you supposed to know if you aren't an expert on clothing to begin with? Is it an easy way to recognize when clothes have polyester? Or synthetic fibers? I live in Norway so I assume chances of scamming is actually lower where I live because of mostly good regulation (at least my impression), but it can happen

[@tammyd.970]

wow. Colour me impressed. You've made a really well researched yet easily digestible video on fabrics. Keep up the great work!

[@mariecarr9182]

Thank you for this video! I have been making sure that I don't buy polyester anymore, but it's nice to have a video about good fabric alternatives!

[@genevievebeaulieu5030]

I just bought some burlap Toms, so upon watching your video I did something I had never done before- went to gather some info on the production of the fabric I just bought. Turns out burlap, or jute, is second only to cotton in terms of the amount produced but requires very little pesticides in comparison. Not bad! Thank you for this insight ♡

[@tomjones2157]

Jute wears out quickly and is hella scratchy

[@KkayC12]

I am so glad I came across this video. I have been shopping only second hand for a few years now, and I recently found out that microfibers from polyester and other synthetic fabrics get into our water supply. Now I feel even more limited to buying clothes. This was very informative, and I will definitely check out companies that sell hemp, linen and tencel clothing.

[@karolinakuc4783]

Bonprix sells tencel with Leipzig certificate

[@irenatheginger2491]

Very enlightening, thanks for doing this video! My son's great grandmother wanted to get me some new clothes for Easter this year, she wasn't too thrilled about buying me something second hand. Mind you, I've been purchasing 90% of our clothing for both myself and son second-hand for over 6 years at this point. I didn't have any luck at the second-hand stores that I typically go to, but did at another store that will purchase loads of items to prevent them from going into landfills. For me, it does feel weird to get something that's more "new", but I did make sure that I would at least get way more use out of it and was indeed some thing that I love, so that I do feel good about!

[@RosieriverfulGomes31]

I'm starting my sustainable life style and I'm filming it on my channel, right now I'm doing declutter videos to help me get into living with less. Your videos inspired me so much that I looked around my house or ordered items for my zero waste kit in my backpack and I'm using them daily now. I would love if you or your followers would check out my channel, this journey has been amazing so far and I've gotten compliments when using my items in public saying thank you for helping our earth. Right now I'm using my reusable pads for the first time and so far I'm loving them!

[@jenniferkohler5396]

Reusables are the BOMB!! I love mine and wish I had made the change years ago!!! Checking out your channel :)

[@31Wolflover]

shelbi, you always have the best delivery! this has to be one of your best + most informative videos yet!! this resonates w/ everyone bc we all wear clothes! something that may seem small like buying one fabric or another can have a big impact. thank u so much for breaking down each of these materials, i feel much more informed now for when i go looking for secondhand clothes!! :) keep making amazing content!!!

[@witch_kam]

Thank you for this video. Very interesting content. The last fibres you talked about is lyocell. TENCEL is actually a brand name.

[@carolynhance5588]

One more thing about Tencel, it's also anti-bacterial. I bought some jeans with it from Armed Angels(an eco-friendly brand in Germany), and the claim is true. I usually have to wash my jeans after 1-2 wears, but I just got three wears out them on a recent trip, including wearing them during over 25hrs of travel time, so just for normal days I could probably get 4 wears.

[@Applee10101]

I just discovered your channel and as someone who knows nothing about zero waste, other than carrying around her cute jeffree star straws, you've made me really open my eyes and reconsider my whole life. I mean my entire closet is made up of fashion nova essentially. things have to change

[@CrystalRicotta]

Only 2% - oh em gee - I’m on board with slow fashion and sustainable ethical fabrics. Say NO to low vibration fabrics like polyester! Questions about sustainable leather. Love flax / linen and hemp 🖤 Great information TY

[@BuddyOldDudeAlot]

I just want to say thank you. I've recently found your channel and have been watching a lot of your videos and I just appreciate you educating more people. This is what KZbin should be about. Thank you x

[@c.a.8067]

I love watching your videos! They just make me more aware and conscious of my decisions.

[@naomimay82]

This video is just what I needed!!! I have been wondering about sustainable fabrics. I have been buying 100% organic cotton from PACT lately. I bought my son a bunch of new shirts from there (and a sweatshirt) because he outgrew boy clothing and needed to size up to men’s clothing.

[@MsChucklebunny]

This video is so so informative!! I would have loved to learn more about other conventionally seen fabrics like rayon and silk.

[@sanityisrelative]

A part two seems needed. (Rayon, silk, bamboo, vegan leather...)

[@gealachinion]

Awesome video! Thank you for raising awareness :) I love sewing (especially clothing) and have found it much more economical and sustainable for my wardrobe. I would love a video about dyes and stains at some point. Also that jacket looks amazing!

[@19lionmonkey92]

You almost made me cry when you got to cotton but I understand what you are saying or rather some what aware on what to look for. Thank you.

[@tarafrancis8160]

You should do a part two and let use know about things like bamboo.

[@sarahthatcher123]

A video about all of the different clothing certifications and what they mean would be great. ( ie. GOTS , Otek etc.)

[@chloemcguire4540]

I appreciate that you include your knowledge of science into your videos and communicate it so clearly and effectively ❤️

[@creativesea.design]

What I think is most important is to use materials that last the longest and to avoid throwing clothes and shoes away. I am, however, a bit confused about the shoes - what materials can we use? Leather is not ok, "fake leather" is plastic and is not very durable, so it ends up in a landfill pretty fast, so what should we wear to be more sustainable?

[@koirasikin]

Even if animals are suffering i personally see it as less bad than oil production + shoes that will wear off soon. So i personally go for leather shoes.

[@Shelbizleee]

I still purchase leather shoes, I just do it second hand. It is a complicated topic because most vegan leathers are not durable, I completely agree

[@creativesea.design]

@@Shelbizleee Thank you for the quick answer! I will look into this too. I was thinking about this because I received a fake leather backpack from my best friend about a year ago and even though I have more bags, didn't just use that one, it's already starting to tear in places. I am planning to cover the tears with colourful pieces of fabric and thread, so I can use it as long as I can, but I am really thinking about the best version for when i need to buy bags or backpacks.

[@hannahsenders6462]

I almost always buy clothes second hand, but usually check the tag to see what it’s made from. I steer away from anything that isn’t 100% cotton. I have never seen anything made from hemp, tensel, or (surprisingly) linen at our thrift stores. At least not in the clothes sizes we shop for. It’s pretty time consuming with a family of 5, but totally worth it.

[@docb8316]

I was thinking you might so something with homemade hand sanitizer and surface wipes. I cut up an old tee put it in an empty peanut butter jar and added 70% alcohol. I keep that in my car to wipe down what I touched before I use hand sanitizer. These wipes can be washed after use rather than being thrown away.

[@roxanaalecu3741]

poliester,polyamid,nylon,elastan! I always knew that they were the worst!

[@Kittyheavenwith21cats]

When the clothes are too worn out to be donated or used for anything. Where can we send them for recycling?

[@Lea-dx4nf]

not all leathers are tanned with harsh chemicals though

[@Victoria-yr1vo]

I feel called tf out - for things I didn't know I was doing wrong. Appreciate this newfound knowledge!

[@TiredJaded]

Great video, I definitely want to get more sustainable fabrics when I buy new clothes... which is so so rare. I would be interested to know where you got your information on Hemp crops. My understanding of gardening and plants is that all plants take nutrients out of the soil (it's how they grow) and put nutrients back into the soil. Some plants need different nutrients than others and put back different nutrients which is why crop rotation is a good idea (one crop uses nutrient A and puts back nutrient B, so you plant a different crop that uses nutrient B and puts back nutrient A). Crop rotation also helps prevent certain insects or diseases from building up since some plants are more prone or resistant to certain insects/diseases than others. Hemp crops will still take nutrients out of the soil and farmers should still rotate crops.

[@theblairmairproject]

Love your videos! Thanks for making these topics so approachable and easy to digest. You're awesome!

[@laketrout8615]

Thanks for teaching me about so many different sustainability topics! I love sharing your videos with my coworkers and using them to start a discussion about sustainable living. Thank you.

[@marydaugherty2623]

I love how you organized the video to talk about production, life, and where it goes. I’d love to see a similar video about shoes!

[@lorethehobbit]

how do you know when tencel/lyocell has been sourced sustainably and isn’t derived from ancient growth forests? I shop second hand anyway but how can you know for sure that the wood has been been sourced sustainably?

[@tomjones2157]

You can't.

[@EmmaAppleBerry]

If youre getting it second hand youre not contributing to the demand so it doesnt really matter if it is or isnt the damage is already done by whoever purchased it first.

[@nicbickel4031]

Look for products that are "FSC certified". The Forest Stewardship Council ensures all products they certify are sustainably harvested. Clothing, furniture, even paper towels and toilet paper (Scott toilet paper) can be sourced sustainably. Source - My company sells FSC certified products and I'm the one that is audited each year to ensure we follow the protocol and rules.

[@sonipitts]

@@nicbickel4031 Is it possible to determine if a given paper that is FSC certified comes from American forests? I know that on a lot of non-domestically sourced wood, FSC labels are super sketchy to downright bullshit due to near-completely corrupted chains of provenance (officials paid off at every level, as well as the wood sources nearly impossible to verify due to difficulty in getting to the claimed and actually-cut forests, hostile government interference and unwelcoming local populations). OTOH, it's a lot easier to verify American-grown, and it keeps the demand for wood products high, thus ensuring ongoing forest investment rather than having it all cut down and turned into strip malls, housing developments, agriculture or mining for lack of 'economic value.'

[@ElizabethJones-pv3sj]

You could always buy bamboo, it's more often than not rayon (or one of its subtypes, e.g. tencel, viscose etc.) with the celulose derived from bamboo instead of trees.

[@laurenmay4762]

I found a 100% TENCEL shirt made in the United States that goes with almost all of my bottoms - it's a creamy and soft button-down that I could wear almost anywhere! I feel so lucky to have such a great consignment shop near me!

[@x3oneofakind]

Sadly even organic fibers are usually dyed with the same dye as non organic ones. (Another reason to buy second hand) I read that linen would get softer and the colour better with every wash. I bought a (second hand) linen dress lately and I feel like it got a little darker through washing it, so it might be true.

[@victoriacheramie946]

Well i feel incredibly smarter now!! I have a lot of growing and knowledge going on lately so I am trying not to get overwhelmed but I hope this stays in my head everytime I shop for new clothes!!

[@crystalcroft2041]

Thank you for doing this! Learned several new things! When you know better you do better!

[@evelynm.8967]

I needed this video, love it! I am pretty upset though that hemp is not being used very much. Hemp is the future! Thanks for clearing up Tencel for me, I didn’t know exactly what it was or if it was biodegradable or not.

[@rachk4556]

anti haul experience here 🙄 went to an earth day festival and one of the vendors was selling soaps/bath stuff. she had LIGHT UP BATH BOMBS?! how wasteful. some of the soaps also had glitter on top. and when i looked at the ingredients the third one was palm oil 😭 so sad i found this at an earth day festival of all places

[@audreysavard3248]

Earth festivals, eco festivals, healt aand beauty festivals are full of "good intentionned" people who take their informations from urban legends or intuitive reflexions. It result a lot of misinformations and diabolisations. I can't go to those since my univeristy program (agriculture and environmental studies) because they are not open to ear they are wrongs.

[@chiara2093]

This is such an important video 👏🏼 when I can’t buy second hand I always try to research cool brands that use materials like tencel or econyl to make their clothes

[@life_outside_the_lines]

I’ve seen a lot of videos about this campaign lately- but this was the most informative and educational one I’ve seen so far! Always killing it ❤️♻️

[@HomemakerDaze]

Thank you I've been needing more motivation to be more careful with my purchases. I buy lots secondhand but still should avoid it even then.

[@animelover1705]

also fun thing with hemp is that not only does it grow super fast (like only 4 months) but it also ''breaths'' in 4x the co2 then threes. Hemp is also super versitile with over a 10,000 different uses, all from fabric, string, medical like tintures, also hemp can be used as a building meterial like wood (way better then wood as well, since it grow in 4 months compared to around 20 years, also it uses less resourses to produce and less space) just to mention a few ^^

[@imathumb]

i just bought Tencel by accident today and i'm SO HAPPY!! (it said on the label that it was a 100% natural product, but i'd never heard of it) that was so lucky! 😄

[@journeytomycenter6301]

What about silk? And Velvet?

[@Bruhhfsfs]

You could have made a table with all this info and show it at the end so we can see how all fabrics compare. I would have liked to see that, trademark it as your useful guide if you want even.

[@Shelbizleee]

I'll get on that and update the description when I'm done!

[@whoknows719]

Shoot, wish I saw this before buying leather Doc Matens. Thanks for all the videos and education, there's so much to consider when trying to be sustainable, and this is something I didn't even consider, but makes so much sense.

[@LaurenVHamill]

Most of my clothing is made of polyester 😛 But I have goals to stop buying new polyester. ... I may or may not still buy it from thrift stores... One step at a time!

[@bingaling5]

Interesting about tencel, I had no idea that was such a good fabric, I know lululemon is not a sustainable brand but sometimes, mostly durin summmer or spring, they have quite a few Tencel fabric items

[@dianaramos1846]

So crazy u just uploaded this, I’ve been looking into fabric for a diy project but wasn’t sure which fabric is the most eco friendly. Thanks for the video!

[@KenzoArts]

I have to thank you a lot for enlightening us. From now on i would never buy clothes made from polyester. I have one question Is Nylon a sustainable fiber ?

[@katiekattt]

This was sooo interesting, I really had no idea! I’m definitely going to be thinking way more before I purchase any more clothing.

[@goddess131]

dang it, my scrubs for work are a poly cotton blend, I haven't seen them in other materials, I'll look.

[@pandisionesamartinez2958]

Have you found any?

[@goddess131]

@@pandisionesamartinez2958 unfortunately I have not found any that don't have a blend of some percent of polyester in them, if I could get some that have rayon, tencel and cotton mix that would be better.

[@pandisionesamartinez2958]

@@goddess131 if I ever find some too I'll let you know as I will soon be working in healthcare

[@ninacasali8612]

What about the eyes used in the fabric. Composting something that has synthetic dyed can't be good.

[@Nejem]

i was scared there for a moment, eyes used in fabric :D

[@sanityisrelative]

@@Nejem where do you think they get blue dyes from?

[@EmmaAppleBerry]

Dyes were naturally derived originally from plants flowers etc now most if not all are completely replaced with man made stuff. I guess you gotta ask yourself if its worth buying unbleached fibres and making youre own or finding somewhere that does that for you close by or if its better to just buy man made dyed things since thats not using plants etc its really hard to everything or even anything perfectly as long as youre trying to be better in the ways that you can slowly but surely then thats way better than just mindlessly consuming. If you look at natural dyes for like easter eggs onions beetroot tea etc theres heaps. You could always use them if you wanted to dye something yourself but its very hard to find raw material and even then you dont know if its done sustainably etc etc. So just do the best that you can with what you have.

[@Jooney91]

Very nice video. However when it comes to shoes, bags, coats and jackets, it is hard to avoid unsustainable materials. I at least choose quality over quantity, so I actually prefer leather shoes - they last for many years if you care about them properly. Anyway my top material is viscose (especially bamboo viscose) - it is durable, keeps colors and shape for years, but easy to find in stores/eshops and for good price.

[@Msmarvelous2810]

Tencel bedding is amazing! So soft. I would highly recommend.

[@ecomexillennial2244]

I won't buy any polyester, leather, or conventional cotton clothes anymore. Thanks for the information!!!

[@sarahthatcher123]

EsperanzaMX yea! See my comment about my Pinterest board where I have lots of pins from good companies/brands to shop from.

[@tomjones2157]

What about nylon, polyamide, acrylic jerseys and all the other names for fabrics hiding the fact they are made from crude oil and toxic chemicals? Can you give up your yoga pants, acrylic jumpers, and snuggly polar fleece jackets? I see people claiming they are avoid polyester but then they go on hauling and wearing LuluLemon, acrylic jerseys ect I'm not sure what to buy as replacements for yoga pants and sports tights myself. Do you have any ideas?

[@sanityisrelative]

@@tomjones2157 here's some ideas: goodonyou.eco/ultimate-guide-ethical-activewear-2018/

[@rachellysak8228]

Hi shelby, loved the video. would you please provide source material? Im especially interested in the comments about how hemp/cannabis returns nutrients to the soil.

[@asparklingartist]

so I'm a tailor/seamstress (or whatever you want to call it) and a designer and it was a long education for me to take, but my teachers were not as thorough as you in informing us about the fabrics and materials we use and what they do to the environment, they just said that cotton was the best "hippie-fabric" way to sew clothes ...and yeah, it was back in 2014 but still, after this video, I have to sort through my fabric piles and change the way I now sew my clothes.. :)

[@another99percenter72]

Thank you so much for this video. I have been looking for all this information in an easily digestible form, and here I am. The information about the amount per crop is so interesting and unknown.

[@sweetriver9063]

Thank you so much for making this. You did a great job on editing and providing a full range of info !:)

[@cassieoz1702]

I hate shopping for clothes SO much that they have to last a long time. My work clothes are usually synthetic blends because they wear longer and work better in winter cold

[@angelatinker8588]

Great video! I'm wondering what your take is on Bamboo fibers. I'm seeing a lot of bamboo diaper adds lately and bamboo bed sheet alternatives. Are they really sustainable alternatives?

[@sarahthatcher123]

Angela Tinker From the research I have done it is not the best in terms of sustainability. It wouldn't be a first choice. Hemp, linen, tencel, organic cotton all would come first. It is sustainable in that it's a grass that grows easily without a huge drain on resources to grow, however the lack of sustainability comes from the amount of chemicals and processing it takes to turn the bamboo fibre into material. So much better than anything 'fast fashion' though.

[@tomjones2157]

NO. Bamboo requires more water and toxic chemicals to process than other fibres. Alot of people get allergic reactions to bamboo sheets and clothing because of the toxic residues. Its a weak fibre so it goes into holes more quickly so it has a short useful lifecycle.

[@olenagirich1884]

I know BoodyWear has their entire company based on this fabric.

[@katiejon17]

Really?! I thought I’d read that bamboo is super sustainable?! I’ll have to educate myself more on this!

[@missvintagedoll9008]

I use bamboo diapers it's my favorite type. It holds alot.

[@alyssa_faith]

I really appreciate you talking about Linen. I follow a page (@wildbird) who make ring slings for babies and they have linen and modal material, and they show the whole process. From their flax farms, to softening the fabric (without chemicals!) the slings run about $80 but I would feel good supporting them and also putting a baby, who has very sensitive and delicate skin, in the sling. Also they’re just great people. Y’all should go follow @WildBird on Instagram!!!

[@Becsartisticvoid]

Yessss I've been waiting for this video! I'm an apparel merchandising and sustainable design major and can confirm this information. I learned in textiles class all the benefits of these fibers but also had a chapter on the bad side.

[@sophia111188]

Thank you for this video! I'm starting my small handmade clothes & accessory brand and looking for more sustainable options.

[@LS-qv1ei]

I also thought Tencel was some bad made made plastic thing...just because of the trademark beside it, I don’t remember what I bought that has it, but I thought “what the hell is Tencil?” Followed by “sounds like spandex or something, it’s probably plastic”

[@theperipateticaccrescent7685]

What about dyeing? Can you make an informative video about Dyes, undyed clothing etc...

[@pooksmagoo6521]

Thanks again for another great video!! I love to sew and have been buying cotton because I thought it would be the best 🥴. I will for sure look for hemp and tinsel fabrics 😁😁

[@vickisigh2674]

this is such a great video shelbi! thanks so much for doing all this research, i'll definitely keep my eye out and choose clothing that uses those sustainable materials! :D

[@auroraborealis5326]

What are your thoughts on clothing made of recycled plastic bottles? There seems to be a lot of swimwear and yoga/activewear made of this.

[@tomjones2157]

I've been wondering too. My nike yoga pants were made out of bottles but I'm wondering if its actually good or not in the long run...

[@embroideredsoul]

thank you... excellent information... this will help me lots in my new business considerations... but also in everyday life... i love natural textiles & i have moved away from wearing anything synthetic over the past 2 decades

[@sarahbunny9283]

Something I’ve been wrestling with is, how do I vote with my dollars and support natural fibers by buying from more conventional department stores that carry them when I don’t support the production processes of where the items are manufactured? How do I support product sustainability on a budget without supporting sweat shops?

[@rosemarybruce6290]

Sarah Bunny i try and save for higher quality items. i’m on a budget but i save by not buying cheaper things often, instead buying more pricey but better quality things, much mich much less often.

[@sarahbunny9283]

I totally get that and it’s probably what I’ll do when I’m not buying secondhand. But for example, I work at a retail store that recently got in a tencel dress. I was so excited to see this thing I had been learning about show up in a every day person kind of department store. I thought about buying it to show that there is a demand for this type of material, but for one I know how that product got to my store (how it was packaged and transported) and for two, though I haven’t actually looked into that specific brand, I have no doubt that it is made unethically based on other things I do know. So it’s kind of a double edge sword, you know? How do we move the market for the everyday consumer if we are not supporting said market as a whole? I know for me personally what is right and ethical and good for the environment, but no matter how many conversations I have with friends and family, it just hasn’t clicked for them yet and they are going to buy what’s in front of them. We need to change what’s in front of them.

[@sherrymaki25]

You look sooo happy in your Tencel coat! I'd love to try it myself :)

[@adrianahernandez6533]

Girl! I just want to say I needed some socks and saw some at a good deal at tjmaxx BUT I saw that they were made from polyester and I declined them

[@karolinakuc4783]

Good you'd buy trash that doesn't breath. You could as well put plastic bags on them

[@alicja3764]

Me and my partner finally bought a duvet fromn 100 percent Tencel, made to order in Austria. It was really hard to find one that wasnt "microfibre" aka Polyester!

[@maddieroxx4eva]

Its too bad that leather production became so industrial. Traditional Indigenous methods of treating leather were much more sustainable.

[@karoshi6374]

Do you have any ideas on how to dispose of and or possibly re-purposing polyester/ other fabrics? I know you said there was a way for recycling but are the other options? I already don't buy a lot of these material but I'd like to know other possibilities besides just donating, etc.

[@gretchenpembrook2849]

New subscriber after learning about all natural ingredients and HI HELLO I LOVE YOU ALREADY!! This is fabulous.