Why choose natural and sustainable fabrics for home textiles
And how to distinguish those that are sustainable from those that are not
Let’s try to orient ourselves. Sustainable fabrics for beds and sofas: what it means
When we talk about sustainable fabrics, we are talking about fibers that impact the environment as little as possible, using fewer resources (water and energy) and respecting the working conditions of those who made the final product. The history of the fabric is in fact long: if we think of a banal cotton sheet, we must start from the cotton staple. If, on the other hand, we are talking about synthetic fibers, the matter is even more complex. Regardless of the type of fiber, natural or synthetic, that you decide to choose, also keep in mind how and where thedyeing and finishing . Often, harmful chemicals are used for these operations which, in addition to remaining on clothes, can even be toxic. Natural fibers
Cotton is not a very sustainable fiber, because a lot of water is needed to produce it. In addition, pesticides and herbicides can be used to make it grow. To help us in the choice, certifications come to our aid: GOTS or OEKO-Tex for example reassure you that no chemicals have been used for plant cultivation, but also for the processing and dyeing of the fiber.
Since cotton is a fiber that consumes a lot of water, which fibers can we orient ourselves on
Linen, bamboo, hemp are fibers that therefore the energy and water expenditure is decidedly less. Artificial fibers
Given that it is preferable to opt for fibers of natural origin , especially for furnishing elements on which we spend many hours, (think of sheets), synthetic fibers can also be sustainable. I am thinking in particular of those recycled or remanufactured. In this case we are not introducing new raw material into the environment, but we are cleaning it from already existing plastic materials.
Because I tell you this
Because very often synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon (which can both be recycled: the first from PET, precisely that of plastic bottles, the second even from exhausted fishing nets) can be spun together with those of natural origin such as the cotton. This type of mixed fibers will obviously have greater strength and durability. Sustainable fabrics for beds and sofas: what to choose
Natural fibers such as cotton, hemp or linen for bed or living room textiles immediately give a natural touch to the environment, especially if chosen in neutral colors. Most have no seasonality, in the sense that they are beautiful and practical in both summer and winter. In terms of textile fiber, keep in mind that velvet is also made of cotton. For the winter, it adds a warm touch to the environment, perhaps added to touches, such as to cover a pouf or cushions to be placed on the sofa or armchairs. Sustainable fabrics for beds and sofas: care and attention
When making your choice, always keep in mind the usability of the material you choose: if you have small children or pets, or if you have allergies, you may need to take out the sofas often to wash them. In this case, it will be better to opt for fibers that are resistant and easy to remove. Another important thing: if you wash the sofa covers at home in the washing machine, avoid putting them in the dryer, as they could shrink. The same applies to linen sheets too: the dryer combs the fiber, lifts it and detaches it. In the long run it could ruin it: better hang out in the air.
