Some shoppers have moments of desiring a piece of clothing to purchase but feel some guilt knowing it was most likely made through an unethical manufacturing process. Many shoppers face this ethical dilemma, but the clothing industry is pivoting towards more ethical manufacturing practices.
Fortunately, times are changing and so is our access to information that helps us make better purchasing decisions. We explore how to shop in ways that are socially responsible, environmentally friendly, and uses ethical manufacturing process.
Choose Clothing Made From Natural Materials
Natural fibers are the opposite of synthetic materials and are considered more sustainable. Cotton, wool, linen, and silk are some of the most popular natural fibers.
They take less energy to produce and decompose naturally and don’t contribute to microfiber pollution. There are resources to find cruelty-free brands on the official website for the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA).
Invest In Fewer, Higher Quality Pieces
The most sustainable way to shop is to buy less but buy better by investing in fewer high-quality pieces that will last you a long time. Try browsing ethically made clothing brands online. When cared for properly these clothes should last for years without showing wear or tear.
Once you have found some really great pieces you love, make sure to keep them in good condition by following best practices for laundering and storing your clothes. It’s important to remember you should be able to keep your high-quality pieces for many years.
These are some things to look out for supporting ethical brands:
- They prioritize sustainability.
- Using sustainable materials.
- Using environmentally friendly production methods.
- Transparent about their manufacturing processes.
- Engaged in environmental activism.
- Practicing social responsibility.
- Certified as sustainable.
Wash Your Clothes Less Often And Don’t Put Them In The Dryer
As the prevalence of consumerism in our society has risen, so has the number of people using their everyday clothing as bedclothes. There are no rules or regulations about what you should wash your clothes with or how often to wash them. If you wear your clothing every day or multiple times per week, then it might be better to look into more advanced laundry techniques.
Avoid Fast Fashion
There are many reasons to avoid fast fashion. Fast fashion relies on cheaply made garments that fall apart or go out of style in a matter of months. By choosing to shop at more ethical stores that are committed to sustainability, you can make an impact on those in need while still maintaining personal style.
Donate What You No Longer Wear
Donating your clothing is one of the most sustainable things you can do. Most people donate their clothes to charity shops which will then sell those goods at an affordable price. The only downside here is making sure everything fits (which isn’t always possible when buying secondhand).
Buy From Eco-Conscious Clothing Brands
Buying clothing sustainably may seem like a daunting task, but once you learn the basics, it becomes easier than you’d think. Not only that, but the process of finding and buying clothes sustainably can be a lot more fun than you’d expect. You can find great quality products at an affordable price while also supporting small businesses and reducing waste in the fashion industry!
