How to reduce microplastic waste from clothes and textiles

Author: Jaana Koivisto, Ecofellows

You may be surprised to learn that many clothes and textiles are made of plastic. Synthetic fibres are one of the biggest sources of microplastics, with sportswear and fleece being the worst materials in this respect. Up to 65% of textiles are made from non-biodegradable synthetic fibres such as polyester and nylon.

When washed, microplastics are released from the garments and enter the waterways through the sewage system. Microplastics are released from all materials, but natural fibres degrade in nature. In contrast, non-biodegradable, oil-based synthetic fibres can persist for a very long time.

Replacing synthetic materials in textiles with natural fibres could significantly reduce the microplastics problem. The use of biodegradable and natural fibre materials in sports and outdoor clothing has recently increased as consumers have become more aware of them. Consumer action is therefore of great importance in preventing the problem of microplastics.

Choose natural fibres

Whenever possible, natural fibres should be chosen for clothes. Natural fibres come from plants or animals. This means that the fibres are not produced chemically but come from nature. Animal fibres are generally made from animal hair, but there are exceptions, such as silk spun from the larval cocoon of the silkworm.

Natural fibres used in textiles include:

• Animal fibres – alpaca, angora, cashmere, sheep’s wool, mohair, leather, silk.
• Vegetable fibres – hemp, coconut, manila hemp, nettle, flax, cotton, sisal.

The choice of material in clothes and textiles always depends on the intended use. There is no single material that is best suited for all purposes. Also, you might want to consider your values. For example, your choice of material may be influenced by ecological or social values, organic quality, or animal rights.

For more information on the different types of textile materials, see the Ecofellows’ Textile Guide (in Finnish).

Pay attention to maintenance

In addition, proper maintenance of clothes keeps them in good condition and reduces the need to buy new ones. A longer wash interval keeps the garment in good condition for longer, resulting in less dissolution of microplastics. Simply refreshing the garment instead of washing it is often sufficient.

Recycle properly

When your clothes reach the end of their useful life, you can recycle them. Properly sorted textiles are used as raw material for new products. You can sort to collection textiles that are no longer usable, but are dry, clean, and odourless.

For hygiene reasons, underwear, tights, socks, and swimwear are not included in the textile collection. Their proper place is with dirty clothes in mixed waste.