Have you ever thought about the benefits of natural fibres for your health and well-being, as well as for the environment?
Natural fibres and synthetic fibres are two types of materials that are used in the manufacture of clothing, bedding and other textile products. Each type of fibre has its own unique characteristics and advantages, but there are also some important disadvantages to be considered.
Natural and synthetic fibres as seen under the microscope
Natural fibres VS synthetic fibres…
Natural fibres: Natural fibres are those obtained directly from nature, such as wool, cotton, silk and linen. These fibres are biodegradable and have a much lower environmental impact than synthetic fibres. In addition, they are often softer and more comfortable against the skin than synthetic fibres, and offer better temperature regulation and greater durability. Natural fibres are also wrinkle-resistant and retain their shape after several washings.
Synthetic fibres: Synthetic fibres, on the other hand, are those that are produced from chemicals (derived from petroleum) and do not have a natural source. Examples of synthetic fibres include polyester, nylon, acrylic…. These fibres are cheaper and easier to produce than natural fibres, and are also more resistant to stains and wrinkles. However, synthetic fibres can be less soft and comfortable on the skin, and have a significant negative environmental impact due to the production of chemicals used in their manufacture. In addition, synthetic fibres are not biodegradable, which means that they can take a long time to decompose once they are discarded.
In terms of breathability, natural fibres are generally more breathable than synthetic fibres, which means they can help regulate body temperature and moisture. Natural fibres are also more resistant to moisture and do not retain it, which makes them more suitable for bedding and underwear, as they prevent the growth of bacteria.
Health is also in the fibres…
Natural fibre fabrics are better for your health than synthetic fibres for several reasons:
Moisture absorption: Natural fibre fabrics are naturally absorbent, which makes them comfortable and breathable. This helps keep the skin dry and prevents irritation or allergies.
Non-toxic: Many synthetic fibres contain harmful chemicals that can cause skin irritation. Natural fibres, such as cotton, wool or linen, do not contain harmful chemicals and are hypoallergenic.
Biodegradable: Natural fibres are biodegradable, which means they break down and disintegrate in the environment without harming it. Synthetic fibres take much longer to decompose and can damage the environment.
Good for the skin: Soft and gentle natural fibres do not irritate the skin and are ideal for people with sensitive skin. Synthetic fibres can cause skin irritations and allergies.
On the other hand; the use of synthetic textile fibres can have some potential health problems, including:
Skin irritation: Some synthetic materials, such as nylon and polyester, can cause skin irritation and rashes due to their stiffness and lack of breathability.
Allergies: Some people may be allergic to certain synthetic materials, such as polyester and acrylic. These allergies can cause symptoms such as itching, rashes and difficulty breathing.
Chemical contamination: During the production and use of synthetic fibres, toxic chemicals are released into the environment, such as phthalates and polycarbonyl biphenyls (PCBs), which can have negative effects on human health and the environment.
Microplastics: Synthetic fibres can release microplastics into the environment during use and disposal, which can have negative effects on human health and the environment.
Social Responsibility
In terms of cost, synthetic fibres are generally cheaper than natural fibres, which makes them attractive to those looking for affordable and durable garments. However, due to their lack of biodegradability and negative environmental impact, people may be willing to spend more on garments made from natural fibres.
Another important factor to consider is social responsibility. Natural fibres, especially those obtained from sustainable sources, can be more ethical than synthetic fibres, which are often produced in countries with low wages and few environmental regulations. Therefore, choosing natural fibres can be a way to support social and environmental responsibility.
The environment matters too…
Synthetic textile fibres, such as polyester, nylon and acrylic, are a major source of microplastics in the environment. These fibres are resistant to degradation and can be released into the environment through garment washing and wastewater discharge. These microplastics can end up in rivers, lakes and oceans, where they can be ingested by marine animals and enter the food chain.
According to a study by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers(an international organisation with more than 120,000 members in 140 countries), 35 percent of the microplastics released into the world’s oceans come from synthetic textiles.
It is estimated that millions of tons of clothing are discarded worldwide every year, and a large amount of this clothing is made of synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon and acrylic.
Microplastics in suspension in the ocean
In summary, natural fibre fabrics are a healthier and more environmentally friendly option than synthetic fibres; and the health benefits of these natural fibres are: Comfort, Durability and Allergy Protection.
In the case of merino wool; this fibre is considered hypoallergenic and can be beneficial as a soft material for the skin. In addition, merino wool is naturally resistant to bacterial and fungal build-up, which makes it effective in reducing skin problems such as dermatitis or rashes. Merino wool is also naturally breathable and can help regulate body temperature, which can be an important feature in reducing irritation on sensitive skin.
And when choosing a natural fibre; do you know the difference between Bio, Eco, sustainable, certified…?
These terms are often used randomly, but in general they have different connotations:
Bio: refers to organic and pesticide-free products, which are grown without the use of chemicals harmful to the environment and human health.
Ecological: refers to products that do not harm the environment and are produced in a sustainable way, with minimal impact on natural resources and biodiversity.
Organic: are grown or produced following sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. The difference with “Bio” products lies in the specific certification given by each country to these specific parameters.
Natural: that comes from a natural source, such as plants, minerals or animals, but does not have to follow sustainable or chemical-free production processes, and can be further processed and refined.
Sustainable: refers to a form of production and consumption that does not deplete natural resources and does not damage the environment, to ensure long-term economic, social and environmental viability.
Integrated production: Based on the use of production methods that minimise the use of chemicals and maximise the use of environmentally friendly practices, obtaining high quality results.
Certified: refers to products that have been certified by an independent organisation, which verifies that they meet certain environmental, social and quality standards.
At Pirilana we can proudly say that our duvets, pillows and mattress protectors meet these 4 definitions. The OEKO TEX Standard for wool and GOTS for cotton provide full guarantees in this respect.
In summary, the choice between natural and synthetic fibres depends on many factors, including cost, durability, comfort, social and environmental responsibility and personal preference.
However, synthetic textile fibres are a significant source of microplastic pollution and can have a negative impact on the environment and human health. It is therefore important to take measures to reduce their use and encourage the adoption of more sustainable alternatives.
Benefits of natural fibres for your health and wellbeing
Have you ever thought about the benefits of natural fibres for your health and well-being, as well as for the environment?
Natural fibres and synthetic fibres are two types of materials that are used in the manufacture of clothing, bedding and other textile products. Each type of fibre has its own unique characteristics and advantages, but there are also some important disadvantages to be considered.
Natural and synthetic fibres as seen under the microscope
Natural fibres VS synthetic fibres…
In terms of breathability, natural fibres are generally more breathable than synthetic fibres, which means they can help regulate body temperature and moisture. Natural fibres are also more resistant to moisture and do not retain it, which makes them more suitable for bedding and underwear, as they prevent the growth of bacteria.
Health is also in the fibres…
Natural fibre fabrics are better for your health than synthetic fibres for several reasons:
On the other hand; the use of synthetic textile fibres can have some potential health problems, including:
Social Responsibility
In terms of cost, synthetic fibres are generally cheaper than natural fibres, which makes them attractive to those looking for affordable and durable garments. However, due to their lack of biodegradability and negative environmental impact, people may be willing to spend more on garments made from natural fibres.
Another important factor to consider is social responsibility. Natural fibres, especially those obtained from sustainable sources, can be more ethical than synthetic fibres, which are often produced in countries with low wages and few environmental regulations. Therefore, choosing natural fibres can be a way to support social and environmental responsibility.
The environment matters too…
Synthetic textile fibres, such as polyester, nylon and acrylic, are a major source of microplastics in the environment. These fibres are resistant to degradation and can be released into the environment through garment washing and wastewater discharge. These microplastics can end up in rivers, lakes and oceans, where they can be ingested by marine animals and enter the food chain.
According to a study by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (an international organisation with more than 120,000 members in 140 countries), 35 percent of the microplastics released into the world’s oceans come from synthetic textiles.
It is estimated that millions of tons of clothing are discarded worldwide every year, and a large amount of this clothing is made of synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon and acrylic.
Microplastics in suspension in the ocean
In summary, natural fibre fabrics are a healthier and more environmentally friendly option than synthetic fibres; and the health benefits of these natural fibres are: Comfort, Durability and Allergy Protection.
In the case of merino wool; this fibre is considered hypoallergenic and can be beneficial as a soft material for the skin. In addition, merino wool is naturally resistant to bacterial and fungal build-up, which makes it effective in reducing skin problems such as dermatitis or rashes. Merino wool is also naturally breathable and can help regulate body temperature, which can be an important feature in reducing irritation on sensitive skin.
And when choosing a natural fibre; do you know the difference between Bio, Eco, sustainable, certified…?
These terms are often used randomly, but in general they have different connotations:
At Pirilana we can proudly say that our duvets, pillows and mattress protectors meet these 4 definitions. The OEKO TEX Standard for wool and GOTS for cotton provide full guarantees in this respect.
In summary, the choice between natural and synthetic fibres depends on many factors, including cost, durability, comfort, social and environmental responsibility and personal preference.
However, synthetic textile fibres are a significant source of microplastic pollution and can have a negative impact on the environment and human health. It is therefore important to take measures to reduce their use and encourage the adoption of more sustainable alternatives.
Source: Cuerpomente, Wikipedia, EuropaPress,