Eco-Sustainable Synthetic Materials

Bamboo Camis

Clothes made from  bamboo, corn, hemp, and residue from tofu and soybean oil? Textiles made from these products are called  “eco-sustainable synthetic materials.”  Do you have any clothing made from these fabrics in your closet? The answer is most probably no because they have not been widely available. This is the case for a number of reasons such as selection in stores, cost, and styling. Also, the most stylish clothing made from these textiles goes the fastest.

There are changes in the wind now because more retailers are adding clothing made from these new fabrics to their product mix. Also the cost is dropping some and styles are looking to be more “hip.”

Below are the characteristics of some of the new “eco-sustainable synthetic materials”

Bamboo clothing was first developed around 2001. It’s ability to absorb water makes it a natural moisture wicking fabric. Bamboo fabrics are also antibacterial so they stay fresher and more hygienic. Bamboo is also a soft fabric highly breathable. It keeps you cooler the summer and warmer in the winter because of its unique capillary structure plus it is anti static.

Clothing from corn is called ingeo. Ingeo is thin and comfortable, biodegradable and supposedly does not stretch or rip. The fabric is machine washable but don’t iron, it can melt.

Soy textiles are made by using the leftover by-products from soybean oil or tofu production. The result is a soybean protein fibre that some say is as soft as cashmere. This luxury textile offers a silky soft-to-the-touch feel combined with wash ability, durability, and good wear. Soybean protein fiber also has the advantage of being a renewable natural resource. Clothing made from these fabrics will be available soon.

Hemp fabric is made from the stems of the plant. The stems are processed to dissolve the gum or pectin and separate the fibers which are then processed again and woven into yarns and fabric. The finest hemp for fabric is produced in Italy . Hemp fabric is like linen in both hand and appearance. Hemp fabric withstands water better than any other textile product. It wrinkles easily and should not be creased excessively to avoid wear and breakage of the fibers.”