Wondering which fabrics are actually worth avoiding? While no textile is completely impact-free, some materials are far more problematic than others; for both the environment and, in some cases, our personal health.
Many of today’s clothes are made from petroleum-based synthetic fibers that rely on energy-intensive production, shed plastic microfibers, and are often treated with chemical finishes before they ever reach your closet. Others may contain substances like PFAS, formaldehyde, or stain-resistant coatings that consumers rarely know about.
At Sustainably Chic, we generally recommend choosing natural fibers whenever possible and investing in well-made clothing designed to last. Here are some of the fabrics we try to avoid and why…
The Worst Fabrics for Clothing
1. Polyester
Polyester is one of the most common fabrics used in fashion, and also one of the most problematic. Made from petroleum, polyester is essentially a form of plastic. Every time it’s washed, it releases tiny plastic microfibers that eventually make their way into rivers, lakes, and oceans.
Many polyester garments are also treated with wrinkle-resistant finishes, stain repellents, water-resistant coatings, or antimicrobial treatments that may introduce additional chemicals. While recycled polyester is often marketed as a more sustainable option, it still sheds microplastics and doesn’t solve the long-term pollution problem.
Why we avoid it:
- Made from fossil fuels
- Sheds microplastics
- Difficult to recycle repeatedly
- Often paired with chemical finishes
Better alternatives:
2. Acrylic
Acrylic is another synthetic fiber derived from petroleum and is commonly used as a cheaper substitute for wool. It tends to shed even more microfibers than many other synthetic textiles and is often found in sweaters, scarves, hats, and knitwear. While it can feel soft initially, acrylic garments typically pill quickly and have a shorter lifespan than natural fibers.
Why we avoid it:
- Plastic-based
- Heavy microfiber shedding
- Lower durability
- Difficult to recycle
Better alternatives:
- Wool
- Organic cotton knits
- Alpaca
- Hemp blends
3. Nylon
Nylon is valued for its strength and stretch, which is why it’s widely used in activewear, swimwear, tights, and outerwear. Like polyester, it’s made from fossil fuels and sheds synthetic microfibers throughout its life. Although recycled nylon is becoming more common, it still carries many of the same concerns surrounding plastic pollution.
Why we avoid it:
- Petroleum-based
- Microplastic pollution
- Energy-intensive production
When performance fabrics are necessary, recycled nylon may be a better option than virgin nylon, but we still prioritize natural fibers whenever practical.
4. Conventional Rayon & Viscose
Rayon isn’t plastic, but it’s also not a natural fabric in the way cotton or linen are. It’s made from wood pulp that undergoes significant chemical processing before becoming fabric. Poorly managed production can contribute to pollution and deforestation.
Not all rayon is created equally. More responsibly produced versions, such as TENCEL™ Lyocell, use closed-loop manufacturing systems that recover and reuse much of the processing solvent.
Look instead for:
- TENCEL™ Lyocell
- FSC-certified fibers
- Responsibly produced modal
5. Conventional Bamboo Viscose
Bamboo grows quickly and often requires fewer pesticides than conventional cotton, but turning bamboo into soft fabric usually involves the same chemical-heavy viscose process used for rayon. This means bamboo clothing isn’t automatically the sustainable choice many marketing campaigns suggest.
If you’re considering bamboo, look for bamboo lyocell.
Fabrics That May Contain Chemical Treatments
The fabric itself isn’t always the biggest concern; sometimes it’s the treatments added afterward.
Many conventional garments receive finishes for:
- Wrinkle resistance
- Water repellency
- Stain resistance
- Odor control
- Flame resistance
These treatments may include substances like PFAS, formaldehyde resins, or antimicrobial chemicals. While not every garment contains these chemicals, brands often aren’t required to disclose every finishing treatment they use.
Better Fabrics to Choose Instead
Rather than focusing only on what to avoid, we think it’s more helpful to know what to look for. Click here to read our in-depth guide on sustainable fabrics.
Our favorite natural fibers include:
1. Organic Cotton
Soft, breathable, and grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
2. Linen
One of the most durable natural fibers available, linen requires relatively little water compared to many conventional crops and becomes softer over time.
3. Hemp
Strong, breathable, naturally durable, and one of the lower-impact fibers available today.
4. Responsibly Sourced Wool
Excellent for temperature regulation and long-lasting wardrobes when sourced from responsible producers.
5. TENCEL™ Lyocell
A semi-synthetic fiber made from wood pulp using a more responsible closed-loop manufacturing process.
How to Identify Lower-Tox Clothing
If you’re trying to build a lower-tox wardrobe, look beyond the fabric label.
Helpful certifications include:
- GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)
- OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100
- MADE SAFE®
- FSC® (for wood-based fibers)
These certifications can help verify safer production practices, lower chemical residues, or more responsible sourcing.
Final Thoughts
No fabric is completely impact-free, and building a sustainable wardrobe doesn’t require replacing everything you already own. Instead, focus on making thoughtful purchases going forward. Choosing higher-quality natural fibers, supporting transparent brands, and buying fewer, better-made pieces can significantly reduce both your environmental footprint and your exposure to unnecessary chemical treatments.
Progress (not perfection) is what ultimately creates a more sustainable closet ♡
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the worst fabrics for clothing?
Polyester, acrylic, and nylon are among the most commonly discussed fabrics because they’re petroleum-based, shed microplastics, and can contribute to plastic pollution throughout their lifespan.
What are toxic fabrics?
The fabric itself isn’t always toxic, but some textiles may contain chemical finishes such as PFAS, formaldehyde resins, stain-resistant coatings, or antimicrobial treatments. Looking for certifications like OEKO-TEX® or GOTS can help reduce exposure to certain harmful substances.
Is polyester bad to wear?
Polyester is durable and affordable, but it’s made from plastic and sheds microfibers during washing. Many people also prefer natural fibers because they’re generally more breathable and require fewer synthetic inputs.
Is bamboo fabric better than polyester?
In many cases, yes. However, most bamboo clothing is actually bamboo viscose, which undergoes chemical processing. More responsibly produced options, such as TENCEL™ Lyocell or certified bamboo fabrics, are generally preferable.
What are the healthiest fabrics to wear?
Natural fibers like organic cotton, linen, hemp, and responsibly sourced wool are often favored because they’re breathable, durable, and generally require fewer synthetic additives than many conventional synthetic fabrics.
About the Author
Natalie Kay Costello is the founder of Sustainably Chic and has been writing about sustainable fashion for over a decade. Her work focuses on ethical brands, natural fabrics, and helping consumers navigate greenwashing in the fashion industry.
