Looking for eco-friendly fabrics for your print-on-demand business? Here’s a quick breakdown of the top materials that combine reduced waste, customer appeal, and great print quality:
- Organic Cotton: Soft, versatile, and grown without harmful chemicals. Uses 91% less water and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 46%. Ideal for T-shirts, baby clothes, and tote bags.
- Recycled Polyester (rPET): Made from plastic bottles, it cuts carbon emissions by 70% and uses 30–50% less energy than virgin polyester. Perfect for activewear and corporate merchandise.
- Recycled Cotton: Converts old textiles into new fabric, saving water and energy. Works well for casual wear like T-shirts and hoodies.
- Hemp: Durable, breathable, and requires minimal water. Great for workwear, outerwear, and tote bags.
- Bamboo Viscose: Soft and silky with antibacterial properties. Best for loungewear, activewear, and summer apparel.
- TENCEL™ Lyocell: Made from wood pulp in a closed-loop process, it’s strong, moisture-wicking, and biodegradable. Suited for premium tees and sportswear.
- Linen: Made from flax, it uses 40% less water than cotton and gets softer with time. Ideal for summer clothing and home textiles.
These fabrics offer a mix of durability, print quality, and reduced environmental impact, catering to the growing demand for eco-conscious products.
Quick Comparison:
Fabric
Water Use
Durability
Print Quality
Best For
Organic Cotton
Low
High
Excellent
T-shirts, baby clothes
Recycled Polyester
Low
Very High
Excellent
Activewear, jackets
Recycled Cotton
Low
Moderate-High
Good
Casual wear, hoodies
Hemp
Very Low
Very High
Good
Workwear, tote bags
Bamboo Viscose
Moderate
Moderate
Excellent
Loungewear, activewear
TENCEL™ Lyocell
Very Low
High
Excellent
Premium tees, sportswear
Linen
Very Low
Excellent
Good
Summer clothing, home items
Organic cotton is cultivated without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This natural fiber delivers the softness and versatility that consumers love while offering a more environmentally conscious alternative to conventional cotton.
Compared to traditional cotton, organic cotton is a game-changer for the environment. It uses up to 91% less water, reduces water pollution by 98%, and cuts greenhouse gas emissions by 46%. These impressive savings are achieved through rain-fed irrigation and natural soil management practices, eliminating the need for synthetic fertilizers that release harmful nitrous oxide.
“Organic cotton is one of the most important choices people can make for the environment, because it supports a healthy ecosystem and prevents the use of toxic synthetic chemicals.” – The Organic Center
Organic farming methods also focus on maintaining soil health and managing pests naturally, ensuring a more sustainable approach to agriculture.
Organic cotton is typically hand-harvested, which minimizes fiber damage during collection. This gentle process preserves the fabric’s natural integrity, although it might lack some of the added strength found in heavily processed conventional cotton.
Thanks to its soft and smooth texture, organic cotton performs exceptionally well with both screen and digital printing. Its high-quality fibers ensure consistent results, making it a reliable choice for large-scale print-on-demand operations.
The organic cotton market is booming. It’s projected to grow from $1,585.5 million in 2024 to an impressive $25,890.2 million by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 40.0%. This surge is driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products.
Organic cotton is a popular choice for T-shirts, prized for their comfort, excellent printability, and environmentally friendly appeal. It’s also a go-to material for baby clothes and onesies, where its softness and skin-friendly nature make it ideal for sensitive skin. Tote bags made from organic cotton are another favorite, offering reusable and practical options for eco-conscious shoppers. For outerwear, hoodies crafted from organic cotton provide a sustainable and comfortable alternative that resonates with environmentally aware customers.
For print-on-demand businesses, organic cotton is more than just a fabric - it’s an opportunity. It allows companies to meet quality expectations while tapping into the growing market for sustainable fashion. This eco-conscious choice aligns with consumer values and positions businesses at the forefront of a greener future.
Recycled polyester, or rPET, gives a second life to plastic waste by converting used plastic bottles into high-quality fabric. This process involves melting down the bottles and re-spinning them into polyester fiber, effectively turning trash into a versatile material for sustainable fashion. It’s a smart way to tackle the growing problem of plastic waste in landfills and oceans.
Producing rPET is much more energy-efficient than creating virgin polyester, using 30–50% less energy - or even up to 59% in some cases. It also slashes carbon emissions by around 70% and reduces water pollution by 60%.
To put it into perspective, every yard of rPET fabric keeps 15–20 plastic bottles out of landfills. On a larger scale, one ton of rPET prevents over 6,000 bottles from becoming waste and avoids more than three tons of carbon dioxide emissions. These numbers highlight rPET’s potential to make a meaningful environmental difference.
When it comes to strength and performance, rPET holds its own against virgin polyester. It’s weather-resistant and maintains its shape and color better over time compared to natural fibers like organic cotton. While repeated recycling may slightly weaken the fibers, blending in a small amount of virgin polyester can address this. Even so, rPET offers excellent moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties, though it’s less breathable than cotton.
rPET’s durability extends to its printability, performing nearly as well as virgin polyester for printing purposes. However, the mechanical recycling process can sometimes cause minor color inconsistencies in the base fabric, which may affect dye absorption and require extra processing for uniform coloring. Still, its scalability is impressive - just five recycled bottles can produce enough fiber for a t-shirt.
Leading brands have already embraced rPET as a sustainable alternative. Patagonia has been incorporating rPET into its outdoor apparel since 1993, and Adidas has committed to using only recycled polyester in its products by 2024. H&M Group is also pushing the boundaries of sustainability, working with Syre to develop advanced textile-to-textile recycled polyester.
For print-on-demand businesses, rPET is a great fit for activewear and athletic clothing, thanks to its durability and moisture management. It’s also a popular choice for promotional items and corporate merchandise, as more companies prioritize eco-friendly options. Products like lightweight jackets, bags, and accessories benefit from rPET’s weather resistance and strength. Plus, its lighter weight and often lower cost compared to virgin polyester make it a smart choice for businesses balancing sustainability with profitability.
Recycled cotton breathes new life into old garments and fabric scraps, turning what could have been waste into valuable material. With the staggering amount of textile waste we generate, this approach offers a meaningful way to address the issue.
The process involves mechanically breaking down used cotton materials. While this shortens the fibers, it transforms discarded textiles into a resource that avoids ending up in landfills. This method has gained traction, especially among print-on-demand businesses, as more consumers seek eco-conscious products - a trend that’s been growing in the U.S. since 2022.
Recycled cotton plays a key role in creating a more circular textile industry by reusing fibers instead of discarding them. Compared to virgin cotton, it consumes significantly less water and energy. For instance, a 2023 report highlighted that 30% of garments produced globally never make it to consumers, and traditional cutting methods waste up to 15% of fabric. By combining recycled cotton with on-demand production, businesses can drastically reduce waste.
U.S. retail trends underscore the growing appeal of recycled cotton. In 2022 and 2023, about 100 Stock Keeping Units (SKUs) of “Made in the USA” clothing featured recycled cotton. This figure doubled to nearly 200 SKUs in just the first nine months of 2024. This shift aligns perfectly with the waste-reducing goals of print-on-demand businesses.
While recycled cotton offers clear environmental benefits, it’s generally less durable than virgin cotton due to the shortened fibers from the recycling process. To address this, manufacturers often blend recycled cotton with other materials like polyester or virgin cotton to improve strength and softness. Recent advancements in fiber processing have even increased the recycled fiber content in ring yarn from the usual 20% to as much as 40%, all without sacrificing quality.
Digital printing on recycled cotton is a water-saving powerhouse, using up to 95% less water compared to traditional methods. However, print quality can sometimes vary due to the fiber’s characteristics. That said, digital printing’s flexibility makes it a fantastic choice for custom designs and small-batch production, perfectly aligning with the needs of print-on-demand businesses.
Recycled cotton’s soft texture and moderate durability make it ideal for casual wear like t-shirts, hoodies, and tote bags. Many print-on-demand businesses incorporate recycled cotton blends into their product lines, particularly for promotional items and corporate apparel. These products not only feel great but also tell a compelling sustainability story, attracting eco-conscious consumers who value environmentally friendly choices.
Hemp is a natural fiber that has gained attention for being a sustainable and high-quality option for print-on-demand businesses. This versatile plant has been cultivated for thousands of years, and it grows quickly - maturing in just 90 to 100 days - which allows for multiple harvests each year.
Hemp boasts an impressive environmental profile. It uses significantly less water than cotton - requiring just 4.23 liters compared to cotton’s 57.1 liters for the same amount of fiber - and produces higher yields, ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 kg of fiber per hectare, compared to cotton’s 300 to 1,100 kg. It often thrives without the need for pesticides or herbicides, naturally resists pests and diseases, and even improves soil health through phytoremediation[44,45]. Plus, hemp acts as a carbon sink, absorbing more CO₂ per hectare than trees or other crops.
With the fashion industry generating around 92 million tons of textile waste annually, hemp’s biodegradable nature presents a meaningful way to reduce environmental harm. Beyond its eco-friendly benefits, hemp also delivers in terms of performance.
Hemp is one of the strongest natural fibers available, offering nearly double the textile strength of cotton. In fact, some estimates suggest it can be up to eight times stronger[48,50,52]. This durability ensures that hemp garments not only last longer but also improve with wear, as many industry experts highlight:
“Hemp doesn’t wear out, it wears in.”
Hemp’s resilience extends to resisting pilling, mold, mildew, and UV rays, maintaining its quality even after hundreds of washes.
Hemp fabric is well-suited for digital printing, delivering sharp, detailed designs. While its slightly rough texture can occasionally cause minor inconsistencies with very fine details, screen printing offers an excellent alternative for larger batches, ensuring vibrant and durable results[53,54,56].
“Digital printing offers a fast, affordable, and sustainable solution for custom hemp textile designs.” – Hemp Fortex
To achieve the best results, use high-quality images optimized for printing and consider working with designers experienced in textile printing. This approach aligns perfectly with hemp’s eco-conscious appeal[53,55].
Hemp’s strength and durability make it a standout choice for workwear, outerwear, and even hemp denim. In the print-on-demand space, it shines in casual wear like t-shirts, hoodies, and jackets that can handle frequent use. Its natural breathability and absorbency also make it a top pick for activewear and outdoor gear. Additionally, hemp tote bags are both sturdy and appealing to eco-conscious consumers.
When sourcing hemp products, look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) to ensure ethical and organic production practices[45,46]. As Summer Star Haeske from EnviroTextiles puts it:
“There are no limits to fashion or functionality when making the decision to ‘Go Hemp’! You only gain quality, health and sustainability. Don’t forget one person can change the world and everything we do makes a difference.” – Summer Star Haeske, EnviroTextiles
Bamboo viscose is a standout in the world of sustainable fabrics, blending the natural benefits of bamboo with the practical qualities of a semi-synthetic fiber. It’s a favorite choice for print-on-demand apparel, offering a mix of eco-consciousness and versatility.
Bamboo, the raw material for bamboo viscose, is a powerhouse of sustainability. It grows incredibly fast - reaching full height in just 3 to 5 years - and one acre of bamboo can absorb up to 10,000 pounds of carbon dioxide annually while producing 35% more oxygen than an equivalent mass of trees. Plus, bamboo requires much less water than cotton and can thrive without heavy pesticide use or irrigation.
That said, the process of turning bamboo into viscose involves chemicals like caustic soda, which can affect water quality. Despite this, bamboo viscose remains biodegradable, making it a much greener choice compared to many synthetic fibers. To truly support sustainability, look for brands that are transparent about their production processes and use renewable energy during manufacturing.
When it comes to longevity, bamboo viscose outshines many traditional fabrics. With proper care, it can last over a decade, far surpassing the lifespan of standard cotton. Its durability is further enhanced by excellent color retention, keeping printed designs vibrant even after many washes. However, pure bamboo viscose can sometimes pill or bubble due to its soft, long fibers. To address this, manufacturers often blend it with about 30% cotton, which adds structure while maintaining its softness and other desirable qualities.
Bamboo viscose offers an ideal surface for printing. Its smooth and even texture ensures sharp design clarity and rich, vibrant colors. The fabric’s ability to manage moisture quickly also helps prevent issues like ink bleeding, making it a reliable choice for activewear and other printed garments. Following care instructions is essential to preserve the quality of both the fabric and the print over time.
Thanks to its versatility, bamboo viscose works well across a variety of print-on-demand applications. Its antibacterial and hypoallergenic properties make it a great option for people with sensitive skin. Lightweight and breathable, it’s perfect for summer apparel, including t-shirts, robes, kimonos, and pajamas. The fabric’s antimicrobial and moisture-wicking features also make it a favorite for activewear.
For everyday essentials like underwear, socks, and basic garments, bamboo viscose is valued for its softness and comfort. Its elegant drape and silky texture even make it a compelling alternative to silk for accessories like scarves and shawls, offering greater durability at a lower cost. Blending bamboo viscose with organic cotton is another popular choice, combining sustainability, durability, and excellent printability for staple items like t-shirts.
TENCEL™ Lyocell introduces a modern, eco-conscious approach to fabric choices for print-on-demand. Developed by Lenzing AG, this man-made cellulosic fiber combines sustainable production practices with impressive performance, offering an alternative to traditional materials like cotton and synthetics.
TENCEL™ Lyocell stands out as a leader in environmentally responsible fabric production. It’s made from sustainably harvested wood pulp, often sourced from eucalyptus trees, which require far less water and fewer pesticides than cotton. The production process uses a closed-loop system, recycling over 99% of solvents and water, while consuming 20% less water and producing 50% fewer carbon emissions compared to cotton.
What’s more, TENCEL™ Lyocell is biodegradable and compostable, meaning it naturally decomposes at the end of its life cycle. It also uses less dye and eliminates the need for bleaching, further reducing its environmental footprint. Lenzing AG ensures that all wood is sourced from responsibly managed PEFC or FSC-certified tree plantations, supporting sustainable forestry practices. These eco-conscious methods not only protect the planet but also create a fabric built to last.
Durability is another strong suit of TENCEL™ Lyocell. Unlike many other fabrics, it maintains its strength even when wet, making it ideal for garments that undergo frequent washing. Its soft texture and natural sheen add to its appeal, making it a top choice for print-on-demand apparel.
The fabric also excels in moisture management. It can absorb up to 50% more moisture than cotton while retaining its structural integrity, which is a key advantage for activewear and other performance-focused garments.
TENCEL™ Lyocell offers a superb surface for high-quality printing. It works seamlessly with dyes used for cotton, viscose, and modal, making it compatible with existing print-on-demand processes. Screen printing is especially effective, providing a cost-efficient and productive method for vibrant designs.
To achieve the best print results, careful adjustment of the print paste’s viscosity is essential. This ensures sharp details and vivid colors while preserving the fabric’s soft and supple feel. Plus, since TENCEL™ requires less dye than cotton, businesses can achieve bold, vibrant prints while using fewer resources.
The versatility of TENCEL™ Lyocell makes it a go-to choice for a wide range of applications. Its breathability and moisture-wicking properties make it ideal for lightweight apparel, sportswear, and athleisure garments. Its hypoallergenic and ultra-soft qualities are perfect for loungewear and intimate apparel, catering to those with sensitive skin.
Beyond clothing, TENCEL™ Lyocell is used for accessories like scarves and bags, as well as home textiles such as bedding and towels. These products offer breathable, hypoallergenic comfort that resonates with eco-conscious shoppers. It’s also gaining popularity in promotional products like custom tote bags and caps, allowing brands to showcase their commitment to sustainability.
For added flexibility, TENCEL™ Lyocell can be blended with other materials to enhance specific attributes while maintaining its eco-friendly profile. This adaptability enables print-on-demand businesses to deliver premium, sustainable options across a variety of product categories, ensuring both quality and environmental responsibility.
Linen, derived from flax plants, has stood the test of time as a durable and eco-conscious fabric. It’s a favorite among print-on-demand businesses due to its minimal environmental footprint and enduring charm. While modern materials like TENCEL™ Lyocell have gained attention, linen remains a trusted, sustainable choice for fashion enthusiasts.
Linen is celebrated for its minimal environmental impact. Flax plants, which produce linen, need 40% less water than cotton, and a single linen shirt requires just 6.4 liters of water throughout its lifecycle - significantly less than its cotton counterpart. Even more impressive, flax cultivation uses 13 times fewer pesticides than potato farming. Beyond production, linen garments biodegrade within two weeks and, unlike synthetic fabrics, they don’t release harmful microplastics during washing.
One of linen’s standout qualities is its resilience. With every wash, the fabric becomes stronger and softer, making it a long-lasting wardrobe staple.
“French linen is renowned for its longevity. It is one of the strongest natural fibers, and Linen garments can endure for generations when properly cared for.” – Wallaby Collective
When cared for correctly, linen clothing can last 5–10 years, far outliving cotton’s average lifespan of 3–7 years. It’s naturally resistant to pilling and shrinking, especially when pre-washed, and can absorb up to 20% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp.
Linen’s high absorbency makes it an excellent canvas for print-on-demand projects, ensuring that ink penetrates deeply for vibrant and durable designs.
“Digital printing on linen is not only feasible but also increasingly popular in the textile industry.” – Monday Merch
For larger orders, screen printing is also a great option, delivering bold and vivid results. However, linen’s absorbent nature requires precision during printing to prevent ink from spreading.
Linen’s natural properties make it perfect for summer clothing such as casual shirts, dresses, and lightweight jackets. Its texture and elegant drape cater to customers looking for refined yet sustainable fashion. Beyond apparel, linen is widely used in home textiles like custom bedding, tablecloths, and decorative pillows, prized for its durability and eco-friendliness. It’s also a popular choice for accessories and promotional items like tote bags, aprons, and tea towels - products that align with environmentally conscious values.
As consumers increasingly prioritize sustainability, linen continues to gain traction as a high-quality, long-lasting fabric that supports responsible choices in fashion and beyond.
Here’s a side-by-side look at sustainable fabrics to help you make informed decisions for your print-on-demand business. This chart highlights the key attributes of each material, making it easier to choose the right fabric for your needs.
Fabric
Environmental Impact
Durability
Print Quality
Common Uses
Cost Range
Key Certifications
Comfort Level
Organic Cotton
Minimal – grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers
High
Excellent – smooth surface for detailed prints
T-shirts, hoodies, baby clothes
$
GOTS, OEKO-TEX®
Soft and breathable
Recycled Polyester (rPET)
Low – reduces plastic waste in landfills
Very high – resists shrinking/stretching
Excellent – vivid colors with sublimation
Activewear, performance apparel
$
GRS, OEKO-TEX®
Smooth, moisture-wicking
Recycled Cotton
Low – saves water and energy
Moderate-High – shorter fibers may affect strength
Good – slightly rougher texture
Casual tees, eco-friendly basics
$
GRS, OEKO-TEX®
Familiar cotton feel
Hemp
Very low – needs little water or pesticides
Very high – strengthens with use
Good – textured surface adds a natural feel
Durable shirts, eco-conscious fashion
$$
OEKO-TEX®
Breathable, initially rough
Bamboo Viscose
Varies – depends on processing methods
Moderate – soft but less durable alone
Excellent – silky finish for high-quality prints
Underwear, loungewear, soft tees
$
FSC, OEKO-TEX®
Very soft and silky
TENCEL™ Lyocell
Very low – made via a closed-loop process
High – strong and long-lasting
Excellent – smooth surface for vibrant prints
Premium tees, athleisure wear
$$
FSC, OEKO-TEX®
Silky soft and breathable
Linen
Very low – flax requires much less water than cotton
Excellent – gets stronger with washing
Good – absorbent with a textured surface
Summer shirts, dresses, home textiles
$$
OEKO-TEX®
Cool and crisp
Cost Guide:
- $ = Budget-friendly
- $$ = Premium pricing
This breakdown makes it clear where each fabric shines. For affordability and performance, organic cotton and recycled polyester are top picks. If you’re after durability and texture, hemp, TENCEL™ Lyocell, and linen deliver exceptional results.
When it comes to print quality, organic cotton, TENCEL™ Lyocell, and bamboo viscose offer smooth surfaces for detailed designs. Meanwhile, recycled polyester stands out for its vivid sublimation printing and moisture-wicking properties, making it perfect for activewear.
Premium options like hemp and linen justify their price with longevity and a natural aesthetic. Recycled fabrics, on the other hand, support a circular economy while remaining cost-effective. Pair these eco-friendly materials with tools like Print2Social to automate social media content that highlights your brand’s commitment to sustainability.
Opting for sustainable fabrics in your print-on-demand (POD) business is a smart way to connect with environmentally conscious consumers. This approach not only minimizes waste but also enhances your brand’s appeal in a market that values eco-responsibility.
By integrating materials like organic cotton, recycled polyester, and TENCEL™ Lyocell into your product offerings, you’re aligning with a more sustainable business model. When paired with advanced DTG printing techniques, this strategy can significantly reduce environmental impact - using up to 95% less water and 60% less energy compared to traditional printing methods.
Sustainable choices can also strengthen customer loyalty. Many consumers are willing to invest more in products that reflect their values. Offering apparel made from eco-friendly fabrics not only promotes environmental responsibility but also positions your brand as a leader in this space. This can lead to stronger customer relationships and increased word-of-mouth promotion.
Clear communication about your sustainable practices is key. Social media is an excellent platform to educate your audience about the benefits of eco-friendly fabrics and highlight your commitment to sustainability. Tools like Print2Social make this process easier by automating content creation and scheduling. By connecting with your POD fulfillment providers and social media accounts, it generates engaging visuals and videos that showcase your eco-friendly products, helping you maintain consistent messaging with less effort.
Each sustainable fabric - whether organic or recycled - brings its own advantages. When combined with the flexibility of a POD model, these materials can drive both environmental and business success. Starting with one or two eco-friendly fabric options is a practical way to meet growing customer demand for sustainability while building a strong foundation for your brand’s future.
Using eco-friendly fabrics in print-on-demand apparel comes with a host of benefits for businesses and the planet. Since items are produced only when they’re ordered, this approach helps cut down on waste by avoiding overproduction and surplus inventory. Many of these fabrics are created using environmentally conscious techniques, like water-based inks and digital printing. These methods use less water and fewer chemicals, which means a smaller environmental footprint.
On top of that, choosing sustainable materials aligns with responsible manufacturing practices and resonates with consumers who prioritize green products. This can boost your brand’s image while contributing to broader environmental goals - a win for your business and the planet.
Sustainable fabrics tend to leave a much smaller environmental footprint than traditional materials like conventional cotton and virgin polyester. Take organic cotton, for instance - it’s grown without pesticides, requires less water, and promotes healthier soil. Then there’s recycled polyester, which gives plastic waste a second life. Producing it uses up to 59% less energy compared to virgin polyester and helps combat plastic pollution.
On the flip side, conventional cotton often demands heavy pesticide use and consumes a lot of water. Virgin polyester, made from non-renewable resources, adds to greenhouse gas emissions and generates chemical waste. Opting for eco-friendly fabrics can significantly cut down on water usage, energy consumption, and pollution, making them a smarter choice for print-on-demand apparel.
When picking materials for your print-on-demand business, it’s smart to focus on fabrics that are kinder to the planet. Opt for options made from organic, recycled, or renewable resources - these use less water, energy, and fewer chemicals during production, making them a better choice for the environment.
You’ll also want to think about practical factors like durability, comfort, and how well the fabric works with eco-friendly inks and printing techniques. By choosing sustainable fabrics, you’re not just cutting down on your environmental impact - you’re also attracting eco-conscious customers who value ethical products. It’s a win-win for your business and the planet.
