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Fabric guides, data & research.
Everything you need to know about fabric, comfort, health, and what your clothes are actually made of.
Fabric School
One fibre, one lesson — every fabric in your wardrobe, decodedWhy Your Jeans Can't Be Recycled
Two percent of elastane is the reason almost nothing you own can be turned back into new clothes.
Fabric SchoolWhy Your Cheap Sweater Smells After One Wash
It's not the wash, it's the fibre. Acrylic was built to imitate wool — but it traps odour permanently.
Fabric SchoolPolyester: You're Probably Wearing Oil
The historical accident — leftover petroleum byproducts — that put the same fibre in every wardrobe on earth.
Fabric SchoolBamboo Clothing Is a Lie
Why the FTC has fined brands millions for calling viscose 'bamboo' — and what's actually in the fabric.
Fabric SchoolWool: The Natural Fabric That Beats the High-Tech Stuff
Generates its own heat when wet. Fights smell on its own. Beats most synthetic base layers ever invented.
Fabric SchoolNylon: The First Miracle Fibre
Once advertised as 'coal, air, and water,' nylon was the world's first fully synthetic fibre — still in your tights and seatbelts.
Fabric SchoolLinen: The 36,000-Year-Old Fabric
The oldest fabric ever found, in a Georgian cave. Barely needs water. Quietly one of the best fibres on earth.
Fabric SchoolSilk: The Protein You Wear
The only natural fabric that's a protein — chemically closer to your own hair than to cotton.
Fabric SchoolWhy Most 'Cotton' Jeans Aren't Really Cotton
Around 80% of women's denim is now stretch denim — and that two percent of elastane changes everything.
Fabric SchoolHemp: The Fabric That Came Back from Prohibition
Banned in the US for 81 years. Legal again since 2018. One of the most efficient fibres we know how to grow.
Guides
Shopping, labels & how-tosWhy "100% Cotton" Can Legally Contain Plastic
The thread stitching your 100% cotton tee together is almost certainly polyester. So is the waistband elastic. So is most of the embroidery. The label is still legally correct. Here's the rule that lets it happen.
Threads of TimeThe Dress That Could Kill You: The Saga of Arsenic Green
The most fashionable colour of the 1800s was made with arsenic — and it was on dresses, gloves, fake flowers, wallpaper, even children's toys. The full saga of Scheele's green.
The DecisionWhy Athleisure Ate Your Whole Closet
Lululemon went from $453M to $10.5B revenue in fifteen years. The global athleisure market is now over $400B. Inside the business strategy that turned performance synthetics into everyday wear — and quietly normalised head-to-toe plastic.
Shopping GuideBest Fabrics for Travel: Pack Light Without Packing Plastic
The best travel fabrics aren't synthetic — they're merino wool, linen, and cotton. Here's why natural fibres outperform polyester on the road, and how to build a travel wardrobe that stays fresh.
Health & WellnessThe Biohacker's Guide to Clothing: What to Wear for Optimal Health
Clothing is a health variable most biohackers ignore. Fabric choices affect sleep, temperature regulation, skin microbiome, chemical exposure, and microplastic load. Here's how to optimise.
Shopping GuideThe Natural Fibre Capsule Wardrobe: 20 Pieces, Zero Plastic
Build a complete capsule wardrobe from 100% natural fibres — 20 versatile pieces that cover every season, every occasion, zero synthetic plastic. With specific fabric recommendations for each item.
Threads of TimeThe Designer Who Dressed Women in Underwear Fabric: Chanel and the Jersey Revolution
Around 1916, Coco Chanel did something genuinely scandalous: she made elegant womenswear out of jersey — a humble knit reserved for men's underwear. The full saga.
Health & WellnessChemicals in Clothing: What's Really on Your Fabric (And What It Does to You)
Your clothes contain formaldehyde, PFAS, phthalates, heavy metals, and synthetic dyes. Here's what these chemicals do to your body and how to reduce your exposure.
Health & WellnessIs Your Clothing Making You Sick? A Guide to Textile Sensitivities
Skin rashes, eczema flare-ups, body odour, sweating, and irritation can all be caused by what you wear. Here's how fabric choices affect your health and what to do about it.
Threads of TimeHow a Pair of Gold-Miner's Pants Conquered the Planet: The Saga of Denim
Patent 139,121. May 20th, 1873. The day a Latvian tailor and a Bavarian dry-goods merchant invented the jean. The full history of denim — and what's quietly different about the pair you own now.
Myth vs Fiber"Dry Clean Only" Doesn't Mean Quality. Sometimes It Means the Opposite
We see "dry clean only" and assume fancy. A lot of the time it means the fabric or the construction can't survive a normal wash, and the brand is quietly handing the risk to you. Here's how to read that label honestly.
The DecisionFashion's Second-Biggest Pollution Problem Isn't Plastic. It's the Dye.
Around 20% of all industrial water pollution comes from textile dyeing. The UN estimates the fashion industry produces 20% of global wastewater. Inside the colour problem nobody puts on a hangtag.
Health & WellnessEndocrine Disruptors in Clothing: What the Research Says
Phthalates, BPA, PFAS, and flame retardants in clothing interfere with your hormones. Here's which garments carry the highest risk and how to minimize exposure.
The DecisionWhy Every Brand Suddenly Cares About the Planet. The Marketing That Moves Faster Than the Supply Chain
Sometime in the last few years, every brand on Earth discovered the planet. Green capsules everywhere. The fabric stayed mostly plastic. Inside why marketing races ahead of operations — and how to spot the gap.
Myth vs FiberYour €120 Leggings Shed Just as Much Plastic as €15 Ones
There's a comforting belief that microplastic shedding is a cheap-clothes problem. It isn't. A microplastic is a microplastic. Premium polyester is the same polymer as budget polyester. Here's what actually moves the needle.
Health & WellnessFabric Allergies: How to Identify and Avoid Textile Reactions
Textile contact dermatitis affects up to 8% of people. Learn how to identify fabric allergy triggers — disperse dyes, formaldehyde, rubber accelerators, nickel — and systematically eliminate them.
Shopping GuideFabric Certifications Explained: GOTS, OEKO-TEX, FSC & More
GOTS, OEKO-TEX, BCI, FSC — fabric certifications are confusing. Here's what each one actually means, which ones matter, and which are greenwashing.
Shopping GuideWhat Those Fabric Care Symbols on Clothing Labels Mean
A complete guide to the care symbols on your clothing labels — washing, drying, ironing, bleaching, and dry cleaning icons decoded. Plus how care needs differ by fabric type.
The DecisionWhy Fast Fashion Can't Make a Proper Coat. The One Garment That Breaks the Whole Model
Fast fashion can copy any trend in two weeks. The one thing it struggles to fake is a real coat. Inside why wool, structure, and skilled hands are the exact opposite of how the system works.
Shopping GuideGreenwashing in Fashion: How to Spot Fake Sustainability Claims
H&M Conscious, Shein evoluSHEIN, Mango Committed — most fashion 'sustainability' lines are greenwashing. Here's how to see through the marketing and check real fabric data.
Threads of TimeThe Fabric the U.S. Government Made Illegal: The Hemp Prohibition Saga
In 1937 America criminalised one of its oldest crops. In 1942 it begged farmers to plant it again, then denied the film existed for decades. The eighty-year saga of hemp prohibition.
Health & WellnessHow Fabric Affects Sleep Quality: What to Wear (and Sleep On)
Your sleepwear and bedding fabric directly affects sleep quality. Research shows cotton and linen outperform polyester for thermoregulation. Here's what to choose and why.
HealthHow the Fabric You Wear Affects Your Hormones
Your clothing contains chemicals that disrupt your endocrine system — from PFAS and phthalates to formaldehyde and flame retardants. Here's what the research says and how to protect yourself.
Shopping GuidesHow to Avoid Polyester When Shopping Online (Without Checking Every Product Page)
A practical guide to identifying and avoiding polyester clothing when shopping online. Learn what to look for, which brands use natural fabrics, and tools that help.
Shopping GuideHow to Detox Your Wardrobe: A Step-by-Step Guide
A practical guide to auditing your wardrobe for synthetic fabrics, prioritizing replacements, and building a cleaner, natural-fibre wardrobe without starting from scratch.
Shopping GuidesHow to Find Natural-Fibre Clothing Online (A Practical Guide)
Finding clothes made from cotton, linen, wool, and silk is harder than it should be. Here's a practical system for shopping natural-fibre clothing online.
Shopping GuideHow to Read Clothing Labels: A Complete Guide to Fabric Composition
What fabric percentages actually mean, which materials are natural vs synthetic, marketing terms that hide polyester, and what to look for before you buy.
Shopping GuideHow to Shop for Natural Fibre Clothing Online (Without Getting Fooled)
Online shopping makes it hard to check fabric composition. Learn how to find fibre content on different retailer sites, spot misleading product names, and use filter tricks to find natural fibre clothing.
Care GuideHow to Wash Clothes to Reduce Microplastic Pollution
Every wash of synthetic clothing releases up to 900,000 microplastic fibres. Here are 8 proven ways to reduce shedding — from washing bags to temperature changes.
Data & ResearchIs Fast Fashion Getting Worse? What the Data Shows
Synthetic fabric usage is rising, prices are falling, and production volumes are increasing. Here's what the data says about whether fast fashion is getting worse — with numbers from Fibr's own analysis.
Health & WellnessIs Nylon Bad for Your Skin? What You Need to Know
Nylon traps heat, blocks moisture, and carries chemical finishes that irritate sensitive skin. Here's the science on nylon and skin health — and when it's unavoidable.
Health & SkinIs Polyester Bad for Your Skin? What Dermatologists Actually Say
Dermatologists explain how polyester affects your skin — from eczema flare-ups to acne and contact dermatitis. Plus which fabrics are safest for sensitive skin.
Deep DiveIs Recycled Polyester Actually Sustainable? The Uncomfortable Truth
Recycled polyester is fashion's favourite sustainability claim. It still sheds microplastics, traps heat, and takes 200+ years to decompose. Here's what brands aren't telling you.
Threads of TimeMad as a Hatter: The Mercury Poisoning Behind Fashion's Strangest Phrase
'Mad as a hatter' wasn't a figure of speech. For a century, the people who made fashionable felt hats were being slowly poisoned by mercury. The full saga.
Myth vs Fiber"Made in Italy" Is a Vibe, Not a Fabric Promise. Here's the Loophole
"Made in Italy" instantly conjures heritage, craftsmanship, premium fabric. The legal rule for putting those three words on a label is much looser than shoppers realise — and a lot of "Made in Italy" garments are fast fashion with a passport.
Myth vs FiberThe 5 Marketing Words That All Secretly Mean Polyester
Performance. Technical. Moisture-wicking. Premium blend. Microfibre. There are five words brands reach for when 'polyester' would be technically accurate and commercially suicidal. Once you spot them, you can't unsee them.
Health & WellnessMicroplastics and Your Body: What Happens When You Wear Synthetic Clothes
Synthetic clothing sheds microplastics that end up in your blood, lungs, and organs. Here's what the science says about health effects, exposure routes, and how to reduce your risk.
Shopping GuideHow to Build a Natural Fibre Wardrobe on a Budget
Natural fibre clothing doesn't have to be expensive. Here's how to find affordable cotton, linen, and wool — including fast fashion items that are actually 100% natural.
Threads of TimeThe Day Women Rioted Over Stockings: The Strange Birth of Nylon
In 1946, forty thousand women queued sixteen blocks in pouring rain for nylon stockings. The fabric was invented by a man who never saw it succeed. The full saga.
Health & WellnessPFAS in Clothing: The 'Forever Chemicals' in Your Wardrobe
PFAS 'forever chemicals' are in 72% of stain-resistant clothing. Learn where they hide, what they do to your body, and how to avoid them when shopping for clothes.
Health & WellnessWhy Polyester Makes You Smell: The Science of Fabric and Body Odour
Polyester clothing harbours 3x more odour-causing bacteria than cotton. Here's the microbiology behind why synthetic fabrics smell worse — and which natural fibres fight odour naturally.
The DecisionPolyester Isn't Cheap. It's Fast. Why Speed Put Plastic in Your Wardrobe
The real reason brands choose polyester isn't price — it's the calendar. When the design-to-shelf window shrinks to a week, no harvest can keep up. An industry insider's look at why synthetic fibre won.
Threads of TimeHow Polyester Pulled Off Fashion's Greatest Rebrand
In 1975 polyester was a punchline. By 1991 the same fibre was reborn as 'microfibre' and 'performance fabric.' The story of fashion's greatest rebrand — and how to spot it on a label.
Health & WellnessWhat Fabrics Are Safe During Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, chemical exposure through clothing matters more than ever. Learn which fabrics are safest, which chemicals to avoid (PFAS, formaldehyde, phthalates), and how to reduce textile-related risks.
Shopping GuideThe Real Cost of Cheap Clothing: Why Polyester Saves You Nothing
Cheap polyester clothing costs more in the long run: faster degradation, higher replacement rates, health costs, and environmental externalities. Here's the full cost-per-wear analysis.
Myth vs Fiber"Recycled Polyester Solved It" — The Myth That Won't Go Away
Recycled polyester sounds like the answer. A 2025 study found it sheds about 55% more microfibres than virgin polyester — and the recycling loop isn't really a loop. Here's the honest version.
Myth vs FiberSecondhand Doesn't Cancel Out Fast Fashion. Here's What It Actually Does
I checked my last Vinted haul — six of the seven items were polyester. Buying secondhand is fantastic for the planet, but it doesn't un-plastic the plastic. The honest version of what thrifting solves and what it doesn't.
Threads of TimeThe 3,000-Year Secret: How Two Monks Smuggled Silk Out of China
For three thousand years, the secret of silk was a Chinese state secret. Then in 552 CE, two monks broke it with hollow bamboo canes. The full saga — and why most 'silk' today is plastic.
The DecisionStretch Isn't Just Comfort. It's Logistics. Why Elastane Is in Almost Everything
That 2% elastane in your jeans isn't only for comfort — it's a return-rate insurance policy. Inside the warehouse math that quietly put stretch into your entire wardrobe.
Health & WellnessSynthetic Clothing and Fertility: Should You Be Worried?
Research links polyester underwear to reduced sperm count, and microplastics have been found in reproductive tissues. Here's what the science says about synthetic clothing and fertility.
Threads of TimeHow a War Invented the T-Shirt: The Saga of the World's Most-Worn Garment
The t-shirt began life as military underwear. It took a world war to spread it — and a 1951 Marlon Brando film to make it acceptable to wear in public. The full saga.
Threads of TimeWhen a Pattern Was Banned by Law: The Saga of the 1746 Dress Act
For 36 years, wearing tartan in the Scottish Highlands could get you imprisoned — or transported overseas. The full saga of the Dress Act of 1746 and the pattern a government feared.
Myth vs Fiber"Vegan Leather Is the Eco Choice" — It's Usually Just Plastic
Most vegan leather is polyurethane or PVC bonded to a fabric backing. Same petroleum, kinder-sounding word. The plant-based versions exist — but the first luxury mycelium handbag killed its own supply chain. Here's the trade-off the label isn't having.
Shopping GuideWhat to Look for on Clothing Labels: A Quick Reference
A quick-scan guide to clothing labels: what the fibre percentages mean, which certifications matter, red flags to watch for, and how to decode care symbols — all in under 5 minutes.
Myth vs FiberWhen Plastic Is Actually the Greener Choice
I run a whole site about reading fabric labels — and natural fibre doesn't win every round. A cotton t-shirt drinks 2,700 litres of water. In wet, stretchy, or technical use, synthetic is often the smarter, lower-impact call. Here's the honest version.
The DecisionWhy Almost Nothing in Your Closet Can Be Recycled
Less than 1% of clothing gets recycled into new clothing — not because we're lazy, but because the fabric itself was designed to make it impossible. Inside the chemistry of the blend.
The DecisionWhy Your Clothes Feel Disposable. The Quiet Business Logic Behind a Three-Wash Wardrobe
Your grandmother had clothes she wore for thirty years. You've got things that pilled into oblivion after three washes. Inside the business incentives that quietly make modern garments short-lived.
Comfort & QualityWhy Do Modern Clothes Feel Cheap? The Fabric Problem Nobody Talks About
Modern clothes feel thin, scratchy, and plasticky because most are made from polyester — a plastic fibre. Here's why clothing quality dropped and how to find better fabrics.
Comfort & QualityWhy Does Polyester Make Me Sweaty? The Science of Synthetic Fabrics and Heat
Polyester makes you sweat because it's plastic — it doesn't absorb moisture or let air through. Here's exactly why synthetic fabrics trap heat and what to wear instead.
The DecisionWhy Everything Comes in 12 Colors. What a Colour Range Quietly Tells You About the Fabric
Fast fashion drops the same dress in twelve shades. Natural-fibre brands offer two or three. It's not generosity — it's chemistry. The colour grid is a quiet readout of what the fabric actually is.
Material IntelligenceWhy Is Everything Polyester Now?
38.1% of products across major brands contain polyester. Fibr analysed 17,365 products to show why — and which categories still use natural fibres.
The DecisionWhy Your Favorite Brand Quietly Got Worse
The brand you loved didn't raise the price — they changed the fabric. Inside the silent shrinkflation happening on every clothing label as costs rise and brands swap quality for margin.
Science & HealthWhy Your Gym Clothes Still Smell After Washing (It's the Polyester)
The science behind why synthetic workout clothes retain odour even after washing — and how to fix it. Peer-reviewed research on bacteria, polyester, and smell.
Health & WellnessWhy Do New Clothes Smell Like Chemicals? (And Is It Dangerous?)
That chemical smell on new clothes isn't just unpleasant — it's formaldehyde, VOCs, and finishing agents off-gassing from the fabric. Here's what the science says and how to protect yourself.
Fabric ProblemsWhy Your T-Shirt Gets Twisted After Washing (And How to Stop It)
T-shirts that twist and spiral after washing are caused by fabric torque in knit fabrics. Learn why it happens and how fabric composition can prevent it.
The DecisionWhy Your T-Shirt Is See-Through Now. The Hidden Number Brands Are Quietly Cutting
There's a number on a t-shirt nobody tells you about — fabric weight, measured in GSM — and it's been shrinking for years. Inside the silent downgrade nobody photographs.
Threads of TimeThe Teenager Who Accidentally Invented Color: William Perkin's Purple
Easter weekend, 1856. An 18-year-old chemistry student tries to cure malaria and accidentally invents the first synthetic dye. The saga of how a teenager invented the modern fashion colour palette.
Myth vs FiberWrinkles Aren't Cheap. They're Usually a Sign the Fabric Is Real
We've been trained to read wrinkles as low quality. It's almost backwards. The fabrics that crease most — linen, cotton, silk — are the natural ones. The fabrics that stay magically crisp all day are usually polyester. Wrinkling is a green flag.
Health & Skin
What fabrics do to your bodyIs Polyester Bad for Your Skin? What Dermatologists Actually Say
Polyester traps heat, breeds bacteria, and irritates sensitive skin. Here's what dermatologists actually say.
Comfort & QualityWhy Does Polyester Smell? The Bacteria Science Behind Synthetic Stink
Polyester harbours odour-causing bacteria at 5x the rate of cotton.
Fabric Guides
Deep dives into each materialAcrylic vs Wool: Why Cheap Sweaters Don't Keep You Warm
Acrylic is plastic pretending to be wool. It traps heat without regulating it, pills badly, and sheds microplastics. Here's why real wool is worth the premium.
Fabric GuideBamboo vs Cotton: Which Is Really More Sustainable?
Most 'bamboo fabric' is actually bamboo viscose — chemically processed and not as green as marketing suggests. Here's the honest comparison with cotton.
Fabric GuideBest Fabrics for Hot Weather: What to Wear When It's Scorching
The best fabrics for hot weather are linen, cotton, and Tencel. Here's exactly why — and which fabrics to avoid if you don't want to be a sweaty mess.
Fabric GuideCotton: The Complete Guide to the World's Most Popular Natural Fabric
Everything about cotton — types (organic, Pima, Egyptian, Supima), how it compares to polyester, how to spot fake cotton blends, and why it still dominates clothing.
Fabric GuideLinen: The Complete Guide to the World's Oldest (and Best) Fabric
Everything you need to know about linen — why it's stronger than cotton, how to care for it, best linen brands, and why wrinkles are actually a feature.
Fabric GuideCotton vs Bamboo vs Tencel: Which Natural-ish Fabric Is Best?
Cotton, bamboo, and Tencel are the three fabrics people reach for when avoiding polyester. Here's how they actually compare on sustainability, skin feel, moisture, and price.
Fabric ComparisonCotton vs Linen: Which Is Better for Summer?
Cotton vs linen for summer — we compare breathability, comfort, durability, price, and care so you can decide what to actually buy for hot weather.
Fabric ComparisonCotton vs Polyester: Which Actually Feels Better? (Honest Comparison)
A no-nonsense comparison of cotton vs polyester — covering comfort, breathability, durability, odour, and when each fabric actually makes sense.
Fabric GuideHemp: The Comeback Fabric That Uses 73% Less Water Than Cotton
Hemp is 3x stronger than cotton, uses 73% less water, needs no pesticides, and gets softer with every wash. Here's why it was banned and why it's back.
Fabric GuideLinen vs Silk: Which Is Best for Summer?
Both linen and silk are natural, breathable, and luxurious — but they serve different purposes. Here's when to choose each for warm-weather clothing and beyond.
Fabric GuideMerino Wool vs Synthetic Activewear: Which Actually Performs Better?
Merino wool vs polyester and nylon for exercise — comparing odour resistance, temperature regulation, moisture management, microplastics, and real-world performance data.
Fabric GuideOrganic Cotton vs Conventional Cotton: Is It Worth the Price?
Conventional cotton uses 16% of the world's insecticides on 2.4% of cropland. Organic cotton uses 91% less blue water. Here's whether the price premium is justified.
Fabric GuidePolyester vs Cotton vs Linen: Which Should You Actually Buy?
The three most common clothing fabrics compared honestly — comfort, health, environment, cost, and durability. A clear framework for choosing the right fabric.
Fabric ComparisonPolyester vs Nylon: Which Synthetic Is Less Terrible?
Polyester and nylon are both plastic fabrics made from petroleum. Here's an honest comparison of comfort, durability, environmental impact, and when each makes sense.
Fabric GuideSilk vs Polyester Satin: How to Tell the Difference
Most 'satin' products are polyester, not silk. The price gap is huge and so is the quality difference. Here's how to identify real silk and why it matters for your skin.
Fabric GuideTencel vs Cotton: Which Is Better for Your Skin?
Both Tencel and cotton are skin-safe, breathable, and free from microplastics. But they perform differently on moisture, friction, and sustainability. Here's the honest comparison.
Fabric GuideViscose vs Polyester: Is Viscose Actually Natural?
Viscose comes from wood pulp; polyester comes from petroleum. One breathes, one doesn't. But 'natural' is more complicated than brands suggest. Full comparison inside.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Alpaca Wool? Softer Than Cashmere, Warmer Than Sheep Wool
Alpaca wool is hypoallergenic (no lanolin), 5x warmer than sheep wool, and more sustainable than cashmere. Here's the complete guide to this underrated luxury fibre.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Bamboo Fabric? The Greenwashing Favourite, Explained
Bamboo fabric sounds eco-friendly, but most 'bamboo clothing' is chemically processed viscose. Here's the truth about bamboo rayon, bamboo lyocell, and what to actually buy.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Cashmere? (And Why So Much of It Is Fake)
Cashmere comes from goats, not sheep — and up to 90% of cashmere sold online may be mislabelled or adulterated. Here's how real cashmere works and how to verify it.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Cupro Fabric? The Vegan Silk Alternative
Cupro is made from cotton linter waste and feels like silk. It's breathable, biodegradable, vegan, and used in everything from Uniqlo AIRism to luxury linings. Here's what you need to know.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Denim? Why Jeans Are Fashion's Most Natural Category
Denim is cotton twill weave — and jeans are one of the last clothing categories still dominated by natural fibres. Zara jeans average 99.1% natural. Here's the full story.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Elastane (Spandex)? The Stretch Fabric in Everything You Own
Elastane, spandex, and Lycra are the same synthetic fibre. Here's what it is, why it's in almost every garment, whether it's safe for your skin, and when to avoid it.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Flannel? The Winter Fabric That's Actually Cotton
Flannel is a weave, not a fibre — and most flannel is cotton. Here's what flannel actually is, why it's warm, and when to choose it over polyester fleece.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Hemp Fabric? The Most Durable Natural Fibre You're Not Wearing
Hemp is stronger than cotton, uses 50% less water to grow, needs zero pesticides, and gets softer with every wash. Here's why it's making a comeback — and where to find it.
Fabric GuideMerino Wool: Why the World's Smartest Fabric Isn't Just for Hiking
Merino wool regulates temperature, resists odour for days, absorbs 30% of its weight in moisture, and works in every season. Here's the complete guide.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Modal Fabric? The Complete Guide
Modal is a semi-synthetic fabric made from beech wood — softer than cotton, 50% more absorbent, and increasingly popular in underwear and loungewear. Here's the full picture.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Nylon? The Other Plastic in Your Clothes
Nylon is a petroleum-based synthetic that releases nitrous oxide during production — 310x worse than CO2. Here's what nylon is, where it hides, and why it matters.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Polyester? The Complete Guide to Fashion's Most Controversial Fabric
Polyester is plastic made from petroleum. Here's how it's made, why it dominates fast fashion, what it does to your skin, and how to avoid it when shopping online.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Rayon? (And How It Differs From Viscose)
Rayon is a semi-synthetic fabric made from wood pulp. Viscose, modal, and lyocell are all types of rayon — but they're not equally good. Here's what you need to know.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Silk? The Only Fabric Guide You Need
Silk is the most luxurious natural fibre on earth — breathable, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable. Here's everything you need to know about real silk vs fake silk.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Tencel? The Sustainable Fabric That Actually Delivers
Tencel (lyocell) is made from wood pulp in a closed-loop process that recovers 99% of solvents. Here's why it's the gold standard for sustainable fabric.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Tweed? The Original Durable Fabric
Tweed is a rough-textured wool fabric built to last decades. From Harris Tweed certification to modern uses, here's the complete guide to fashion's most durable fabric.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Viscose? The Semi-Synthetic Fabric Explained
Viscose is made from wood pulp but chemically processed into fibre. It's breathable, biodegradable, and drapey — but the manufacturing involves toxic chemicals. Here's the full picture.
Fabric GuideWool: The Complete Guide to Nature's Performance Fabric
Wool regulates temperature in both heat and cold, absorbs 30% moisture without feeling wet, resists odour and flame naturally, and biodegrades in years. Here's everything you need to know.
Fabric ComparisonWool vs Cashmere: Is Cashmere Really Worth 10x the Price?
Wool and cashmere both come from animals, but the price gap is enormous. Here's an honest comparison of warmth, softness, durability, and whether cashmere is worth the investment.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Viscose? Natural, Synthetic, or Something Else?
Viscose is made from wood pulp but chemically processed. Here's whether it's actually better than polyester.
Fabric GuideWhat Is Acrylic Fabric? The Cheap Wool Substitute Nobody Wants
Acrylic is a synthetic fibre that pills, retains odour, and doesn't regulate temperature.
Data & Research
Hard numbers with sourcesWhat Are Your Clothes Actually Made Of? We Audited 11 Major Brands
We compared the fabric composition of Shein, Zara, H&M, Uniqlo, Primark, ASOS, Nike, Lululemon, Gap, and more. Here's how much polyester each brand actually uses.
Data & ResearchFashion Brand Sustainability Claims vs Actual Fabric Data
We compared what fashion brands claim about sustainability with what Fibr's product data actually shows. The gap between marketing and reality is significant.
Data & ResearchFast Fashion Waste: The Numbers Behind the Crisis
100 billion garments produced annually, 92 million tonnes in landfill, less than 1% recycled. The hard statistics on fast fashion's waste problem.
Data & ResearchMicroplastics in Clothing: 30 Statistics You Need to Know
Hard data on microplastics from synthetic clothing — how many are released per wash, found in human blood, and entering the ocean. All statistics sourced and cited.
Data & ResearchNatural vs Synthetic Fibres: The Complete Comparison
A comprehensive comparison of natural fibres (cotton, linen, wool, silk) vs synthetic fibres (polyester, nylon, acrylic) — covering comfort, health, environment, cost, and performance.
Data & ResearchPolyester in Fashion: A Complete Data Overview (2026)
The definitive data reference on polyester in fashion — production stats, retailer data from 17,365+ products, category breakdowns, microplastic numbers, and growth trends.
Data & ResearchTop Fashion Retailers Ranked by Natural Fibre Percentage (2026 Data)
We analysed 17,365 products across 6 major retailers to rank them by natural fibre percentage. See which brands use the most natural materials.
Annual ReportThe State of Fashion Fabrics: 2026 Report
Fibr's annual analysis of fabric composition across major fashion retailers. We analysed 17,365+ products to reveal how much polyester, cotton, and natural fibre the industry actually uses.
Data & ResearchWhat Is Zara Actually Made Of? We Analyzed 5,226 Products
We broke down the fabric composition of 5,226 Zara products. 28% are polyester-heavy, hoodies are 81% synthetic, and jeans are 99% natural.
Fibr AuditThe Fibr Audit: ASOS — Why Over Half Their Products Are Polyester-Heavy
We analysed 34 ASOS products by fabric composition. 55.9% are polyester-heavy and only 26.5% are 100% natural fibre. Here's what the marketplace is really selling.
Fibr AuditThe Fibr Audit: Bershka — What 9,339 Products Are Really Made Of
We analysed 9,339 Bershka products by fabric composition. Avg natural fibre: 62.7%. See which categories are natural and which are synthetic.
Fibr AuditThe Fibr Audit: Boohoo — Ultra-Fast Fashion, Ultra-Synthetic
We examined Boohoo's fabric composition. Over 70% of garments are primarily synthetic, with dresses and tops near-universally polyester. The full breakdown.
Fibr AuditThe Fibr Audit: H&M — How Much of Your Wardrobe Is Actually Plastic?
We examined H&M's fabric composition using industry data and product analysis. ~22% polyester overall, but 65%+ of garments contain synthetics. The Conscious Collection isn't what you think.
Fibr AuditThe Fibr Audit: Mango — What 2,246 Products Are Really Made Of
We analysed 2,246 Mango products by fabric composition. Avg natural fibre: 59.3%. Mango's Committed Collection isn't as green as the label suggests.
Fibr AuditThe Fibr Audit: Primark — How Cheap Can Clothes Get?
We examined Primark's fabric composition. At the lowest prices in fast fashion, cotton basics hold up — but everything else is overwhelmingly synthetic. Here's the data.
Fibr AuditThe Fibr Audit: Reformation — Does the Sustainability Leader Deliver?
We analysed 399 Reformation products by fabric composition. 52.9% are 100% natural fibre and only 5.3% are polyester-heavy. But the average natural fibre percentage tells a more nuanced story.
Fibr AuditThe Fibr Audit: Shein — 82% Plastic, and It Gets Worse
We examined Shein's fabric composition. 82% of garments are primarily synthetic, dresses are 95-100% polyester, and toxic chemicals have been found at 3,300x EU safety limits.
Fibr AuditThe Fibr Audit: Uniqlo — LifeWear or PlasticWear?
We examined Uniqlo's fabric composition. Cotton basics are genuinely good, but HeatTech, AIRism, and outerwear are near-100% synthetic. Here's the full breakdown.
MaterialsIs Recycled Polyester Actually Sustainable?
Recycled polyester is marketed as eco-friendly, but it still sheds microplastics.
EnvironmentThe Worst Fabrics for the Environment (Ranked)
Which fabrics cause the most environmental damage? Ranked by microplastics, water use, and biodegradability.
Best For
The right fabric for every situationBest 100% Cotton T-Shirts You Can Buy in 2026
Looking for 100% cotton t-shirts? We analysed 1,487 tees across Zara, Bershka, Mango & more. Here's where to find real cotton — not cotton-poly blends.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Baby Clothes: What Paediatricians Actually Recommend
Baby skin is 30% thinner than adult skin. Cotton, bamboo lyocell, and silk are safe. Polyester traps heat and chemicals. Here's what to dress your baby in.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Bed Sheets: Cotton, Linen, or Silk?
You spend 7-9 hours a night in bed sheets. Here's why fabric matters more than thread count — and why polyester sheets are the worst choice for sleep.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Coats and Jackets (That Aren't Plastic)
Zara coats are only 52.1% natural fibre. Here are the best natural fabric options for outerwear — wool, waxed cotton, down — and why most coats are secretly synthetic.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Dresses (And Why Most Are Polyester)
Data shows most dresses from major retailers are polyester-heavy. Here are the best natural fabrics for dresses — cotton, linen, silk, viscose — and how to find them.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Eczema: A Dermatologist-Backed Guide
Evidence-based fabric recommendations for eczema. Studies show 60-70% of eczema patients worsen with synthetics. Here are the fabrics that help — and the ones making flares worse.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Working Out (Natural Alternatives to Polyester)
Natural fabric alternatives for gym and workout clothes — merino wool, TENCEL, and organic cotton for different workout types. Why polyester gym clothes smell and what to wear instead.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Hoodies (Most Are 80%+ Plastic)
Zara hoodies average just 19.1% natural fibre — the worst category we track. Here's why most hoodies are polyester and how to find cotton fleece alternatives.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Jeans: Why Denim Is Fashion's Last Natural Stronghold
Jeans are the most natural-fibre category in fashion — Zara jeans are 99.1% natural, Bershka 98.7%. Here's why denim stays cotton and what to look for.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Kids' Clothing (Beyond Baby Clothes)
A guide to the safest, most comfortable fabrics for toddlers and older kids. Covers chemical safety (formaldehyde, PFAS), durability, and the best natural fibre options.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Loungewear: What to Actually Relax In
You spend hours in loungewear — make sure it's not plastic. Cotton, bamboo, and modal keep you comfortable. Polyester traps heat and breeds bacteria. Here's what to choose.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Men's Basics: T-shirts, Shirts, and Chinos
Men's basics are one of fashion's best-kept fabric secrets — most are already natural fibre. Here's what to look for in t-shirts, shirts, and chinos.
Best ForBest Fabrics to Wear During Pregnancy
What you wear during pregnancy matters — for breathability, comfort, and chemical safety. Here are the best fabrics for pregnancy and which ones to avoid.
Best ForBest Fabrics for School Uniforms: What Parents Should Know
School uniforms are often polyester, stain-resistant, and treated with PFAS. Here's what parents should know about fabric safety and the best natural alternatives.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Sensitive Skin (Eczema, Allergies & Irritation)
If your skin reacts to clothing — itching, rashes, eczema flares — here are the best fabrics to wear and which ones to avoid completely.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Sleepwear: What to Actually Sleep In
You spend 8 hours a night in your sleepwear. Cotton, silk, and Tencel keep you cool and comfortable. Polyester traps heat and breeds bacteria. Here's what to choose.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Summer Dresses That Actually Breathe
The best natural fabrics for summer dresses — linen, cotton voile, silk, and viscose. Why polyester summer dresses trap heat and what to buy instead.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Sweaters: Wool, Cashmere, and Why Acrylic Is a Scam
Bershka sweaters average just 38.2% natural fibre — most 'sweaters' are actually plastic. Here are the best natural fabrics for knitwear and how to avoid acrylic.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Sweating: What to Wear If You Run Hot
If you sweat a lot, your fabric matters more than anything. Here are the best fabrics for heavy sweaters — and which fabrics make sweating worse.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Underwear: What Should Actually Be Against Your Skin
Cotton, silk, and Tencel are the best fabrics for underwear. Polyester and nylon trap heat, breed bacteria, and irritate sensitive areas. Here's the full guide.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Winter (That Aren't Polyester)
The warmest natural fabrics for winter — wool, cashmere, flannel cotton, and more. Why polyester winter coats don't regulate temperature and what to wear instead.
Best ForBest Fabrics for Work Shirts and Office Wear
The best natural fabrics for work shirts and office clothing — cotton poplin, oxford, linen, and wool suiting. Why polyester dress shirts trap heat and smell.
Best ForBest Natural Fibre Athletic Wear: Gym Clothes Without the Plastic
The best natural fibre alternatives to polyester gym clothes — merino wool, TENCEL, organic cotton, and hemp activewear brands tested and ranked by activity.
Best ForBest Natural Fibre Brands (2026 Ranked by Data)
We analysed 17,365+ products to rank fashion brands by actual natural fibre usage. See which brands use the most natural materials — backed by data, not marketing.
Tools
Check fabric before you buyChrome Extension for Checking Clothing Materials While You Shop
Fibr is a free Chrome extension that shows fabric composition on product images while you browse Zara, H&M, and Mango. See what clothes are made of before you buy.
ToolsFabric Composition Checker: How to See What Clothes Are Made Of Online
Check fabric composition while shopping online with Fibr — a free tool that shows what clothes are made of directly on product images. Works on Zara, H&M, Mango and more.
Brands
Fabric breakdowns by retailerZara Fabric Guide
What Zara's clothing is actually made of and how to find the natural fibre pieces.
BrandH&M Fabric Guide
H&M's fabric composition breakdown and where to find quality pieces.
BrandShein Fabric Guide
What Shein's clothes are actually made of. Spoiler: it's mostly polyester.
BrandUniqlo Fabric Guide
Uniqlo's fabric strategy and where they use natural vs synthetic fibres.
BrandPrimark Fabric Guide
What Primark's budget clothing is made of and the natural fibre options.
BrandMango Fabric Guide
Mango's fabric composition and sustainable collections.
BrandBoohoo Fabric Guide
What boohoo's ultra-fast fashion is really made of.
BrandASOS Fabric Guide
ASOS stocks hundreds of brands — here's how to find the natural fibre pieces in the noise.