Image: Pact

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. This post is also sponsored in part by tentree & PAKA. We only add brands & products we truly believe in. Thanks for supporting the brands who are working to make the fashion industry a better place!

Sustainable & Organic Socks and Underwear for Men

It’s incredible how many sustainable brands are making eco-friendly socks and underwear for men today! These are 9 places we think you’ll love, and many of the prices are pretty affordable. Imagine slipping into underwear made from organic cotton or bamboo, materials that not only feel incredible against your skin but also reduce the use of harmful chemicals and water. These sustainable fabrics are not only better for the environment, but they also tend to be more breathable and hypoallergenic, ensuring optimal comfort all day long.

This guide will explore the best eco-friendly men's underwear & sock brands and highlight their dedication to sustainable practices and ethical sourcing.

The Importance of Sustainable Fashion

Sustainable fashion has gained significant traction in recent years, with consumers becoming more conscious of their clothing choices' environmental and social impact. The fashion industry is one of the most significant contributors to pollution and waste. By opting for sustainable options, like eco-friendly men's underwear & socks, you can contribute to a greener future. Sustainable fashion promotes ethical practices, reduces the carbon footprint, and supports fair trade and workers' rights.

What Makes underwear & socks ‘Sustainable’?

Sustainable men's underwear & socks refer to undergarments made using eco-friendly materials and produced sustainably. These brands prioritize using organic, natural, or recycled fabrics, minimize water consumption and chemical usage, and ensure fair working conditions for their employees. Choosing sustainable men's underwear & socks can minimize your environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry. You want your underwear to last through many washes and to stay comfortable through the years, so quality is also essential.

Sustainable Fabrics for Underwear and Socks

The most popular fabric for sustainable underwear & socks is organic cotton, but you can also find great styles in Tencel, Modal, Hemp, Silk, Recycled Polys, and Bamboo. Each of these fabrics has its unique characteristics and creates a different feel. If you prefer ultra-soft, Tencel and Bamboo might be a good fit. If you need more of a performance pair, go for recycled polyester. Organic cotton, grown without toxic synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, is a popular choice. It is soft, breathable, and biodegradable, making it an excellent option for those seeking comfort and sustainability. Hemp, known for its durability, is an excellent fabric for men's underwear. It requires minimal water and grows quickly without the need for pesticides. Hemp fabric is breathable, antimicrobial, and highly resistant to wear and tear. Bamboo is another sustainable material used in men's underwear and socks. This fast-growing plant requires minimal water and no pesticides, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Bamboo fabric is naturally hypoallergenic, moisture-wicking, and odor-resistant, providing comfort and functionality. However, not all bamboo is created equal, so we included brands that use closed-loop processing that continuously recycles solvents and water. Tencel is another favorite fabric for underwear and socks because of its unique silk-like softness.

Whatever you pick from this list, you are choosing a much more sustainable product than what you find in conventional stores!

How to Choose Sustainable Men's Underwear

When selecting sustainable men's underwear and socks, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, look for certifications such as Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) or Oeko-Tex Standard 100, which ensure that the products meet specific environmental and social criteria. These certifications guarantee that the fabrics used are organic (for GOTS), free from harmful substances, and produced under fair working conditions.

It's also essential to consider the brand's commitment to sustainability. Look for information on their supply chain, manufacturing processes, and material sourcing. Brands that prioritize transparency and provide detailed information about their practices are more likely to be genuinely sustainable. Luckily, when it comes to researching a brand, we’ve done a lot of the work for you by providing you with a list of our favorites below!

Lastly, focus on finding the right fit and style for your preferences. Sustainable men's underwear comes in various designs, from briefs to boxers, so choose the style that suits you best. Remember, sustainable underwear can be both functional and fashionable.

Our Top Picks for Sustainable Mens Underwear & Socks:

1. PAKA

Products: Boxer Briefs, Crew Socks, Performance Socks

Price: $20-89 (packs available)

Materials: Alpaca, Recycled Nylon, Tencel

Founded in Peru, PAKA has created a natural, sustainable clothing line for those who love the outdoors. They believe using eco-friendly materials like their super soft Royal Alpaca can connect consumers more to nature and sustainably support small communities.

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2. Pact

Products: Boxer Briefs, Extended Boxer Briefs, Briefs, Trunks, Knit Boxers and Short & Crew Socks

Price: $11-54 (packs available)

Materials: Organic Cotton

If you are looking for affordable socks & underwear made from organic cotton, look no further! Everything made at Pact uses organic cotton and is certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).

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3. tentree

Products: Ankle & Quarter Socks

Price: $10-14 (2 pack)

Materials: Hemp, TENCEL, Recycled Polyester

We love that tentree uses hemp as one of their fibers to create these eco-friendly socks! Plus, for every pair sold, ten trees are planted.

So far, they have planted over 43 MILLION trees, and they are a B Corp and climate-neutral company.

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4. Wama Underwear

Products: Briefs, Boxers, Boxer Briefs & Trunks

Price: $28

Materials: Hemp, Organic Cotton

Protect your private parts naturally! Because of hemp’s moisture-wicking properties, this underwear line is breathable and comfortable. Hemp is also resistant to mold and UV light and retains color better than cotton. It’s also anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, and has anti-odor properties.

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5. Organic Basics

Products: Boxers, Boxer Shorts, Long Johns, Active Boxers and Ankle, Active & Tennis Socks

Price: $12-203 (packs available)

Materials: Organic Cotton, Tencel, Recycled Nylon

This brand uses eco-friendly materials to create ethical, comfortable, design-forward underwear and socks. Committed to transparency, you can check out their yearly impact report outlining their progress and goals. They now even have a low-impact website with a lower carbon footprint than a regular website!

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6. Boody

Products: Boxers, Briefs, No-Show, Ankle, Sports, Sneaker, Boot & Work Socks

Price: $5-72 (packs available)

Materials: Bamboo

This brand has several different styles of boxers and socks for men. Everything is made out of bamboo, which is usually not a fiber we have on the blog, but this particular bamboo is created within a closed-loop system where solvents are constantly recycled.

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7. Patagonia

Products: Boxers, Boxer Briefs, Anklet & Crew Socks

Price: $19-29

Materials: Recycled Nylon, Tencel, Merino

If you are looking for more of a performance sock and underwear, this is the place to go! A lot of their products are moisture-wicking, keeping you more comfy. Patagonia has been a leader in sustainability from the beginning when it was started back in 1973.

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8. Harvest & Mill

Products: Ankle & Crew Socks

Price: $10-60 (packs available)

Materials: Organic Cotton

We LOVE how Harvest & Mill only uses organic cotton grown in the USA! They support American organic cotton farmers and help keep our soil, water, and air clean. It’s one of the few brands using regenerative materials.

Their socks look comfy & practical for every day!

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9. Conscious Step

Products: Ankle & Crew Socks

Price: $14.95

Materials: Organic Cotton

Conscious Step’s entire supply chain is GOTS and Vegan certified. This cotton is never treated with herbicides, insecticides, pesticides and is not genetically modified.

Because about 80% of the world’s organic cotton is grown in India, they have decided to manufacture there to benefit from their expertise and support small cotton farmers. Plus, every pair gives back to a cause you care about!

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With the rise of sustainable fashion, finding eco-friendly and stylish men's underwear & socks that align with your values is easier than ever. You can prioritize your comfort and the planet's well-being by choosing sustainable options. From organic cotton to bamboo and hemp, these materials offer superior comfort while reducing environmental impact. There's no reason to compromise on style with a wide range of brands and designs when making eco-conscious choices. So revamp your underwear drawer with sustainable men's underwear & socks that leave you feeling good inside and out!

You may also want to visit these blog posts:

Women’s Socks

Women’s Underwear

Children’s Socks

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WANT MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS? VISIT OUR BRAND DIRECTORY!

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Image: Girlfriend Collective

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through & make a purchase. This post is also sponsored in part by tentree & PAKA. We only ever add brands & products we truly believe in. Thanks for supporting the brands who are working to make the fashion industry a better place!

The Best SUSTAINABLE SPORTS BRAS For Your WorkOuts

If you are someone who likes being active and regularly works out at home or at the gym, sports bras are essential activewear pieces you probably have in your wardrobe. 

Invented in the 1970s, sports bras are designed to provide support during your workout sessions so that you can move easily and freely without feeling uncomfortable. They are incredibly useful whether you are running, hiking, playing tennis, or doing yoga.  

Sports bras are so comfortable that many women also wear them for running errands or lounging around their homes. They are a lot more enjoyable to wear compared to traditional lingerie bras, which is partly why they have become so popular.

However, most sports bras are made from virgin synthetic fabrics, usually polyester or nylon. Both of these are very practical because they are elastic and have moisture-wicking properties, which is ideal for working out. But they are also among the most unsustainable fabrics we can find. 

If you are trying to live a more eco-friendly and conscious lifestyle, it does not mean you need to stop wearing sports bras altogether. 

In this article, you will learn about 11 ethical brands selling sustainably made sports bras that are both comfortable and supportive. 

WHAT MAKES A SPORTS BRA SUSTAINABLE?

A sustainable sports bra is always durable and made to last. It is an essential factor because you need to wash it regularly, after every workout session, so it should be designed to stand the test of time. 

An eco-friendly sports bra is also made by a brand committed to the well-being of the workers in its supply chain. Workers should be paid a fair living wage and work under ethical conditions in a safe environment. 

The brand also needs to be transparent about where and how it produces its products, and use sustainable fabrics and non-toxic, eco-friendly dyes to make its sports bras. It is even better if the fabric is certified Oeko-Tex Standard 100, which means that it is free of harmful chemicals.  

Finally, make sure that the sports bra fits you, is comfortable, and provides the support and coverage you need. That way, you will be more likely to use it for a long time, making it even more sustainable.  

WHAT ECO-FRIENDLY FABRICS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

Most brands selling sustainable sports bras make them out of recycled polyester or recycled nylon. Both are sustainable fabrics as they are produced by turning plastic waste into new products. However, they are not ideal because they can still shed microplastics in the wash. 

You can also choose sports bras made of natural fabrics, like organic cotton or responsibly-sourced bamboo fabric. These will usually be mixed with a bit of spandex for stretch though, but they are still great sustainable options. 

OUR TOP PICKS FOR SUSTAINABLE, COMFORTABLE & SUPPORTIVE SPORTS BRAS:

1. PAKA

Materials: Royal Alpaca, Tencel, Organic Cotton

Price: $35

Sizes: XS-XXL

Founded in Peru, PAKA has created a natural, sustainable clothing line for those who love the outdoors.

They believe using eco-friendly materials like their super soft Royal Alpaca can connect consumers more to nature and sustainably support small communities.

Their products are fully traceable from the fiber source, each product features a QR that shows the consumer the farm where the fiber was harvested.

Even the dyes are environmentally friendly (OEKO-TEX & GOTS certified), and the packaging is biodegradable.

We love that PAKA is a certified B-Corp that works hard to create a better, sustainable future for the fashion industry!

Their Alpaca Bralette is lightweight and super soft, and anti-microbial & odor-resistant. You can find it in four beautiful colors: Forage (pictured), Black, Quail and Birch.

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2. tentree

Materials: Recycled Polyester, Elastane

Price: $27-48

Sizes: XS-XL

tentree sells all kinds of clothes for women, men and children, all made under fair and safe working conditions and using only recycled and sustainably sourced materials. 

Its InMotion collection has a couple of classic sports bras, available in different colors. Their fabric is very soft and made from recycled polyester in a closed-loop system that recycles post-consumer garments. 

tentree’s Double Scoop bra features scooped front and back necklines and an encased elastic hem. We also recommend the InMotion Mesh Insert bra top, which has a racerback construction with cool mesh details and a scooped front neckline. 

The brand is very transparent about its carbon footprint at every stage of its supply chain, and it ships its products in 100% recycled plastic mailers. 

tentree is also climate-neutral certified and a Certified B Corporation, and it plants 10 trees for every purchase. So far, it has planted more than 81 million trees! 

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3. Boody

Materials: Bamboo Viscose, Nylon, Organic Cotton

Price: $46-50

Sizes: XS-XL

Boody sells sustainably produced, comfy clothing essentials all made with bamboo. The brand has two sports bras, both of which provide medium support and removable padding. 

They are made of viscose derived from organically-grown bamboo, but the Active Longline bra also contains a bit of organic cotton.

The bamboo Boody uses is produced without fertilizers, pesticides or artificial irrigation, and it comes from FSC-certified forests. It is grown using rainwater and all the water used is recycled and reused. 

The fabric also has thermo-regulating properties, and it is soft, breathable and odor-resistant. Exactly what we need when wearing a sports bra! 

Boody is a B Corp certified business and it only works with factories that are Fair Trade certified. The factories use innovative computer knitting machines to create the garments, thus minimizing fabric wastage. 

The brand also supports non-profit organizations helping victims of domestic violence and aiming to eliminate malaria in South Africa.

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4. Patagonia

Materials: Recycled Polyester, Recycled Nylon, Polyester, Nylon, Spandex

Price: $49-69

Sizes: XS-XL

Patagonia is a sustainable fashion brand selling outdoor gear and clothes for women, men, children, and babies. It makes everything with comfort, performance, and the planet in mind. 

The company has several sports bras, each of which has a different style and cut.

You can choose between bras featuring a racerback construction, cross-back straps, or a crossover front design.  

Patagonia’s sports bras are also sold in different solid colors and patterns. From low to high-impact activities, they provide the support you need whether you are at the gym, hiking, or doing yoga. 

All of them are made of recycled polyester produced from plastic water bottles. The Cross Beta sports bra also contains recycled nylon made using post-industrial waste fiber, fishing nets, and leftover material from weaving mills. 

The brand is extremely transparent about where its clothing is made. For instance, its sports bras are produced in Sri Lanka, but their fabric comes from Taiwan. 

Patagonia is a certified B Corp and a California benefit corporation, and it has been a member of 1% For The Planet since 1985. It even launched a platform where you can buy used Patagonia clothing!

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5. Girlfriend Collective

Materials: Recycled Plastic Bottles, Spandex

Price: $26-58

Sizes: XXS-6XL

Girlfriend Collective is an ethical activewear brand crafting workout clothes using recycled materials, like recycled plastic and fabric scraps. 

It has a huge variety of sports bras designed for different types of workouts, from low to high-impact activities. You get to choose between various cuts, necklines, straps, and colors. 

All the bras are made from post-consumer recycled plastic bottles and dyed using eco-friendly dyes. The fabric is also certified Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex, meaning that it is free of harmful substances.

With sizes ranging from XXS to 6XL, the brand is incredibly size-inclusive! It has also taken many steps to minimize its environmental footprint. For instance, it donates the dye mud created during the dyeing process to a local pavement facility to turn it into roads and sidewalks. 

All its shipping packaging is 100% recycled, and once you are done with them, you can send back your worn-out Girlfriend Collective sports bras and the company will recycle them into new clothing. 

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6. Silverwind

Materials: RPET, Recycled Plastic Bottles

Price: $27-54

Sizes: XS-6XL

We love finding more ethically-minded brands with larger size runs, and the prints at Silverwind (a UK-based brand) are absolutely beautiful!

From butterflies to floral prints, there is something for every susty girlie!

Each sports bra is made from recycled waste, helping keep plastic out of landfills. Plus, they use 100% compostable mailers for shipping!

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7. Wolven

Materials: Recycled Polyester, Spandex

Price: $30-68

Sizes: XS-XXL

Founded by artists, Wolven creates beautiful clothing featuring bold patterns inspired by nature and different cultures. So if you think solid colors are boring and love incorporating prints in your wardrobe, this brand is for you!

Its sports bras are designed in many styles and cuts. Many of them are even reversible, which means that you can wear them in up to four different ways. 

Wolven makes its sports bras from recycled polyester, using between 10 and 20 discarded water bottles depending on the model. The fabric is very breathable, odor-resistant and soft to the touch, and it is made to dry quickly. It is also certified Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex so it is completely safe to wear, and it features a vegan suede finish. 

The company is climate-neutral certified and a member of 1% For The Planet. It also partners with several organizations that help clean our oceans and waterways. 

Wolven even launched a platform where you can buy pre-loved sports bras, so check if you can get one from there first!

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8. Elle Evans

Materials: Recycled Nylon

Price: $55-62

Sizes: XXS-3XL

Elle Evans is a sustainable swimwear brand that also sells activewear, including two lovely sports bras. It crafts its clothes from the same fabric as its swimwear, which means that you can use the sports bras as supportive bikini tops as well. 

The bras are made of 100% ECONYL® produced from recycled nylon waste reclaimed from the oceans, and they are dyed using water-based, non-toxic inks. 

The Lila yoga bra is available in five colors, but if you like to regularly change your looks, you should definitely choose the Flora reversible sports bra as you can switch between print and color whenever you want. 

Both bras are made to order, so they are produced only after you have purchased them, which prevents overproduction and minimizes textile waste. 

Elle Evans reuses leftover scraps of fabric to turn them into frills or straps and incorporates them into its swimsuits. The brand also ships its products using a carbon-neutral service and donates 1% of all sales to Healthy Seas, which specializes in ocean conservation. 

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9. Threads 4 Thought

Materials: Recycled Polyester, Spandex

Price: $48-58

Sizes: XS-3XL

Threads 4 Thought designs casual clothing and activewear for women, men and children. It has a great selection of sports bras that are both supportive and stylish at the same time. They are great for high-intensity workouts as well as yoga and lounging. 

They are all made from recycled plastic bottles with a bit of spandex.

The brand also offsets its entire carbon footprint, making them completely carbon-neutral! 

Threads 4 Thought offers a wide range of colors and prints, with some of its sports bras sold in more than ten colors. The company dyes its clothes with Bluesign-certified dyes and uses an innovative dyeing technology that reduces water consumption by 95% and eliminates all harmful substances. 

The company also sends its clothes using FSC-certified packing materials and compostable bags, and its main factory reuses and recycles 80% of all its industrial wastewater, which is one of the highest rates in the industry.

10. Yoga Democracy

Materials: Recycled Polyester, Recycled Nylon 

Price: $44-62

Sizes: XS-XL

Yoga Democracy designs high-quality tops and bottoms for yogis and other sports enthusiasts. It has a large selection of sports bras that provide medium support for your workouts. They are all made from post-consumer plastic, including recycled water bottles and rescued fishing nets. 

Made in the USA, the brand’s bras are available in different styles, many solid colors, as well as various prints inspired by nature and geometric patterns.

You can even get your hands on some unique designs like sports bras featuring feminist news or fun jellyfish. 

The fabrics are printed using an eco-friendly, no-water dyeing process that is non-toxic and cuts down on waste. Yoga Democracy also reuses all scraps of materials created in the production process and turns them into new products. 

The brand is a member of 1% For The Planet, and it donates a portion of its proceeds to a couple of non-profit organizations. 

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11. Wild About Collective

Materials: Recycled Nylon

Price: $99

Sizes: S-L

Wild About is a sustainable athleisure brand that turns trash into beautiful, functional clothing pieces. It sells a supportive sports bra that you can wear at the gym, when you are out and about, or simply for lounging at home. The Gold Dust bra features practical removable cups. Its buttery soft fabric is made of ECONYL®️, produced from pre- and post-industrial nylon waste like rescued finishing nets and other plastic waste found in oceans and landfills. 

Wild About’s bra is designed in three different colors: you can choose between black, navy blue, and green. You will love the little gold detailing it has around the rib area and at the straps! 

Committed to ethical manufacturing, the brand works with a factory that is WRAP certified and a member of SEDEX, which is one of the world’s leading ethical trade organizations. 

Wild About also offsets its carbon footprint and ships its products in packaging made from 100% recycled plastic. 

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About the Author

Eva Astoul is a French freelance writer, specializing in content related to sustainability, simple living, and a growth-focused healthy lifestyle. She runs her own blog, Green With Less, to inspire people to live a more minimalist and sustainable life.

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WANT MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS? VISIT OUR BRAND DIRECTORY!

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Image: Conscious Step

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only ever add brands & products we truly believe in. This post is also sponsored in part by tentree & PAKA. Thank you for supporting the brands who are making the fashion industry a better place!

Step into Sustainability:

How Sustainable Socks are Revolutionizing the Fashion Industry

The fashion industry is embracing sustainability in every aspect, and it's no surprise that sustainable socks have taken the lead in this revolution. Not just a convenient accessory to keep our feet cozy, socks are becoming a statement of environmental responsibility and conscious fashion choices.

These sustainable socks are made from eco-friendly materials, such as organic cotton, Tencel, or recycled fibers, reducing the carbon footprint of production. With a focus on fair manufacturing processes, these socks are produced in ethical factories and often support local communities.

But it's not just about the materials and manufacturing; sustainable socks also bring style to sustainability. There is a wide range of options, from bold patterns and vibrant colors to trendy designs and cozy textures.

By opting for sustainable socks, you can contribute to reducing waste, conserving natural resources, and supporting brands that prioritize ethical practices. It's time to step into sustainability and make a positive impact on the environment, one pair of socks at a time.

The Importance of Sustainability in the Fashion Industry

The fashion industry has long been criticized for its negative environmental and human rights impact. From harmful chemicals used in textile production to exploitative labor practices, the industry has faced growing scrutiny. However, there has been a significant shift towards sustainability in recent years. Brands and consumers recognize the importance of making conscious fashion choices that prioritize the planet and its people.

Sustainable fashion aims to reduce the industry's impact on the environment and promote ethical practices throughout the supply chain. By opting for sustainable products, consumers can support brands committed to reducing waste, conserving resources, and protecting workers' rights. Sustainable socks are just one example of how the fashion industry embraces sustainability and drives positive change.

You can read more about sustainable fashion here.

What are Sustainable Socks?

Sustainable socks are made from materials and manufactured using processes that have minimal environmental impact. These socks are typically produced using eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, tencel, or recycled fibers. These materials are chosen for their sustainability credentials, as they require fewer resources and have a lower carbon footprint than conventional materials.

In addition to the materials used, sustainable socks are often produced in ethical factories, prioritizing workers' rights and providing fair wages. By opting for sustainable socks, consumers can be confident that their fashion choices align with their values.

Benefits of Sustainable Socks

Choosing sustainable socks has many benefits for both the environment and the consumer. Firstly, sustainable socks help to reduce waste and conserve natural resources. By using eco-friendly materials and manufacturing processes, these socks minimize the environmental impact of traditional sock production.

Secondly, sustainable socks are often more durable and long-lasting than conventional socks. Using high-quality materials and ethical manufacturing practices ensures these socks are built to last. This reduces the need for frequent replacements and saves consumers money in the long run.

Finally, sustainable socks allow individuals to support brands that prioritize ethical practices. By purchasing from these brands, consumers can contribute to the demand for sustainable fashion and drive positive change within the industry.

How To Tell If Your Socks Are Sustainable

There are a few ways to tell if a pair of socks you are about to purchase is indeed sustainable. Are they made from organic cotton or other eco-friendly materials? Are they ethically produced and manufactured responsibly? Are they made to last you many, many wears? This process of questions may be overwhelming for most, which is why we put this great list of eco-friendly, sustainable socks together for you!

Most of these brands use organic cotton, with a few exceptions, but all are sustainably made, comfy & relatively affordable. So whether you are looking for performance socks for your morning runs or cute socks to pair with your sustainable outfits, there is something for everyone & everything in this list. We’ve highlighted the materials, & what makes these socks so sustainable!

our top picks for organic & sustainable socks:

1. PAKA

Categories: Ankle, Crew, Performance

Materials: Alpaca, Tencel, Recycled Nylon

Price: $20 - 89(6-pack)

Founded in Peru, PAKA has created a natural, sustainable clothing line for those who love the outdoors. Their products are fully traceable from the fiber source, each product features a QR that shows the consumer the farm where the fiber was harvested. The range of socks look incredibly comfy and perfect for your next adventure!

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2. Pact

Categories: No-Show, Ankle, Crew

Materials: Organic Cotton

Price: $14 - 24(3-pack)

Everything made at Pact uses organic cotton and is certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).

Pact also offers you the option to offset your shipment’s carbon footprint, making shopping with them even more eco-friendly.

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3. tentree

Categories: Ankle, Quarter, Sweat

Materials: Hemp, Tencel, Recycled Poly

Price: $10-14(2-packs)

tentree offers both ankle and quarter socks in two packs. We love that they use hemp as one of their fibers to create these eco-friendly socks. Plus, for every pair sold, ten trees are planted. So far, they have planted over 43 MILLION trees, and they are a B Corp and climate-neutral company.

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4. Organic Basics

Materials: Organic Cotton, Recycled Wool, Recycled Denim

Price: $17 - 68(10-pack)

Organic Basics are masters in minimalism, with simple designs and monochrome color ways. They only work with certified factories that ensure their workers are paid a living wage and can work in a safe environment with additional benefits like free childcare and lunches.

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5. Colorful Standard

Materials: Organic Cotton, Recycled Wool

Price: $14

If you are looking for a sustainable alternative to American Apparel, this will be your stop! Colorful Standard’s styles come in about 20 different colors, and they are Oeko-Tex® certified dyed, and PETA approved. Choose from Organic Active Socks, Organic Socks & Merino Wool Socks.

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6. Kotn

Materials: Cotton

Price: $12

Canadian-based clothing brand Kotn creates timeless essentials from Egyptian cotton.

They work with family-run farms in Portugal and Egypt, ensuring direct-trade practices, fair pay, and safe working conditions for the people involved in their supply chain.

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7. Boody

Categories: Liner, Crew, Ankle, Quarter, Knee

Materials: Bamboo

Price: $10-18

While not all bamboo is created equal, Boody uses a closed-loop system that recycles water and solvents. This brand believes change starts from the ground up. Their collection of socks is made from sustainably grown bamboo viscose that is easy on the planet and their bodies.

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7. Patagonia

Categories: Anklet, Quarter, Knee, Crew

Materials: Performance Merino, Recycled Polyester, Hemp

Price: $19-32

If you are more of an outdoors person and love hiking, then Patagonia’s performance socks are perfect for you. The brand offers a wide range of outdoor clothing and gear and has long been a trailblazer in the sustainable fashion movement.

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8. Harvest & Mill

Categories: Ankle, Crew

Materials: Organic Cotton

Price: $11 - 66(6-pack)

This awesome brand was born out of a need for locally sewn and USA-grown organic clothing. They knew there was a better way to make clothing and wanted to support USA organic cotton farmers, American heritage mills, and their local sewing community.

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9. Conscious Step

Categories: Crew, Quarter, Ankle

Materials: Organic Cotton

Price: $14 - 45(3-pack)

Conscious Step’s entire supply chain is GOTS and Vegan certified. With each Conscious Step purchase, a portion of the proceeds is donated to the charity associated with that pair of socks. They have so many great causes to choose from!

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10. Q for Quinn

Materials: Organic Cotton

Price: $8 - 24

Q for Quinn is a sustainable, non-toxic and GOTS (Global Organic Textiles Standard) certified brand that is committed to creating basics that are gentle on our skin, our planet and our communities. Developed in an effort to create safe clothing for babies and children, the brand has kids' and grown-up basics for ultimate comfort including seamless socks. Q for Quinn goes above and beyond, donating a school meal (with every item sold) through Mary's Meals. 

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Tips for Caring for Sustainable Socks

To care for your sustainable socks, follow the care instructions the brand provides. Washing them at lower temperatures and air-drying them will help maintain their quality and extend their lifespan. Avoid using bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the fibers and reduce the socks' sustainability.

By choosing and caring for sustainable socks, consumers can maximize their environmental impact and ensure that their fashion choices align with their values.

You may also be searching for…

Men’s Socks

Children’s Socks

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WANT MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS? VISIT OUR BRAND DIRECTORY!

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Image: Full Circle Home

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. This post is also sponsored in part by Earth Breeze. We only ever add brands & products we truly believe in. Thank you for supporting the brands who are making the cleaning industry a better place!

THE BEST Eco-Friendly & SUSTAINABLE CLEANING PRODUCTS

Now that spring is finally here, you probably want to spring clean your home to start the season fresh. However, do not immediately go to the store to stock up on all kinds of conventional cleaning products.

Almost all of them are full of hazardous chemicals that can cause serious and even life-threatening health issues in the long run! They are also incredibly toxic to aquatic ecosystems and the local environment if they end up in waterways and nature.

Conventional cleaning products are also almost always packaged in plastic or are disposable, which contributes to the global waste problem we are facing all around the world. 

Thankfully, you can easily stay away from conventional cleaners by choosing healthy, eco-friendly products. 

In this article, we have rounded up 17 sustainable cleaning brands selling non-toxic products that will help you have a sparkling clean home. They will become your new partners in grime! 

WHAT MAKES CLEANING PRODUCTS SUSTAINABLE & Non-Toxic?

Sustainable & non-toxic cleaning products are above anything else formulated with safe, non-toxic ingredients, all of which have to be disclosed on the brand’s website. 

They also come in eco-friendly packaging that can be reused, recycled, or composted. Aluminum, cardboard, or glass are great packaging options, but see if you can also buy product refills to minimize waste. Plus, try not to buy disposable wipes or other single-use products. 

If you are looking for sustainable cleaning tools, like brooms or sponges, make sure they are made with eco-friendly materials as well.  

Also, consider supporting brands that received third-party certifications, like B Corp, Climate-Neutral, or MADE SAFE. 

WHAT ECO-FRIENDLY INGREDIENTS AND MATERIALS SHOULD YOU SEARCH FOR?

Sustainable cleaning products are usually formulated with natural and biodegradable ingredients, such as baking soda, vinegar, essential oils, or other mineral and plant-based components. Make sure the ingredients are listed on the EPA Safer Chemical Ingredients List. 

The products should be free of toxic substances like phthalates, phosphates, petroleum-based ingredients, and many others. In general, stay away from cleaners on which you can read “corrosive”, “caution” or any other warning labels. 

Sustainable cleaning tools are made with eco-friendly materials, like recycled plastic, sustainably-harvested wood or bamboo, natural rubber, cellulose, or any other types of natural materials. 

NOW, OUR TOP PICKS FOR NON-TOXIC, SUSTAINABLE CLEANING PRODUCTS

1. Public Goods

Categories: Laundry Detergents, Fabric Softeners, Dish Soaps, Dishwasher Detergents, Surface Cleaners, Bathroom Cleaners, Glass Cleaners, Cleaning Tools

Price: $3-47

Public Goods has a large selection of cleaning products and cleaning tools, all of which are very affordable.

You can find laundry and dishwasher detergent pods, different kinds of cleaners, fabric softener sheets, liquid dish soap, as well as compostable trash bags, and walnut-based scrubber sponges.

Public Goods even sells organic castile soap, which can be used to clean everything around the home, from clothes to surfaces to dishes!

All the products are formulated with safe, non-toxic ingredients and are free of sulfates, parabens, and other harmful chemicals. The bottles are also made from 100% recycled plastic, every shipment is carbon-neutral, and the brand plants a tree for every order placed.

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2. Earth Breeze

Categories: Laundry Detergent

Price: $12-20

Earth Breeze's laundry detergent eco sheets are a fantastic alternative to conventional heavy plastic jug laundry detergents! Those plastics can take hundreds of years to decompose, but Earth Breeze packages its detergent in cardboard (which saves you a load of space, too).

We love that they come in a sheet form because no liquid mess or extra waste is created.

And don't let this small sheet fool you - over 2 million people have switched to this brand because of their performance. Eco Sheets can be used in any machine and are concentrated, premeasured, and low-sudsing. They are also Paraben Free, Vegan & Cruelty-Free, Bleach & Dye Free, Phthalate Free, and Phosphate Free. Plus, each purchase donates 10 loads to those in need - over 100 million loads have been donated so far!

Choose from either a Fresh Scent or Unscented, along with how many packages you need a month, and rest easy knowing you won't need to make an unnecessary run to the store for detergent! 

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3. Blueland

Categories: Multi-Surface Cleaners, Hand Soaps, Dishwasher Tablets, Laundry Detergent Tablets, Toilet Bowl Cleaners, Sponges, Cloths

Price: $7-89

Blueland is on a mission to reinvent household products to end single-use plastic waste. Its products are all refillable, which means that you buy the bottle once and you then only need to purchase the refills. It offers different types of cleaners, powder dish soap, laundry detergent tablets, dishwasher tablets, and foaming hand soap.

All of them are formulated without water, so each product is lighter and smaller, which significantly reduces the environmental impact of shipping! 

Blueland only uses ingredients that are on the EPA Safer Chemical Ingredients List, and all of them are vegan and cruelty-free. 

The brand is also Climate-Neutral and B Corp certified, and all its products and packaging received the Cradle To Cradle certification. 

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4. Green Eco Dream

Categories: Dishwashing Products, Laundry Detergents, All-Purpose Cleaners, Bleach Alternatives, Cleaning Tools

Price: $5-95

Green Eco Dream is a sustainable marketplace with all kinds of zero-waste essentials. It carries many eco-friendly brands and their cleaning products. You can buy anything from all-purpose cleaners, laundry detergent sheets, solid dish blocks, sustainable bleach alternatives, and many more. 

You can also stock up on some practical cleaning tools, like reusable paper towels, bamboo brushes, latex gloves, compostable trash bags, and sponges. Green Eco Dream even sells a microfiber-catching laundry ball made from recycled plastic! 

The shop is a member of the Sierra Club and 1% For The Planet, and it is carbon-neutral and a Green America-certified business. It also ships its products without plastic and regularly supports the non-profit Clean Miami Beach!

use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC10 for 10% off your purchase

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5. Dropps

Categories: Laundry Detergents, Fabric Softeners, Dishwasher Detergents, Dish Sprays, Air & Fabric Fresheners, Hand Soaps, Cleaning Tools

Price: $8-84

Dropps is one of the best zero-waste cleaning brands you can find! It has everything you may need, from different laundry detergents to dish sprays to all kinds of cleaning tools.

Its detergents are encased in a water-soluble pod that dissolves upon contact with water.

Their ultra-concentrated formulas are completely free of harmful ingredients and are formulated with plant and mineral-based ingredients. 

Dropps discloses all its ingredients, so you know exactly what you are buying! 

The brand even sells all-natural cellulose sponges, Swedish dishcloths made from FSC-certified cellulose and repurposed cotton, wool dryer balls, and different kitchen brushes made of bamboo, sisal, and coconut fibers.  

Dropps is also a certified B Corp, and it offers carbon-neutral shipping using plastic-free packaging. 

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6. Plastno

Categories: Trash Bags

Price: $18 for 30 Tall Bags

If we already say no to plastic straws and cups, why not trash bags, too? Plastno makes it simple to 'just say no' with super strong, fully biodegradable garbage bags for our home. Put simply, their compostable trash bags are made from plant-based materials that break down naturally in weeks. The best part is they're just as tough as regular old trash bags, just without the plastic.

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7. Tru Earth

Categories: Laundry Detergents, Fabric Softeners, Dishwasher Detergent Tablets, Multi-Surface Cleaners, Toilet Bowl Cleaners, Cleaning Tools

Price: $10-164

Tru Earth is an eco-friendly laundry detergent brand selling ultra-concentrated laundry detergent sheets. These are free of parabens, phosphates, added dyes, bleach, and other toxic chemicals. You can choose between different scents, and it even has laundry sheets specially formulated for baby clothes!

The strips are biodegradable and dissolve quickly in both cold and hot water.

Tru Earth also offers dishwasher detergent tablets, toilet bowl cleaners, multi-surface cleaners, as well as compostable sponges and dishcloths.

The formulas are 100% vegan and cruelty-free, and you can find a list of all the ingredients used on the company’s website.

The strips are shipped in a recyclable cardboard sleeve, and so far, Tru Earth has donated over 21 million laundry strips to food banks and people in need!

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8. Grove Collaborative

Categories: Dish Soaps, Multi-Purpose Cleaners, Toilet Cleaners, Hand Soaps, Laundry Detergents, Floor Cleaners, Bathroom Cleaners, Stain Remover Sprays, Cleaning Tools

Price: $2-90

Grove Collaborative has a huge selection of non-toxic household products, including approximately 300 cleaning products and tools from various sustainable brands. All the products are ethically produced, cruelty-free, and healthy to use! 

The company makes sure to only sell products made with plant-based formulas. They only contain essential oils and other botanical-based ingredients, all of which are disclosed on the website.  

From floor cleaners to dish soaps, you can find everything you may need for a sparkling clean home. Grove Collaborative even has eco-friendly toilet brushes, sponges, dishcloths, as well as trash bags made from 100% recycled plastic. 

The company is also B Corp certified, and every shipment is carbon-neutral! 

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9. Zero Waste Store

Categories: Dishwashing Soaps, Laundry Products, Cleaning Sprays and Powders, Hand Soaps, Stone Cleaners, Cleaning Tools

Price: $4-73

Zero Waste Store is a one-stop shop for every zero-waste swap you may need! It carries many sustainable brands, including some selling all-natural cleaning products.

You can choose between many laundry products including laundry detergent sheets, liquid laundry soap or detergent, laundry paste, and stain remover sticks. 

The company also sells many cleaning sprays and powders, hand soaps, and dishwashing liquid and solid soaps. It even has a granite disinfectant and many cleaning tools, such as brushes, sponges, Swedish dishcloths, scourers made from coconut waste, and washable mop covers.

Zero Waste Store is a member of 1% For The Planet, and it ships everything in plastic-free packaging. It also regularly supports and makes donations to wildlife and conservation groups. 

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10. Kind Laundry

Categories: Laundry Detergents, Stain Removers, Dryer Balls

Price: $6-20

Kind Laundry sells eco-friendly, plant-derived laundry detergent strips as an alternative to traditional powder and liquid detergents. 

Both the fragrance-free and scented versions are only formulated with a few simple ingredients, all of which are non-toxic and disclosed on the website!

The strips are pre-cut and pre-measured so you know exactly how much to use per load of laundry, and they work in all water temperatures.

Kind Laundry also has a vegan stain remover bar that is ideal to remove all types of stains, from coffee to tomato sauce. If you have a tumble dryer, get your hands on the brand’s 100% pure wool dryer balls: they will reduce the drying time by up to 25%, which will save energy! 

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11. Meliora

Categories: Cleaning Scrubs, Laundry Powders, Hand Soaps, Bleach Alternatives, All-Purpose Cleaning Sprays, Dish Soaps, Stain Removers, Rags

Price: $5-400

Meliora sells sustainable home cleaning and laundry products, all of which are Leaping-Bunny certified.  The company formulates its products using only a short list of natural ingredients, such as baking soda, soap made from organic coconut and sunflower oil, sodium percarbonate, washing soda, organic essential oils, and glycerin produced as a byproduct of soapmaking. 

Meliora offers all-purpose cleaners, dish soaps, laundry powders, bleach alternatives, and even rags made from repurposed organic cotton diapers. 

The brand is a B Corporation and a member of 1% For The Planet, and all its products are MADE SAFE certified and rated A by the Environmental Working Group. 

Meliora also uses compostable or recyclable packaging, and you can even buy some products in bulk in a bucket that you can ship back (for free) for it to be reused. 

use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC for 10% off your purchase

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12. Full Circle Home

Categories: Cleaning Tools & Accessories

Price: $4-130

Among all the cleaning brands on this list, this one has the largest and most complete selection of cleaning tools and accessories! 

Full Circle Home is a certified B Corporation making practical and aesthetically pleasing home care products using long-lasting, sustainable materials. 

You get to choose from many products made of bamboo and recycled plastic, including dusters and mops with a washable head, dustpans and brushes, brooms, and even a pivoting squeegee. 

Full Circle Home also sells absorbent cleaning cloths made from bamboo or post-production recycled fibers, dish brushes, compostable trash bags, sponges and scrubbers made from recycled plastic or coconut husks, a recycled pan scraper, and latex cleaning gloves. 

For every ounce of plastic the brand uses, it collects the same amount from waterways and recycles it in partnership with Plastic Bank. 

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13. Cleancult

Categories: Dish Soaps, All-Purpose Cleaners, Hand Soaps, Laundry Detergents, Dishwasher Tablets 

Price: $6-65

Cleancult is a sustainable cleaning brand that has created a smart refill system for cleaning products. 

From all-purpose cleaners to laundry detergents, all of its refills are sold in FSC-certified paper-based cartons that are 100% recyclable.

The formulas are free of toxic substances like phthalates, petroleum-based ingredients, phosphates, dyes, SLES, and SLS. 

All the products are also cruelty-free and Leaping-Bunny certified, and you can choose between different all-natural scents that will remind you of nature. 

If you do not already have a spray bottle at home, Cleancult sells several kinds of reusable, shatter-resistant glass bottles with a protective silicone base to prevent them from breaking. 

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14. No Tox Life

Categories: Dish Soaps, Kitchen Brushes, Sponges

Price: $6-46

No Tox Life is a small family-run business selling vegan body care and home cleaning products. 

The brand has a concentrated solid dishwashing soap that efficiently cleans grime and grease on your dishes and kitchen surfaces. You can also use it to clean other areas of your home or to take stains out of laundry. 

The dish soap is formulated with biodegradable ingredients (without artificial fragrance), all of which are disclosed on the product’s page.  

No Tox Life also sells different cleaning tools like bamboo dish brushes with replacement heads and machine-washable Nordic dish sponges that are 100% home-compostable. It even has a vegetable cleaning brush made from bamboo and agave fibers. 

The brand produces everything in small batches and ships its products in plastic-free packaging. 

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15. If You Care

Categories: Dishwasher Tablets, Cleaning Tools & Accessories

Price: $5-20

If You Care creates sustainable kitchen and cleaning essentials for the eco-friendly home.

It has non-toxic dishwasher tablets formulated with a blend of mineral and plant-derived ingredients.

These are biodegradable and completely free of phosphates and chlorine. 

You can also buy cleaning gloves made of FSC-certified latex, compostable sponge cloths, reusable paper towels, and different sizes of compostable trash bags produced from non-GMO potato starch.

If You Care even has beautiful dish towels crafted in small batches from reclaimed surplus fabrics! 

The brand uses unbleached recycled cardboard or paper packaging for all its products. It also received the Green Seal certification for its commitment to creating sustainable and healthy products. 

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16. Lovett Sundries

Categories: Cleaning Sprays, Laundry Soaps, Dishwasher Powders, Dish Soaps, Air & Fabric Fresheners, Cast Iron Cleaners

Price: $9-20

Lovett Sundries is a family-owned brand making affordable personal care and home cleaning products, all of which are handcrafted in small batches.  The company sells several cleaning products, including a countertop spray, an unscented laundry soap, dishwasher powder, a solid dish soap, and an air and fabric freshener made with lavender essential oil. 

It even has a cast iron conditioner and a wooden cast iron scraper that you can use to clean and scrub your cast iron pans! 

Lovett Sundries formulates all of these products with no more than four simple, all-natural ingredients. They are packaged in recycled kraft paper boxes, aluminum, and glass; the only plastic bits are the small spray pumps! 

use code SUSTAINABLYCHIC for 10% off your order

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17. Bestowed Essentials

Categories: Laundry Detergent Powder, Dish Soap, Stain Remover Stick

Price: $5-16

Bestowed Essentials sells vegan home and body products that are all ethically handmade in the United States. It offers three cleaning products, all of which contain no more than six simple, natural ingredients. For instance, the brand’s non-toxic laundry powder is only made with baking soda, washing soda, and sodium percarbonate. Yet, it cleans your clothes very efficiently!

You can also buy Bestowed Essentials’ solid dish soap for your dishwashing routine, or its stain remover stick to eliminate all types of stains from your clothes!

The brand never tests on animals, and its products are either sold in plastic-free packaging or unpackaged. Bestowed Essentials also offers carbon-neutral shipping, and it regularly supports local non-profit organizations.

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About the Author

Eva Astoul is a French freelance writer, specializing in content related to sustainability, simple living, and a growth-focused healthy lifestyle. She runs her own blog, Green With Less, to inspire people to live a more minimalist and sustainable life.

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WANT MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS? VISIT OUR BRAND DIRECTORY!

Our Brand Directory is home to hundreds of sustainable brands, from makeup to cleaning supplies, from underwear to shoes. We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.

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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliated; we may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We only add brands & products we truly believe in. Thanks for supporting the brands who are working to make the fashion industry a better place!

Sustainable Brands That Empower Women

Women keep the fashion industry running – we create trends, design collections and model them for the public. However often, we forget about some of the most important women in the fashion industry; the women who make our clothes. Too often, these women are disempowered and even exploited, so it’s worth supporting brands that instead actively empower women in fashion. Let’s explore some of these brands, and why they matter!

Who are the women behind our clothes, and where are they?

Around the world, it’s estimated that 74 million people work creating textiles and garments. Of these people, about 80% of them are women of color. Women of color – especially Black women – are often at the forefront of fashion when it comes to the evolution of style, and often this is not acknowledged by the industry or society. Similarly, it’s barely acknowledged that fashion intersects with issues of feminism and racism, because of the way that women making our clothes are treated.

Most garments around the world are made in China, Bangladesh and India. While the exploitation of garment workers can and does take place across the globe, the intensity of production in these places – and the impact of capitalism and colonialism on them – puts women in these places at a higher risk. 

What problems do the women who make our clothes face?

Many garment workers today create clothing in what are considered ‘modern-day slavery conditions’. Modern-day slavery looks different from slavery experienced in recent history, but it is slavery all the same. It is the severe exploitation of other people for personal or commercial gain and normally occurs hidden from the world’s view. Today, a shocking 1 in 200 people face modern slavery, with women and girls making up 71% of these people. More than half of these people are forced into labor, often making our clothes. 

In 2013, a building in Bangladesh called Rana Plaza collapsed, killing 1,134 people and injuring 2,600 more. Inside this building, people sewing clothes for fast fashion brands sold across the global west had previously expressed fear for their lives, as the walls creaked loudly and a lack of building safety was well established – but employers demanded they continue to work and make money for the big brands anyway. 

This event brought a largely hidden issue into the global view, with news coverage from all across the world. However, almost a decade later, similar problems still persist. These include:

Unsafe Work Conditions

Despite the supposed wake-up call of Rana Plaza, too many women make our clothes in unsafe conditions. 

For example, distressed denim is sometimes made by sand-blasting, where people aim high-pressure hoses full of sand at the jeans. This sand can cause serious respiratory issues for workers. Similarly, workers who iron clothes before they are shipped off to America, Europe and Australia have reported doing so in windowless, unventilated rooms that are so hot and steam-filled, it causes them to faint. Other reports have even shown women – including pregnant women – who demand safety gear in sweatshops to be sacked just for asking for their basic safety. 

Poverty Payment

Did you know that just 2% of garment workers around the world are paid a fair, living wage? This leaves the other 98% being paid what’s called a ‘poverty wage’ – a wage which cannot sustain a person’s basic needs like housing, food, and other essentials – keeping them in poverty. 

Gender-Based Violence 

Women working to make our clothes are denied maternity leave and even fired for becoming pregnant. In Cambodia, another hotspot for cheap clothing production, 1 in 3 women working in the garment industry experience sexual assault, harassment and violence. In Bangladesh, 28% of garment workers face this. This is unacceptable. 

What’s more, while women make up the majority of the garment industry’s workforce, they are far less likely to ever be in a managerial position or a higher-paying leadership role. This contributes to gendered power imbalances, which perpetuate sexism and violence. 

What can brands do to support the women who make our clothes?

Fashion is inherently anti-feminist and racist if it relies on the exploitation of poorer women of colour to exist. For brands to stand in solidarity with the women who make their clothes, they need to pay them living wages, ensure they have their human rights, and a safe place to work. 

However, this is the bare minimum. While it’s, unfortunately, the case when most of the fashion industry is so exploitative, a brand being ethical should not be something to celebrate – it should be the expected norm. 

While this cycle of poverty and harm persists, some brands are working even harder to change how this system operates, building their entire brand around empowering women in the fashion industry. 

Let’s take a look at some of them! 

Ethical & Sustainable Brands that Empower Women:

1. Able

This Nashville based brand works with manufacturing partners across Ethiopia, Brazil, Mexico and India, and they publish all of their lowest wages to ensure transparency and fairness. 

ABLE launched as a social enterprise which aimed to help victim-survivors of the commercial sexual exploitation trade in Ethiopia. The brand did this by helping women to alternative, safe work making scarves.

ABLE believes that to end exploitation is to end poverty, and job creation is important to this. 

Today, alongside their partners, the brand offers a range of ethical garments like organic cotton sweaters, sweet dresses and jumpsuits, artisan made jewelry and more. Just watch out for animal-derived materials if you’re seeking to avoid the issues wrapped up in them.

ABLE also has a podcast called ‘She is ABLE’, where you can hear directly from some of the women behind the brand – like Barbara, who makes some of their jewelry.

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2. PAKA

Did you know that one in three Peruvian children under the age of 5 has chronic malnutrition?

With women in developing countries reinvesting 90% of their income back into the family and community, PAKA aims to change this by multiplying each weaver's daily income by 8x. This will make a huge difference in each woman's ability to make decisions, feed her children, and bring them to the hospital when necessary! Plus, the women weavers are able to use their skills and preserve their heritage and Inca culture.

Founded in Peru, PAKA has created a natural, sustainable clothing line for those who love the outdoors.

They believe using eco-friendly materials like their super soft Royal Alpaca that can connect consumers more to nature and sustainably support small communities.

Their products are fully traceable from the fiber source, each product features a QR that shows the consumer the farm where the fiber was harvested.

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*bonus* Klean Kanteen

In honor of International Women’s Day, Klean Kanteen has launched a special edition water bottle! It is made from certified 90% post-consumer recycled 18/8 stainless steel, featuring a bamboo cap with a swivel bale that keeps drinks ice cold for up to 63 hours!

Klean Kanteen is a Certified B Corp brand, Climate Neutral Certified, and Family and employee-owned. If you want a reusable cup, this is the brand to check out.

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3. Mata Traders

Mata Traders aims to ‘fashion a better world’ by creating designs that celebrate a woman’s originality and empower her to use her dollar for change. Mata Traders partners with several Fair Trade organizations in India and Nepal that train and employ hundreds of artisans in marginalized communities. They are known for fun prints, patterns and colors. Their printed dresses made with handwoven cotton and tops with hand-embroidered designs are perfect for summer!

Mata means ‘mother’ in Hindi & is a tribute to Shakti - the female creative power in all of us.

Every time you purchase a piece from Mata Traders, you are preserving an art form, fighting gender equality, and empowering women in India & Nepal

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4. Anchal

A non-profit social enterprise, Anchal is providing alternative careers in textiles to marginalized and exploited women in India.

It was created by sisters Colleen & Maggie Clines after they were inspired from a visit to Ajmer, India.

There, they learned of the extreme oppression many women faced as commercial sex workers in the region.

They also noticed the economic opportunity with the area’s textiles.

By merging contemporary designs and the traditional Kantha quilting techniques from North India they were able to change lives and support stronger sustainable communities. Anchal believes 'design thinking' is the creative approach to problem solving, and we couldn't agree more.

Anchal Project is a 501(c)3 non-profit and is a member of the Fair Trade Federation.

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5. Daughters of India

Daughters of India is a slow, sustainably handmade fashion label.

Through supporting Indian artisans and women in the workplace, they work to bridge the gap between artisan and consumer, preserve generational traditions, and encourage women's empowerment.

They also pride themselves on creating sustainably handmade garments embodying comfort, femininity, and versatility. 

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6. Laude the Label

Designed by women, Made by women. LAUDE the Label supports women artisans in five countries — Guatemala, Honduras, Haiti, India, and Peru. This brand understands the importance of investing in the people behind its products. All of their artisans are paid fair-trade wages on time! Fair wages are 2-3 times the minimum wage where they operate. These wages mean artisans can support themselves and their families. In addition, LAUDE the Label visits their manufacturers every year to make sure artisans are in healthy working conditions and never working more than 8 hours a day.

LAUDE the Label is a Certified B Corp Brand & a member of the Fair Trade Federation.

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7. Outland Denim

This denim brand (which offers a selection of jeans with vegan leather patches) uses traceable, sustainable organic cotton, and even uses some clay-dyed denim. Outland also creates other garments from organic cotton and linen, with a selection of skirts, dresses and shirts.

Outland is dedicated to the abolition of slavery, with freedom and liberty being core to the brand and its values.

The brand creates their clothing in Cambodia, where unjust practices are rife in the textile industry.

In opposition to this, the brand pays fair living wages and offers a safe, comfortable alternative for working women – often those previously working in dangerous sweatshop conditions.

Outland Denim labels include messages from the seamstresses who make the garments, and you can learn about the people behind their clothes on their website. 

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8. Minna

Minna collaborates with artisans in Mexico, Peru, Guatemala, Uruguay, and Bolivia. In Uruguay, they work with the largest network of women-run co-ops in the country. These partnerships provide fair wages and safe working conditions for workers. All handmade pieces are made from thoughtful production using sustainable materials, factories, and small-batch productions to ensure the highest quality goods.Minna is very transparent about how they manage to place orders sustainably and their payment process, which shows their care for their artisans.

They also honor the traditional techniques created from years of craft expertise and collaborate to create the designs. Their designs are inspired by Feminist art, the Bauhaus, traditional craft, and vintage textiles. By utilizing organic, recycled, and conventional materials, all of their pieces are thoughtfully curated.

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9. The Tote Project

A beautiful brand created to give back!

Based on friendship & a shared dream, Fay Grant and Michelle Chavez started The Tote Project to support the recovery of victims of modern-day slavery.

With hope, they strive to empower survivors of human trafficking by providing them opportunities and helping show their worth & potential.

Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery, and there are currently over 20 million victims worldwide.

The Tote Project donates 10% of gross profits to Two Wings to support survivors of human trafficking in the US. Plus, they partner with factories that support women survivors.

Every tote is handmade by Oasis Bags in a sustainable factory in India from fair-trade certified cotton. These factories are dedicated to empowering women in the city of Kolkata. The pouches are made by Freeset, a fair trade freedom business offering employment to women escaping West Bengal’s sex trade.

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10. Birdsong

UK based Birdsong aims to support women across the board – from those who make their clothes, to their models and the women who buy from them. This dedication is shown best through their two-pronged policy of ‘no sweatshops, no photoshop’. Not only does the fashion industry keep garment working women in poverty, it disempowers women who are riddled with insecurity caused by unattainable and harsh beauty standards. By committing to paying women fairly (earning above London’s basic living wage), and to never altering the appearance of women who they photograph, Birdsong is working to shake things up.

This brand sells a gorgeous selection of clothes – from jackets to jumpsuits, trousers, dresses, skirts and recycled knitwear. This brand has plenty of animal-free options, too.

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11. The Social Outfit

This Ethical Clothing Australia accredited brand exists to support refugee women to thrive through employment. Refugee women who work at The Social Outfit are provided training to build skills, and opportunities to interact with the community around them as they are welcomed into it. To date, 460 people have gone through their specialist sewing training. The brand has helped women from 30 countries, and offered a safe space for them: “I was nervous at first, but now it feels like home. The Social Outfit gives me something to look forward to. I belong here.” – words from a sewing student in the program.

The Social Outfit is a registered charity, and they make their clothing out of surplus materials that other brands would otherwise discard, as they ordered too much or have no use for it. This reduces fashion waste!

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12. Naja

Naja creates gorgeous lingerie from recycled materials, and they do so while empowering women. The American label specifically seeks to employ single mothers and women who head up their households, offering them above market wages, providing them with education stipends for their children, and health benefits. The brand also supplies school books, meals and uniforms to all the children of the women who make their bras and underwear, while providing these mothers with flexible working hours so they can spend time with their little ones.

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WANT MORE SUSTAINABLE BRANDS? VISIT OUR BRAND DIRECTORY!

Our Brand Directory is home to hundreds of sustainable brands, from makeup to cleaning supplies, from underwear to shoes. We have broken everything down by category for easy shopping, along with discount codes unique to Sustainably Chic viewers.

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