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Shopping sustainably can feel confusing. Labels are covered in words like “eco”, “conscious” and “green”, but what do they actually mean? The good news is that once you know what to look for, spotting genuinely sustainable clothing becomes much easier. Here is my simple guide to reading fabric labels like a pro.
Step 1: Read the Fibre Composition
Every garment has a care label listing what it is made from, usually as percentages, for example “60% organic cotton, 40% polyester”. This is the most honest part of the label, so start here.
- Higher percentages of sustainable fibres are better. A top that is 100% organic cotton is very different from one with just 5%.
- Watch out for blends. Mixed fibres, especially natural fibres blended with synthetics, are much harder to recycle.
- Know the better fibres. Look for organic cotton, recycled cotton, hemp, linen, lyocell (including TENCEL™) and recycled polyester.
Step 2: Look for Trusted Certifications
Certifications are checked by independent organisations, which makes them far more reliable than a brand’s own claims. Here are the most useful ones to recognise:
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)
One of the strongest labels for organic fabrics. It covers how the fibre is grown as well as the processing, chemicals used and working conditions.
OEKO-TEX® Standard 100
Shows the finished fabric has been tested for harmful substances, so it is safer for your skin. Note that it is about safety, not how sustainable the fabric is.
Fairtrade Cotton
Means the cotton farmers received a fair price and better support for their communities.
GRS and RCS (Global Recycled Standard and Recycled Claim Standard)
Confirm that recycled content claims are genuine. GRS also includes some environmental and social requirements.
FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)
Often seen on fabrics like viscose, modal and lyocell, which are made from wood. It shows the wood came from responsibly managed forests.
Step 3: Be Wary of Vague Words
Words like “eco-friendly”, “green”, “natural”, “conscious” or “sustainable” on their own do not prove anything. Brands can use them without meeting any standard. If a label uses these words, look for the fibre percentages or a certification to back them up. If there are none, be cautious.
Step 4: Check Where and How It Was Made
- The label will show the country of manufacture. On its own this does not tell you everything, but brands that are proud of their supply chain usually share more details on their website.
- Look for brands that publish information about their factories and workers.
- Quality matters too. Strong seams and good stitching mean a garment will last longer, which is one of the most sustainable things of all.
Step 5: Read the Care Instructions
Care labels tell you how to make clothes last. Choosing pieces you can wash cool and air-dry saves energy at home, and treating them gently means you will replace them less often.
Further Reading
Want to go deeper? Two highly regarded books on the fashion industry:
Quick Checklist for Your Next Shopping Trip
- What percentage of the fabric is a sustainable fibre?
- Is there a trusted certification like GOTS, Fairtrade or GRS?
- Are any eco claims backed up, or just vague words?
- Is it well made and something I will wear many times?
Learning to read labels is one of the easiest ways to shop more sustainably. To learn more about specific fabrics, read my guides on bamboo and organic cotton.
Which labels do you look for when you shop? Let me know in the comments.