At Mindful Merch, sustainability isn't just a trend—it's a fundamental value that guides every decision we make. From design to production, we're committed to reducing our environmental impact and promoting ethical practices in the fashion industry. One of the ways we uphold this commitment is through our careful selection of sustainable fabrics. Let's take a closer look at some of the fabrics we love and why we choose them:
- Organic Cotton:
Renowned for its softness and breathability, organic cotton is a staple in our collections. Unlike conventional cotton, which is grown using harmful pesticides and chemicals, organic cotton is cultivated using natural and eco-friendly methods. We source all of our organic cotton raw, and we take pride in knitting it into specific fabrics that meet our quality and sustainability standards. Our organic cotton is sourced from certified suppliers who prioritise soil health, water conservation, and fair labour practices.
- Recycled Polyester (RPET):
As advocates for circular fashion, we believe in giving new life to existing materials. That's why we use recycled polyester, or RPET, in many of our products. RPET is made from recycled plastic bottles, diverting waste from landfills and reducing the demand for virgin polyester production. Here's how RPET fabric for hats is typically produced:
- Collection: Empty plastic bottles are collected from recycling centres, landfills, and other sources.
- Sorting and Cleaning: The collected bottles are sorted based on their type and colour. They are then thoroughly cleaned to remove any impurities or contaminants.
- Shredding: The cleaned bottles are shredded into small flakes or chips.
- Melting and Extrusion: The shredded plastic flakes are melted down and extruded into thin fibres.
- Spinning: The extruded fibres are spun into yarns, which can then be woven or knitted into fabric.
- Finishing: The RPET fabric may undergo additional finishing processes, such as dyeing, printing, or coating, to achieve the desired appearance and properties.
- TENCEL™ Lyocell:
Derived from sustainably sourced wood pulp, TENCEL™ Lyocell is a revolutionary fabric known for its silky smooth texture and eco-friendly production process. We love TENCEL™ Lyocell for its breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and minimal environmental impact. Our TENCEL™ Lyocell fibres are sourced from responsibly managed forests and produced using a closed-loop system that minimises waste and water usage.
- Merino Wool:
Renowned for its warmth and softness, Merino wool is a natural fibre that we're proud to incorporate into our collections. We source our Merino wool from ethically managed farms that prioritise animal welfare and sustainable land management practices. By choosing Merino wool, we support a regenerative and renewable resource that is biodegradable and carbon-neutral.
- Hemp:
As one of the most sustainable fibres available, hemp is a true hero in our fabric lineup. Hemp requires minimal water, pesticides, and synthetic fertilisers to grow, making it a low-impact and environmentally friendly choice. We source our hemp from certified suppliers who adhere to strict environmental and social standards, ensuring that our hemp fabrics are both sustainable and responsibly produced.
- Deadstock Fabrics:
In our efforts to reduce waste and minimise our environmental footprint, we also embrace deadstock fabrics in our collections. These are leftover fabrics from larger fashion houses and textile mills that would otherwise end up in landfills. By repurposing deadstock fabrics, we give them new life and contribute to a more circular and sustainable fashion industry.
Sourcing:
We take great care in producing and sourcing our sustainable fabrics, ensuring that they meet our strict criteria for quality, sustainability, and ethical production. We work closely with certified suppliers and manufacturers who share our values and are committed to transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain.
To find out more about our fabrics please feel free to reach out to us.
Janelle
