As a fashion designer focused on sustainability, I make it my mission to educate people about the fabrics that make up their clothing. One fabric that often flies under the radar but has a significant environmental impact is acrylic fabric. While it may seem harmless or even beneficial to some due to its affordability and durability, the truth is far from that. Acrylic fabric is arguably one of the most unsustainable textiles on the planet and I'll explain why you should avoid it in your wardrobe.

Acrylic fabric is a synthetic textile made from petroleum-derived chemicals. Essentially, acrylic fabric is plastic that is spun into fibres to mimic natural materials like wool. It is lightweight, soft, and warm, often used in sweaters, blankets, and upholstery. Many people are unaware that the cozy jumper they are wearing is essentially made from the same material as plastic bottles!

One of the main reasons acrylic fabric is so widely used is its affordability. Compared to natural fibres like cotton and wool, acrylic fabric is much cheaper to produce. This makes it appealing to manufacturers and consumers alike, especially fast fashion chains. 

Additionally, acrylic fabric is praised for its versatility. It is lightweight, soft, and holds warmth, making it ideal for cosy garments. It is also resistant to stains, fading, and wrinkles, which appeals to those looking for low-maintenance clothing. On top of that, it holds onto dyes very well, resulting in vibrant, bold colours that make acrylic garments stand out.

Acrylic fabric was first developed in the early 1940s and was initially hailed as a revolutionary material. It mimicked wool while being cheaper, resistant to moths, and less susceptible to oils and chemicals. Post-World War II, people were eager for new, affordable materials, and acrylic fabric fit the bill perfectly. By the 1950s and 1960s, it became a staple in wardrobes worldwide, celebrated for its convenience and affordability. Even now, you probably have some acrylic in your wardrobe without realising it!

When acrylic fabric was first created, it seemed like the perfect material. However, as we’ve become more aware of the environmental impact of different textiles, the dark side of acrylic has become more apparent.

• Petroleum-Based Origins : Acrylic fabric is derived from petroleum, a non-renewable resource. The extraction and processing of petroleum are environmentally destructive activities that lead to habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change. The reliance on fossil fuels for acrylic production ties this fabric to a broader problem of resource depletion.

• Energy-Intensive Manufacturing : The production of acrylic fabric requires significant amounts of water and energy, which are often sourced from non-renewable fossil fuels. This only increases the carbon footprint of the fabric.

• Chemical Pollution : One of the by-products of acrylic production is acrylonitrile, a toxic chemical that is released into the air and water during manufacturing. It poses serious health risks to both humans and animals and contributes to environmental pollution.

Given the unsustainable nature of acrylic, you might wonder what the alternatives are. Thankfully, there are several more eco-friendly options that you can choose instead of acrylic fabric.

• Wool : Wool is a natural fibre that has been used for centuries. It’s warm, durable, and biodegradable. While there are still concerns about the environmental impact of large-scale wool production, many sustainable and ethical wool brands are working to address these issues.

• Cotton : Cotton is another natural alternative to acrylic. Depending on how the cotton is spun, it can offer a similar feel to acrylic fabric . However, it’s important to choose organic or sustainably sourced cotton, as conventional cotton farming can be water-intensive and involve harmful pesticides.

The environmental toll of acrylic fabric is simply too high to ignore. It contributes to microplastic pollution, relies on non-renewable resources, and cannot be recycled. As a conscious consumer, it’s crucial to avoid buying new clothing made from acrylic and instead opt for more sustainable options like wool or organic cotton. These alternatives provide the same warmth and softness without the harmful environmental footprint.

While acrylic fabric’s affordability and convenience have made it a popular choice, it’s clear that it comes at a cost – not just to our planet, but to future generations who will inherit the waste and pollution it creates. As we continue to learn more about the environmental impact of fashion, it’s essential to support fabrics that align with sustainable values.

As consumers, we have the power to influence the fashion industry. By choosing to avoid acrylic fabric and opting for sustainable alternatives, we can reduce the demand for harmful materials. Every purchase we make sends a message to fashion brands about what we value – and sustainable, eco-friendly choices should be at the top of the list.

Start by examining your wardrobe. Do you own items made from acrylic fabric? If so, take care of them to extend their lifespan and avoid sending them to landfill prematurely. When shopping for new clothing, check labels carefully to ensure that you’re supporting sustainable textiles.