Saving Water with your Fashion Choices

March 22 was International Water Day, which serves as a reminder of the importance of freshwater and sustainable management of this precious resource. It is estimated that only 3% of the world’s water is freshwater, and less than 1% of that is accessible for human consumption. Unfortunately, the fashion industry is one of the biggest culprits when it comes to water pollution and waste, with some estimates suggesting that it can take up to 2,700 liters of water to produce a single cotton t-shirt. As a sustainable fashion brand, it’s important to not only consider the impact of our products on the environment, but also the impact of our manufacturing processes on water resources.

Water is used in almost every step of the textile production process, from growing cotton and dyeing fabrics to washing and finishing garments. But there are things you can do to help save water in your fashion choices. Here are some tips to get started:

1. Choose Sustainable Fabrics

One of the easiest ways to save water in your fashion choices is to choose sustainable fabrics. Traditional cotton, for example, requires a lot of water to grow. According to the World Wildlife Fund, it can take up to 20,000 liters of water to produce just one kilogram of cotton. Sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, and linen require much less water to grow and process.

2. Wash Less Frequently

Another way to save water in your fashion choices is to wash your clothes less frequently. This not only saves water, but it can also help extend the life of your clothes. Instead of washing after every wear, consider wearing items multiple times before washing. You can also spot clean stains or use a fabric freshener to keep your clothes smelling clean.

3. Use a Front-Loading Washing Machine

If you do need to wash your clothes, consider choosing a front-loading washing machine. These machines use less water than top-loading machines, especially modern ones. You can also save water by washing full loads instead of half-loads.

4. Air Dry Your Clothes

Using a dryer to dry your clothes can use a lot of energy, and therefore water. Instead, air dry your clothes whenever you can. Not only does this save water, but it can also help extend the life of your clothes.

5. Repair Your Clothes

Another way to save water in your fashion choices is to repair your clothes. If a button falls off or a seam comes undone, don’t throw the item away. Instead, repair it yourself or take it to a tailor. This can help extend the life of your clothes, which means you’ll need to buy fewer items in the long run. 

6. Choose High-Quality Clothes

Finally, choose high-quality clothes. Clothes that are made with high-quality materials and construction will last longer than cheaper, lower-quality items. You won’t need to replace high-quality clothes as often which can save water and other resources in the long run.

In conclusion, there are many ways to save water in your fashion choices. By making these small changes, you can help protect this precious resource for future generations.