Curtains can make or break a room. They add an element of luxury, fun, or flair to your living spaces, and of course, are infinitely useful for keeping out the sun, keeping in the heat (a good way to save on electricity bills!), and providing privacy.
But with growing concerns around global warming and losing our precious natural resources, consumers are becoming increasingly interested and committed to investing in more eco-friendly and sustainable products, including home furnishings.
As a result, curtains, too, are moving onto the green radar. And more and more companies are providing us with attractive eco-friendly curtains made from organic and sustainable materials.
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Why Switch to Sustainable Curtains?
Traditional curtain fabrics can be made from synthetic materials, such as polyester, which consumes the planet’s resources at an unsustainable rate, even adding to environmental harm by using toxic chemicals and artificial dyes, polluting water sources and the air, and impacting our health. In addition, many fast fashion manufacturers (that goes for the big names in home decor too) are known to employ unethical labor practices, underpaying and exploiting workers in far away countries.
In contrast, eco-friendly drapes, including Global Organic Textiles Standard (GOTS) certified curtains, rely on environmentally-conscious, sustainable materials such as linen, hemp, organic cotton curtains, and recycled fabrics.
Which Materials to Look for in Eco Curtains?
When looking to replace your old synthetic curtains with new drapes made from organic materials, consider the following natural materials.
Hemp Curtains
Hemp is a natural plant fiber from the stems of the Cannabis plant. Regarding sustainability, hemp is the least harmful to the environment, requiring less water and helping replenish soil nutrients. It is also a robust textile and biodegradable.
Linen Curtains
This crisp yet soft textile uses the whole flax plant, limiting waste after spinning and weaving. Organic linens also avoid harmful substances – such as dyes, chemicals, and water pollution. Not only that but growing linen uses little water, and actually removes CO2 from the environment – one hectare of flax can take 3.7 tonnes of CO2 out of the atmosphere – making it a great choice for home decor.
Organic Cotton Curtains
This fresh and versatile fabric is grown using non-genetically modified seeds, without pesticides and relying on fewer natural resources than traditionally farmed cotton. Choose organic curtains for a fresh look and a healthier alternative.
Recycled Fabric Curtains
Recycled fabrics reuse existing textiles, cycling waste, and help preserve natural resources. Textiles include recycled cotton, synthetics such as nylon and polyester, and other textile waste. Innovative manufacturers are also successfully creating synthetic polyester by recycling waste materials such as plastic bottles, helping clean the environment while avoiding the need for additional resources.
So, which eco-friendly window curtains are available?
Best Earth-Friendly Curtains
To meet consumer demand for more sustainable curtain fabrics and manufacturing practices, many producers are stepping up with more conscious options. The good news is that they’re sourcing sustainable fabric suppliers, using fair trade labor, and creating beautiful products that will be the perfect addition to your living room or bedroom.
In addition, Linoto’s Zero Waste Program also ensures that any scraps are retained and recycled into sample swatches, linen towels, and boxer shorts.