What is the buzz about recycled linen?

Posted Apr 28, 2025 by admin

With the entire world going sustainable slowly, have you heard about 100% recycled linen? Driven by growing consumer demand for Earth-friendly and sustainable fabrics in the fashion industry, 100% recycled linen is becoming increasingly popular. While the fabric in its natural form has always gained admiration for its renewable, breathable, and natural properties, the recycled form is further enhancing its sustainability appeal.

If you are wondering about the difference between the two, since both are good for the planet, keep reading till the end to find out all about it.

Why does linen have a low environmental impact?

As you might know already, linen is a natural material that is made from the fibers of the flax plant and has a low environmental impact. Now, if you are thinking, ‘’Why is that?’’, it’s because, during its cultivation and processing, it needs less water, pesticides, and energy than other crops. And, its durability, biodegradability, and regenerative properties also contribute to its eco-friendliness.

Do you know that flax plantations can survive only on rainwater? But then, it heavily depends on the regions where they are grown. Flax cultivation is extremely common in Belgium, Northern France, and Northern Europe, where a good amount of rainfall facilitates its growth.

What are the characteristics and properties of linen?

Hypoallergenic: The natural fiber and loose weave of linen make it less likely to cause allergies.

Durability: Linen is known for its resistance and strength to wear and tear.

Sweat-wicking: This fabric absorbs sweat and dries quickly, which makes it just perfect for the summer.

Breathability: The open weave of linen allows for great air circulation, which keeps the wearer comfortable and cool.

Softness: Though you will find it slightly textured in the beginning, it becomes softer and more comfortable with every wash.

How is linen recycled?

Linen is recycled through mechanical processing, where materials are broken down into fibers and spun back into new yarns.

Below is the detailed procedure:

• To avoid re-dyeing and ensure proper processing, linen waste, along with other textiles, is initially sorted by material and color.
• To remove impurities and prepare them for fiber separation, the sorted textiles are then shredded into smaller pieces and washed.
• To separate the individual fibers, the shredded fabrics are further processed.
• Such fibers are then aligned and cleaned through a process called carding, making them ready for spinning.
• The carded fibers are next spun into new yarn, either alone or combined with other fabrics like polyester or cotton.
• The newly spun yarn is then used to create new linen materials.

Is natural linen better or recycled linen?

To find out, let’s take a look at the benefits of each:

Natural linen

Advantages:

• Great for hot weather and moisture absorption.
• Known for its ability to withstand wear and tear and strength.
• Flax plants need less water.
• It’s natural and biodegradable.

Recycled linen

Advantages:

• It’s known for its reduced impact on water and CO2 emissions.
• It’s a great alternative to new linen.
• The recycled process needs less water than producing new linen.
• It uses discarded linen materials straight from the landfills, therefore helping lessen textile waste.

So, the ultimate verdict can be that recycled linen lessens textile waste and can be a good option, though the production of natural linen also has a lower environmental impact because of its biodegradable nature and inherent characteristics.

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How to take care of your favorite linen clothing items?

• No matter what you are going for, products made of natural linen or crafted using 100% recycled linen, remember that this fabric is subject to a slight amount of shrinkage, so consider washing your apparel at a low temperature if you are using a washing machine.
• If you don’t want your knitwear to stretch, it’s always better to dry flat.
• When it’s about ironing, once again, give special attention to knitwear. Don’t apply the iron directly, but steam near the seams.

Join hands with a well-recognized recycled and sustainable clothing manufacturer today if you are a business owner eager to offer your planet-conscious customers clothing that is fabricated from 100% recycled linen! Bulk order today to leave a more positive impact on the environment!