Recycled cotton is made by breaking down cotton waste, such as cutting scraps or old textiles, back into fibre.
Benefits
- Reuses cotton that would otherwise be wasted
- Reduces demand for new cotton growing
- Can be certified under GRS or RCS
Limits
- Shorter fibres: mechanical recycling shortens fibres, which can weaken the yarn
- Blending: it is often blended with virgin cotton or polyester for strength
- Colour: sorting by colour can reduce the need for re-dyeing, but limits shade options
Where it works well
Knits such as jersey and fleece, and heavier fabrics where strength requirements are moderate.
For buyers
Ask for the blend ratio, the certification and test results for strength and pilling.
See recycled fabrics or ask for options.