Healthy Choices in Clothing and Bedding
June 2026
What we wear — and sleep in — has a closer connection to our health than many people realise. Clothing and bedding sit against our skin, our body’s largest organ, for many hours every day. In fact, we spend around one-third of our lives in bed, making the materials we sleep amongst just as important as the clothes we wear.
Organic and natural fibres such as organic cotton, bamboo, hemp, linen and wool are generally produced with far fewer pesticides and synthetic chemicals than conventional fabrics. Conventional cotton is one of the world’s most chemically intensive crops, using large amounts of pesticides, herbicides and water. Synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon and acrylic are petroleum-based, shed microplastics and often contain chemical finishes linked to skin and respiratory irritation.
Bamboo clothing has become increasingly popular because of its soft feel and breathability. Quality bamboo fabrics can be comfortable for sensitive skin and are often favoured by people wanting lower-tox alternatives. Organic cotton and bamboo bedding may also help create a healthier sleep environment by reducing exposure to synthetic chemicals during the many hours we spend resting and recovering.
From an environmental perspective, organic fabrics can dramatically reduce carbon footprint, pesticide use and pollution. Hemp and linen require less water and fewer agricultural chemicals than conventional cotton.
Ethical sourcing is equally important. Many ultra-cheap multinational fashion retailers have faced criticism regarding exploitative labour practices and supply chains. Supporting ethically made Australian-focused brands helps promote healthier working conditions, sustainability and product quality.
In our home, we’ve been sleeping in organic pyjamas and bedding by Blessed Earth for over a decade, as well as wearing Boody organic bamboo and Bhumi organic cotton garments. If you can recommend any other Australian organic brands, please reach out and let me know.