As more brands commit to sustainability, the label is one more place to walk the talk. Eco-friendly clothing labels use natural or recycled materials and cleaner processes — and they signal your values to conscious customers. Here are your options.
Organic cotton labels
Organic cotton labels have a soft, natural, matte look and are a popular choice for sustainable and artisanal brands. They pair well with earthy designs and feel gentle against the skin.
Recycled polyester labels
Labels made from recycled polyester (rPET) — often from post-consumer plastic — keep the durability and color stability of polyester with a lower-impact footprint.
Natural and undyed options
Undyed or naturally dyed fabrics, and natural cotton string for hang tags, reduce the chemicals involved and reinforce an organic aesthetic. Recycled paper or seed-paper hang tags add an eco touch customers notice.
Certifications to know
- GOTS — Global Organic Textile Standard, for organic fibers.
- OEKO-TEX — tested for harmful substances.
- GRS — Global Recycled Standard, for recycled content.
If you carry a certification, your label and hang tag are a natural place to display it.
Designing sustainable labels
- Choose natural materials like organic cotton for neck and brand labels.
- Use recycled paper for hang tags and minimal, water-based inks.
- Keep it simple — clean, uncluttered design reads as premium and intentional.
- Match brand colors with Pantone matching for consistency.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most eco-friendly clothing label?
Organic cotton and recycled polyester (rPET) labels are among the most popular sustainable options, paired with recycled-paper hang tags.
Can a woven label be sustainable?
Woven labels can use recycled or organic yarns. Their durability also means the label lasts the life of the garment, reducing waste.
Do customers care about eco labels?
Many conscious shoppers do — a natural label and visible certification can reinforce your brand’s sustainability story.
Get eco-friendly labels made
Tell us your sustainability goals and we will recommend materials that fit. Request a free quote to explore eco-friendly options.