We sing the praises of natural fibres for very good reason. Cotton, linen, silk, wool, bamboo, viscose, rayon, and tencel wardrobe items are breathable, keep your body temperature comfortable, have a more positive environmental impact, and can feel glorious against the skin. 

That said, it’s my job to provide a balanced view. And natural fibres also have some disadvantages.

1. Expensive

Natural fibres require the care of plants and animals. That along with multiple steps of processing makes them comparatively expensive to produce. Cotton requires large amounts of water to grow. Synthetic fibres are easier and cheaper to produce, often making them the more affordable option.

2. Shrinkage

Most natural fibres are prone to shrinking in hot water and the dryer unless fabrics are pre-shrunk before garment production. 100% viscose, rayon, and wool items are particularly prone to shrinking in the laundry. Synthetic fibres tend to hold their shape and not shrink at all.

3. Skin Irritation

Wool from all sorts of animals can be itchy and aggravate the skin. It some cases it can cause an unpleasant allergic reaction. Linen can be a little scratchy too. Thankfully, knitwear in natural cottons, rayon, viscose, and silk are soothing against the skin.

4. Less Robust

Synthetic clothing is usually wrinkle-free and holds up well in the laundry. It holds its colour well too. Brightly coloured clothing in natural fibres tends to fade fast, and lose its luster after frequent washing and wearing. There is fading from excessive sunlight too. Fabric made of natural fibres cannot be permanently pleated either.

5. Not Great For Gear

Natural fibres aren’t best for workout wear and sportswear. Gear tends to work best in synthetic technical fabrics which are designed for optimum sporting performance and protection against the elements. Synthetic technical fabrics stretch, insulate, wick-away, protect, and support the body in the best way. They dry fast too.

There is lots to consider when figuring out the best fabrics for your wardrobe items, and it’s certainly not all black or white. Natural fibres are best most of the time. Natural fibres that are blended with some synthetic components can be excellent too. And for some situations, synthetic fibres are the best way to go. Choose the fabric compositions and balance that works best for you.