More clients are asking for "Eco-Friendly" options than ever before. But that term can mean a few things. Usually, it comes down to two main contenders: Recycled Polyester (rPET) and Organic Cotton.
🌿 Organic Cotton
What is it? Cotton grown without toxic pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. It uses less water and healthier soil management.
The Hand: Incredibly soft. Often softer than standard cotton because the fibers aren't damaged by harsh chemicals.
Best For: Lifestyle brands, boutiques, and anyone who wants a pure, natural feel. Brands like Econscious and Allmade excel here.
♻️ Recycled Polyester (rPET)
What is it? Fabric made from melted-down plastic water bottles. It keeps plastic out of oceans and landfills.
The Hand: Smooth, silky, and athletic. It's often blended with cotton (50/50) to create a soft heathered tee that doesn't feel like plastic bags.
Best For: Activewear, uniforms, and tech companies. The Allmade Tri-Blend uses 6 recycled bottles per shirt!
Which one prints better?
Organic Cotton prints exactly like standard cotton. You can use Waterbase/Discharge inks for a zero-hand feel. It is the gold standard for print quality.
Recycled Poly is heat-sensitive. We can't use Discharge ink (which requires high heat). We typically use low-cure Plastisol additives to prevent "dye migration" (where the shirt color bleeds into the ink).
The Verdict
If you want a vintage, soft print? Go Organic Cotton.
If you want a durable, moisture-wicking athletic fit? Go Recycled Poly.