Hemp vs. Cotton: Which Fabric Is More Sustainable?

When choosing eco-friendly fabrics, hemp and cotton are two of the most common options. Both have been used for centuries, but when it comes to sustainability, durability, and environmental impact, how do they compare?

In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of hemp vs. cotton so you can make an informed choice for a greener lifestyle.

1. Environmental Impact

Hemp: A Low-Impact Powerhouse

• Minimal water usage – Hemp requires 50% less water than cotton to grow.
• No pesticides needed – Naturally resistant to pests, meaning fewer chemicals in the soil.
• Regenerates soil – Enriches the soil it grows in, making it more sustainable for farming.
• High yield – Produces 250% more fiber per acre compared to cotton.

Cotton: Water-Intensive & Pesticide-Heavy

• High water consumption – A single cotton t-shirt can take 2,700 liters of water to produce.
• Heavy pesticide use – Cotton farming uses 16% of the world’s pesticides, harming soil and water.
• Organic cotton is better – Reduces chemical use but still requires large amounts of water.

Winner: Hemp – It’s far more sustainable with less water, pesticides, and land use.

2. Durability & Longevity

Hemp: Stronger and Longer-Lasting

• 4x stronger than cotton – Hemp fibers are naturally durable and don’t wear out as quickly.
• Softens with age – Starts slightly rougher but becomes softer over time.
• Resistant to mold & UV rays – Lasts longer, even in outdoor settings.

Cotton: Comfortable but Weaker

• Softer initially – Cotton is known for its natural softness.
• Breaks down faster – Cotton fibers weaken over time, leading to faster wear and tear.
• Prone to shrinking – Cotton garments often shrink in the wash, reducing their lifespan.
  

Winner: Hemp – It lasts longer, making it a more sustainable choice in the long run.

3. Comfort & Wearability

Hemp: Breathable & Hypoallergenic

• Highly breathable – Keeps you cool in summer and warm in winter.
• Moisture-wicking – Absorbs and releases moisture quickly, keeping you dry.
• Hypoallergenic – Less likely to cause skin irritation.

Cotton: Classic Comfort

• Naturally soft – One of the most comfortable fabrics.
• Widely available – Found in most clothing and home textiles.
• Holds moisture – Can absorb sweat but takes longer to dry.

Winner: Tie – Cotton is softer at first, but hemp gets softer over time and has better moisture control.

4. Biodegradability & End of Life

Hemp: Fully Biodegradable & Recyclable

Breaks down naturally – Decomposes within a few months.

Recyclable – Can be repurposed into paper, rope, and other materials.

Cotton: Also Biodegradable, But With Issues

• Organic cotton breaks down quickly – But…
• Conventional cotton releases chemicals – If grown with pesticides, it can release toxins into the soil when decomposing.

Winner: Hemp – It decomposes faster and cleaner than conventionally grown cotton.

5. Which One Should You Choose?

Verdict: Hemp is the More Sustainable Choice

While organic cotton is a better alternative to conventional cotton, hemp is still the winner when it comes to sustainability, durability, and environmental impact.