Would you like to know where to find sustainable raincoats? It rains a lot, so nearly everyone has a raincoat. But did you know that most conventional raincoats of quality are covered with toxic sprays? When time comes to replace, here are more sustainable options.
Organic cotton is far better for the planet and wildlife, and is also nicer for farmers, as they can pick the cotton, without need to wear protective clothing in very hot weather. Around a quarter of the world’s agricultural chemicals are used to make cotton, so try to find organic or recycled cotton garments, rather than new. Unlike synthetic fibres, cotton is safe to launder without breaking off microplastics into the ocean, and safely biodegrades.
Many eco raincoats are made from recycled plastic bottles. Is this safe, considering plastic has hormone disruptors? Obviously you don’t want to use for clothing next to a child’s skin (and definitely not for baby clothing). But raincoats are not touching our skin, and they do keep out the rain. Organic cotton raincoats are great.
Are Recycled Plastic Raincoats Safe?
Many eco raincoats used up recycled plastic bottles, as this material is waterproof. Is it safe? Dr Martin Mulvihill (a chemist) says that it takes 38 days of a water bottle being heated to reach unsafe levels for water you ingest (not fabric on your skin). So he says unless you are working out in 150 degrees, wearing recycled plastic clothing is not likely to be a problem. Be concerned about the finish (used to stop wrinkling). However always wash recycled plastic clothing (and synthetic materials) in a microfiber catch bag, to stop microplastics breaking off in the machine.
- Nomads Clothing offers organic cotton raincoats, made with 90% biodegradable materials and a water-resistant organic cotton canvas outer and soft viscose lining. The simple flattering silhouette has practical pockets, a removable hood and drawcord-adjustable waist.
- Thought offers quality organic raincoats, with no toxic coatings.
- Seasalt (Cornwall) offers fully waterproof raincoats, made from an eco-friendly alternative to oilskin. Tested in Cornish windy rain, you will however have to ‘read the ingredients’ of each, as a few have leather trim, and there is no filter.
- Frugi (Cornwall) has its own line of bright fun rainwear, made from recycled plastic bottles, along with matching waterproof trousers and rubber wellies, In various designs from sunflower to unicorn puddles to Loch Blue Nessie! These coats are designed to protect against the elements with a chin chard, storm placket and elasticated cuffs, and have reflective print details (and a dipped hem to keep bottoms warm and dry). There’s even a label to write your little one’s name on.
Choose a Recycled Umbrella
This recycled plastic ‘London’ umbrella is made from plastic bottles, with a sturdy bamboo handle. The fun design in bright colours, quickly folds away into its own protect bag, with wrist strap. This design helps to remove plastic from our waste system, and a portion of proceeds helps Marine Conservation Society, a charity that protects our oceans.laughter in the rain
Billycoats & Raincoats is a clothing brand that makes colourful raincoats for children, made from upcycled tents, one of the most common waste items across the UK, often left in fields by festival goers. The 10 coats are all locally made and suitable for 2 to 7 year old children, in simple or bold designs. Save a tent from landfill, and keep your precious bundle dry at the same time!
