5 Simple New Eco-friendly Shopping Ways to Save the Environment

Did you know that the clothing manufacturing process produces billions of toxic chemicals as a result of the cloth dyeing process and other "designer" treatment. The following are five simple ways to change your clothing shopping habits to save the environment.

Buy Used/Vintage Clothing Whenever Possible

Since used clothing has already been dyed or treated, you can save money and reduce unnecessary waste by buying used or vintage clothing.

Buy Natural Colored Clothing Whenever Feasible

A simple way to reduce your dependency on toxic chemicals used during clothing production, is to consciously choose natural colored clothing (without dyes). This simple gesture saves millions of dyes and other toxic chemicals from leaching into our environment and waterways.

Buy Clothing that has been minimally processed

There is no reason why you should buy jeans that have been pre-stone washed or "specially" treated to create a worn in appearance. Buy a pair of jeans that you can wear them in yourself. It may take a couple of months but the worn out look can be achieved with time. Don't wash your jeans after each wear unless you have completed major construction or gardening work. Your jeans can withstand 3-4 uses before needing a wash in the washer based on typical daily wear.

For Kids, Let them Grow into Clothes

Most experience moms know that kids tend to grow relatively fast, so whenever you buy clothes for your children, buy at least one size larger than they are, pants and tops can easily be sewn in for a few months until the kids fit the clothes. Then you can let out the stitches when the clothes fit perfectly. This saves money and reduces clothing purchases as well (which means it's better for the environment).

Rent for Special Occasions

Married couples know that you can save money and be kind to the environment by renting wedding apparel for that special wedding day. This idea has been extended to all major celebratory occasions. Celebrities rent or borrow their designer clothes for major events. You can do the same as well. If you need to buy a special holiday dress or outfit, avoid trendy colors and patterns. Keep to a basic naturally dyed nicely shaped dress that you can wear to a number of events. You can change your look easily by matching it with different accessories.

Read about more free tips on www.eco-friendlyliving.com.