Discover EcoMade products
We’re committed to helping the planet by developing high-quality EcoMade fibers and insulations made from recycled materials. This helps reduce waste and keeps materials in production. Look for clothes made with these sustainable fibers when you shop:
- LYCRA® EcoMade fiber
Our first branded spandex (elastane) containing recycled content is made with 20% pre-consumer manufacturing waste while offering the same unique performance benefits as the original LYCRA® fiber.
- COOLMAX® EcoMade technology
Made from 100% recycled PET bottles or textile waste, this polyester fiber gives new life to materials once destined for landfills, while delivering cool, dry comfort to clothes.
- THERMOLITE® EcoMade technology
This polyester fiber is made with 100% textile waste or recycled PET bottles to add lightweight warmth to clothing.
Transforming bottles into clothes
How are COOLMAX® EcoMade and THERMOLITE® EcoMade technologies made? Discarded plastics like water bottles are transformed into yarns that are turned into fabrics to make clothes. You can feel good about selecting that uses this technology because the fiber is made with recycled resources, which reduces the amount of waste going into landfills. You can feel good about selecting garments engineered with this technology because the fiber is made with 100% recycled resources.
1. PET bottles
Used PET bottles are collected
2. Flakes
Bottles are cleaned and ground into flakes
3. Chips
The flakes are converted into chips
4. Yarn
The chips are transformed into yarn
5. Fabric
Fabric is tested and certified to ensure the finished garment qualifies for our branding
6. Clothes
Fabric is tested and certified to ensure the finished garment qualifies for our branding
Love your clothes longer
A great way to reduce the environmental impact of a piece of clothing is to wear it longer. According to WRAP, wearing a garment for just nine months longer can reduce its waste, water and energy impact by 20% to 30% each. The LYCRA® brand has several fibers that will help stretch garments fit like the first time every time.
LYCRA® XTRA LIFE™ technology helps swimwear last up to 10x longer than suits made with ordinary spandex by resisting damage caused by heat, UV rays, chlorine, and lotions. Offerings under this brand can also be found in stretch jeans, woven pants and underwear, providing lasting comfort, shape and fit.
LYCRA® dualFX® technology combines two stretch fibers to deliver all-day comfort and a flattering fit that resists sagging and bagging. Enjoy super stretch jeans that maintain their shape wear after wear and wash after wash.
LYCRA® TOUGH MAX™ technology makes rugged stretch jeans that resist wear and tear and offer lasting performance. Jeans made with this fiber are up to two times stronger than 100% cotton denim without sacrificing your ability to move freely.
Help the Planet
When it’s time to dispose of clothing that you’ve grown tired of, don’t send it to a landfill. Consider these earth-friendly options instead:
- Damaged and stained apparel can be donated to a local textile recycling program, or some clothing retailers offer in-store recycling bins.
- Repair or refashion clothes to give them new life.
- Wearable clothes in good condition can be sold online, consigned, or donated to a thrift or charity shop for resale.