How to Compost Clothes & Underwear
Fast fashion is one of the biggest contributors to textile waste, with millions of tons of clothing ending up in landfills each year. But what if we told you some clothes could skip the landfill entirely and go straight back to the Earth? Composting clothes is a low-waste alternative that’s gaining traction among eco-conscious consumers. And yes, it includes your underwear.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how to compost clothes, what materials break down naturally, and how to spot (or avoid) synthetic materials that don’t belong in your compost pile. Plus, we’ll walk you through how to compost underwear, featuring CUFT®’s 100% TENCEL™ pairs.
Why Composting Clothes Matters
Throwing away clothes isn’t just wasteful, it’s toxic. Most textiles today are made from synthetic materials like polyester and nylon that don’t break down, leach microplastics, and contribute to pollution.
Composting, on the other hand, is a natural process that turns biodegradable materials into nutrient-rich soil. By composting your clothing made of natural fibers, you reduce landfill waste, limit exposure to harmful chemicals, and give your old garments a second life.
Understanding the difference between synthetic and natural materials is essential. Natural fibers like cotton and TENCEL™ decompose easily. Synthetic materials do not—and worse, they can pollute your compost and, eventually, the soil.
What Kinds of Clothes Can Be Composted
Natural Fibers That Break Down
Clothing made from natural fibers is compostable when processed correctly. These include:
- Cotton (100% only, not blended)
- Linen
- Wool
- Hemp
- TENCEL™ (a eucalyptus-based fiber)
TENCEL™, used in CUFT® underwear, is particularly compostable because it’s produced without toxic chemicals and is entirely biodegradable. Natural fabrics like these break down within 3 to 6 months under the right composting conditions.
Synthetic Materials You Should Avoid
Many clothes are made from synthetic blends, which are not compostable. These include:
- Polyester
- Nylon
- Acrylic
- Elastane (Spandex)
These materials contain plastics and petrochemicals, and they do not break down in home compost systems. In fact, they can contaminate your compost with microplastics.
Tip: Always check the fabric label. If it lists any of the above materials—even as a small percentage—it’s best to avoid composting that item.
How to Compost Clothes Step-by-Step
Ready to get started? Follow these steps:
1. Check the fabric label. Only use 100% natural fibers.
2. Remove any non-compostable parts. This includes zippers, buttons, elastic bands, tags, and synthetic stitching.
3. Cut the fabric into small pieces. Smaller sizes help speed up decomposition.
4. Add to your compost pile. Mix the fabric pieces into the center of your compost to keep them warm and active.
5. Balance with greens and browns. Natural fabrics are considered “browns” (carbon-rich), so balance them with “greens” like food scraps or grass clippings.
6. Turn the compost regularly. This introduces oxygen and speeds up breakdown.
7. Wait 3 to 6 months. Natural fiber clothes should fully decompose in a well-maintained compost bin.
How to Compost Underwear
Yes, even underwear can be composted if it’s made from the right material.
Most traditional underwear contains synthetic elastic waistbands, lace, or spandex blends that are not compostable. These synthetic components not only resist breaking down, but can also introduce microplastics into your soil.
That’s why CUFT® was created: a fully compostable underwear option made with 100% TENCEL™, free from synthetic fibers, elastic, or plastic additives. TENCEL™ is a breathable, hypoallergenic, and compostable fiber derived from sustainably sourced eucalyptus. CUFT® even has a biodegradable waistband rather than a traditional elastic band that carries plastics and potentially harmful additives.
How to Compost CUFT® Underwear
- Confirm it’s a CUFT® pair. CUFT® underwear is made with 100% TENCEL™.
- Cut it into small strips. This helps it break down faster.
- Add to your compost pile. Treat it like any other natural fiber.
- Monitor your bin. It should fully decompose within a few months.
Composting Clothes and Underwear FAQs
Can I compost clothes with stains or dye?
It depends. Natural dyes are safe, but chemical dyes can be toxic to your compost. If you’re unsure, it’s best to skip it or test in a small batch.
CUFT® uses low-impact, OEKO-TEX® certified and Bluesign® approved standard reactive dyes. These were carefully selected to be non-toxic, free from harmful chemicals, and safe for composting.
Can I compost underwear with elastic?
No. Elastic is a synthetic material and does not decompose. You’ll need to cut it off before composting the rest of the underwear.
CUFT®’s waistband is made from a biodegradable band, free of plastic and fully compostable.
How many years can it take for clothes to decompose?
Natural fibers break down in 3–6 months. Synthetics can take decades to centuries—and some never fully disappear.
What fabrics don’t decompose?
Polyester, nylon, acrylic, and spandex do not compost. These are synthetic materials derived from plastic.
Final Thoughts on How to Compost Clothes
Composting clothes is a powerful way to reduce textile waste and support soil health. The key is knowing what your clothes are made of: natural fibers like cotton, wool, and TENCEL™ are your friends, while synthetic materials are best left out of the bin.
CUFT® underwear is not just soft and breathable, it’s 100% compostable, making it a planet-positive choice from your first wear to its final goodbye. Ready to green your underwear drawer? Try CUFT®!
