SKL is reader supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn affiliate commission. Learn more here.
Looking for the best sustainable underwear of 2024? The amazing ethical lingerie brands below will help you do a complete top-drawer overhaul. Take a look at these 25 eco-friendly underwear brands women opt for on repeat.
Our personal favorite sustainable and affordable underwear for women come from PACT (organic cotton), Julie May (pure silk and pima cotton), Oddobody (organic cotton), Subset (organic cotton) and Wama (Bamboo). Read on to find out more about these amazing sustainable underwear brands plus so many more!
P.S. Don’t forget to check out our other SKL community blog post listicles, like this sustainable bra list and this nursing bra list.
This post is all about affordable sustainable underwear brands.
Let’s be honest. Stocking up on at least a few pairs of organic underwear is an act of self-care. From sustainable lace underwear for special occasions to wear-me-everywhere seamless sustainable underwear, and everything in between, the best ethical underwear brands are ready to cater to our comfort and style demands.
But, what’s wrong with regular undies, we hear you ask. Unsurprisingly, traditional synthetic fabrics often found in mainstream underwear can trap moisture, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and potentially causing irritation or discomfort.
That basically means you’re more likely to develop a yeast infection, urinary tract infection (UTI), or bacterial vaginosis (BV).
Plus, the chemicals used in the manufacturing and processing of synthetic fabrics can cause sensitivities in some individuals. This can manifest as itching, redness, or other skin reactions.
Luckily for us, there are some seriously cute sustainable underwear for women available in a slew of different colors and prints. Think organic cotton, bamboo, and hemp – just to name a few amazing options.
These materials allow better air circulation, wick away moisture, and are generally gentler on the skin, promoting overall skin health and comfort.
According to Jennifer Wider, MD, women’s health expert and author of The Savvy Woman Patient. “100 percent cotton has less of a chance of vaginal irritation and yeast infections.”
What’s more, ethical underwear brands strive for reduced carbon footprints, support ethical labor practices, and even utilize recycled materials for a more responsible fashion industry.
If you are ready for your next treat-yourself purchase, take a look at the best affordable eco-friendly underwear and lingerie brands below.
What is sustainable underwear?
Sustainable underwear are undergarments that are produced with a focus on minimizing environmental impact and promoting ethical practices throughout their lifecycle.
These undergarments prioritize eco-friendly materials, and ethical manufacturing processes, and often have a reduced carbon footprint compared to conventional options.
Eco-friendly and ethical underwear brands use safe, natural fibers like organic cotton, bamboo, hemp, Tencel, or recycled materials which reduce the potential for skin irritation and environmental pollution associated with traditional synthetic fabrics, dyes, and treatments.
What toxic chemicals are hiding in most undies?
Traditional underwear, often made from synthetic materials such as nylon, polyester, or spandex, can harbor a variety of toxic chemicals that may pose risks to both human health and the environment.
Here are some common toxic chemicals found in conventional underwear materials:
AZO Dyes
AZO dyes are synthetic colorants commonly used in the textile industry, including underwear manufacturing.
Some AZO dyes contain aromatic amines, which, in certain conditions, can break down into carcinogenic compounds.
These compounds are associated with health concerns and may cause skin irritation.
Formaldehyde
Often used in the production of synthetic fabrics to prevent wrinkling and shrinkage, formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen.
Residual traces of formaldehyde can remain in the fabric and may cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and respiratory issues.
Phthalates
Phthalates are plasticizers added to synthetic materials to enhance flexibility and durability.
They are known endocrine disruptors and have been linked to reproductive and developmental issues.
Phthalates can be present in the manufacturing process or leach out over time.
Flame Retardants
Certain synthetic materials used in underwear may be treated with flame-retardant chemicals to meet safety standards.
These chemicals can include halogenated flame retardants, which have been associated with adverse health effects, including disruption of the endocrine system.
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
PFAS are chemicals used for water and stain resistance in fabrics, including underwear.
PFAS have been linked to a range of health issues, and they are persistent in the environment, contributing to long-term ecological concerns.
Chlorine Bleach Residues
Cotton underwear may be treated with chlorine bleach during the manufacturing process. Residual traces of chlorine bleach can remain in the fabric, potentially causing skin irritation and allergies.
To avoid exposure to these toxic chemicals, individuals can opt for sustainable underwear for women made from natural and organic materials.
Organic cotton, bamboo, hemp, and Tencel are examples of sustainable and non-toxic alternatives.
Choosing eco-friendly underwear from brands that prioritize transparency in their manufacturing processes and avoid the use of harmful chemicals can contribute to a healthier and more environmentally friendly wardrobe.
This post is all about affordable sustainable underwear brands.
The Best Affordable Sustainable Underwear Brands In 2024
1. Pact
If you haven’t yet heard of Pact, you are in for a real treat.
They are one of the most affordable sustainable underwear brands on this list and are made of GOTS-certified organic cotton.
Pact not only pays close attention to their entire supply chain but also works with Fair Trade Certified Factories to produce their ethical underwear.
The collection includes performance underwear with organic, non-GMO cotton as well as sustainable underwear pack options in an array of colors and prints.
Price Range: From $14+ for the “Everyday Classic Fit Bikini”
Discount Code: SKL15 to get 15% off for first-time customers – Full-priced items only and cannot be used with other offers
Size Range: XS-XXL
Materials: Organic cotton, elastane
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
Best Organic Underwear from Pact:
2. Julie May
If you are looking for the best natural allergy-friendly underwear, Julie May’s certified sustainable organic cotton underwear is for you.
Chic, classic, and drenched in pastels, their sustainable lace underwear and basic undies are moisture-wicking and naturally breathable crafted from pure silk and Pima cotton.
Don’t forget to check out their fair trade bralettes!
Price Range: From $27+ for the “Silk & Organic Cotton Brief”
Discount Code: JULIEMAY for 10% off your first order
Size Range: 8-18
Materials: Organic pima cotton, 100% pure silk
Location/Shipping: UK, ships worldwide
Organic Cotton & Silk Panties from Julie May:
3. Oddobody
Oddobody’s super soft organic undies are Fair Trade sewn with GOTS-certified organic cotton that will make you forget you’re wearing anything at all!
The brand’s organic pima cotton is harvested by hand, and their entire supply chain supports and prioritizes healthy working conditions and environmental protections.
They offer a wide range of briefs, tangas, bikinis, or thongs.
A Few Favorites from Oddobody:
Price Range: From $22+ for the “Tanga”
Size Range: XS-XXXL
Materials: GOTS Organic pima cotton
Location/Shipping: United States, ships to Canada
4. Cosabella
When it comes to sustainable lace underwear, Cosabella has us covered.
Every luxurious piece is handmade by local artisans who have utilized Renaissance-era techniques to craft eco-friendly underwear since 1983.
You can find more than 2,000 bras, panties, and lingerie in a slew of different colors knowing that they only use natural dyes in the brand’s color lab.
Best Ethical Lingerie from Cosabella:
Price Range: From $19.75+ for the “Skimpie G-String”
Size Range: US 2-12 | P-3X
Materials: Cotton, polyamide, elastane
Location/Shipping: Italy, ships worldwide
5. Wama Underwear
Wama is touted as one of the best affordable eco-friendly underwear brands made from sustainable and organic hemp fabric that is free from pesticides, herbicides, and other harmful chemicals.
They offer a blend of organic hemp and 44% GOTS organic cotton, ethically made in BSCI-certified ethical factories in China.
Their affordable ethical underwear is not only antibacterial with anti-odor properties but also extremely cute and comfy.
Top Recommended Hemp Underwear from Wama:
Price Range: From $24+ for the “Hemp Bikini”
Size Range: XS-4XL
Materials: Organic cotton, hemp, spandex
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
6. Wuka
When it comes to the most sustainable period underwear, Wuka is the champion in creating highly absorbing ethically sourced, and manufactured products.
The brand uses 100% vegan and chemical-free GOTS organic cotton, Tencel Modal made from sustainable beech trees, and Econyl made from plastic waste.
Furthermore, they ship their fair trade underwear from the UK in FSC-certified packaging.
Currently, there are 7 different collections available – now, that’s impressive.
A Few Favorites from Wuka:
Price Range: From $11+ for the “Thong”
Size Range: S-6XL
Materials: TENCEL Modal, elastane
Location/Shipping: UK, ships worldwide
7. Allbirds
Named as one of the affordable sustainable underwear brands, All Birds’ renewable materials are here to minimize odor and wick moisture.
Their carbon-neutral, performance underwear is crafted from Tencel, Lyocell, recycled nylon, and ZQ Merino Wool which makes them antibacterial and thermoregulating!
The brand is also B-certified and constantly buys offsets to minimize their impact.
Best Ethical Underwear from AllBirds:
Price Range: From 416+ for the “Anytime Thong”
Size Range: XS-XXXL
Materials: Organic cotton, TENCEL™ Lyocell, spandex
Location/Shipping: United States
8. Subset
Non-toxic sustainable underwear that is actually affordable and fair trade certified? Yes!
Subset’s wide range of sustainable organic cotton underwear is GOTS-certified and “soaked” in OEKO-TEX-approved dyes.
On top of that, you can send them your worn-to-death undies to be recycled into mattress fillings, etc.
From bralettes and thongs to briefs, this inclusive underwear brand has everything!
Best Sustainable Underwear from Subset:
Price Range: From $18+ for the “High-Rise Thong”
Size Range: 2XS-3XL
Materials: Organic cotton, nylon, elastane
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
9. Boody
The anti-fast fashion brand Boody wants to upgrade our top drawer with OEKO-TEX-certified organic bamboo sets and much more affordable ethical underwear.
Their collections include incredibly breathable, soft, and fair trade underwear from FSC®-certified forests that promise to keep us cool and comfy all year long.
The brand also proudly adheres to a strict Code of Conduct.
Best Sustainable Bamboo Underwear from Boody:
Price Range: From $13.95+ for the “Boyleg Brief”
Size Range: XS-XL
Materials: Viscose made from bamboo, nylon, spandex
Location/Shipping: United States
10. Made Trade
Made Trade’s virtual shelves are chock-full of affordable eco-friendly underwear brands women love!
Rest assured that everything is verified ethically and crafted from eco thread, and other rescued materials.
You can also score some coveted ethical underwear from bamboo!
Additionally, every order is 100% carbon-neutral, handcrafted, and made in the USA.
Best Sellers from Made Trade:
Price Range: From $20+ for the “Rainbow Stripe Underwear”
Size Range: XS-2X
Materials: Organic cotton, rayon from bamboo, spandex, elastane
Location/Shipping: United States
11. Proclaim
From organic cotton and hemp mid-rise briefs, biker briefs, and comfy thongs in an array of colors, PROCLAIM’s sustainable women’s underwear collection deserves your attention.
The eco-conscious brand also uses excess fabric and trims from their previous underwear production as well as sustainable-sourced fibers to create safe and hypoallergenic undies.
All pieces are then dyed using low-impact dyes locally in Los Angeles to further minimize their carbon footprint.
They also offer an array of bralettes, bodysuits, tank tops, and chic slip dresses in beautiful neutral colors.
Best Sustainable Underwear from Proclaim:
Price Range: From $24+ for the “Thong”
Size Range: S-3X
Materials: Organic cotton, hemp, Tencel™ Modal, spandex
Location/Shipping: United States, ships to Canada, UK, New Zealand, Australia
12. MeUndies
MeUndies’ extensive collection of size-inclusive, ethical underwear comes in a wide variety of colors, new limited-edition prints, and styles.
You can choose between hipsters, cheeky briefs, bikinis, boyshorts, thongs, and more styles knowing that they are made from ethically sourced, breathable organic cotton and low-impact dyes.
If you love fun, bold fair trade underwear, this brand is for you.
Best Sustainable Underwear from MeUndies:
Price Range: From $20+ for the “Bikini”
Size Range: XS-4XL
Materials: MicroModal®, elastane
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
13. Organic Basics
For the best affordable sustainable underwear brands, look no further than Organic Basics.
They have a great variety of GOTS-certified organic cotton sets with subtle hints of TENCEL™ Lyocell for extra stretch.
The brand is also BSCI-compliant and a member of Sedex while also offering carbon-neutral shipping worldwide.
Plus, through their Regenerative Organic Cotton Pilot Project, 2.43 tonnes of waste was saved from getting dumped in landfills!
Best Non-Toxic Underwear from Organic Basics:
Price Range: From $10+ for the “Core Thong”
Size Range: XXS-XXL
Materials: Organic cotton, recycled cotton, recycled nylon, TENCEL™ Lyocell, elastane
Location/Shipping: Denmark, ships worldwide
14. Wear Kent
Wear Kent makes the most gorgeous 100% organic cotton underwear that is plastic-free, landfill-free, and compostable at end-of-life!
Their sustainable underwear collection includes organic cotton briefs, thongs, and bikinis as well as comfy crop tops for everyday wear.
Be sure to check out their sets: For under $150, you can snag a full week’s worth of undies, which includes 7 signature styles in 9 different colors.
A Few Favorites from Wear Kent:
Price Range: From $24+ for the “Organic Cotton Hipster”
Size Range: XS-3XL
Materials: GOTS organic pima cotton
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
15. Modibodi
Modibodi is not only one of the most affordable sustainable underwear brands but also very inclusive.
Their period and pee-proof performance underwear are 100% biodegradable as well as OEKO-TEX certified.
For every sustainable period underwear sold, another one is donated via the Give A Pair program.
You can filter your search by category or absorbency – the fair trade underwear options are so many!
A Few Favorites from Modibodi:
Price Range: From $29+ for the “Seamfree Thong”
Size Range: 2XS-2XL
Materials: Bamboo viscose, merino wool, recycled nylon, polyester, polyamide, elastane
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
16. Woronstore
Woronstore is amongst the best affordable sustainable underwear brands that constantly run sales!
They are based in Copenhagen and craft their fair trade underwear from natural breathable materials made especially for women’s comfort.
Think Lenzing Modal, GOTS-certified cotton, with no toxic dyes or chemicals.
Ethical Underwear from Woronstore:
Price Range: From $27+ for the “Hi Cut Panties”
Size Range: XS-XXL
Materials: Beech wood pulp
Location/Shipping: Denmark, ships worldwide
17. Honest Basics
Hailed as one of the best ethical underwear brands Europe has to offer, Honest Basics is GOTS-certified and surprisingly affordable.
Their fair trade underwear is made from ethically sourced, vegan, and PETA-approved, recycled fabrics like Tencel and organic cotton.
On top of that, you can enjoy climate-neutral shipping!
Price Range: $23 (3-Pack)
Size Range: XS-XL
Materials: Organic cotton, elastane
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
18. Terrera
The amazing, Canada-based, women-led brand Terrera offers an array of OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 Certified clothing and sustainable undies using top-quality natural fibers, such as viscose from bamboo.
In addition to using a closed-loop manufacturing process, they also have a genuine care for everyone involved in producing their pieces, from farms to factories.
On their virtual shelves, you can find bralettes, full briefs, thongs, classic cut undies, as well as cami tops and bra tanks.
Price Range: $32.50
Size Range: S-XL
Materials: 77% viscose from bamboo, 17% nylon, 6% spandex
Location/Shipping: Canada, ships to the United States, UK, Germany, Hong Kong
19. Huha
For Huha, being simply one of the best ethical underwear brands isn’t enough.
The brand thrives on inclusivity, body positivity, and confidence.
Their “undercare” features a seam-free gusset infused with soothing minerals packed with antibacterial and odor-reducing properties.
Their unique full-coverage liners have a cult following, but they also carry affordable ethical underwear packs women wear on repeat.
Price Range: From $24+ for the “Brief”
Size Range: 2XS-3XL
Materials: TENCEL™ Modal Micro, TENCEL™ Lyocell, spandex
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
20. Hara The Label AUD
Hara The Label is amongst the top affordable sustainable underwear brands thanks to their OEKO-TEX 100 plant-dyed bamboo fabrics and sexy, yet comfy fair trade underwear.
Every piece is manufactured in the brand’s factory in Australia.
Furthermore, they are very size-inclusive and don’t shy away from color!
Price Range: AUD $10
Size Range: XS-4XL
Materials: Lyocell bamboo, spandex
Location/Shipping: Australia, ships worldwide
21. Underprotection
While most sustainable underwear brands for women keep things simple, the B-certified Underprotection focuses on chic textures and flirty cuts.
Their collection is a treasure trove of elegant underwear including lacey high-string pieces, hipster briefs, and classic undies made from soft recycled materials.
Plus, all feminine undies are manufactured ethically in Bulgaria, at an OEKO-TEX® and BSCI-certified factory. So, so pretty!
Price Range: From $40+ for the “Gina String Creme”
Size Range: XS-XL
Materials: Organic cotton, recycled polyamide, recycled elastane
Location/Shipping: Denmark, ships worldwide
22. Maggie Organics
Crafted from 90% organic cotton featherweight fabric, Maggie Organics’ sustainable women’s underwear collection offers a luxurious feel with a stretchy, flexible fit.
All styles feature a smooth, covered elastic waistband designed to stay in place without rolling.
Plus, the flatlock seams ensure a smooth feel against your skin, minimizing irritation.
To top it all off, all undies are produced in India by skilled artisans with a strong commitment to fair labor practices and social responsibility.
Price Range: From $33+ for the “Bikini 2 Pack”
Size Range: XS-XXL
Materials: Organic cotton, spandex
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
23. Arq
For Arq, size inclusivity and comfort are non-negotiable.
As one of the most ethical underwear brands, their collection runs the gamut from organic cotton briefs and full-coverage bras to bodysuits.
You can opt for plain-sustainable cotton underwear or take advantage of their multiple print options!
Price Range: From $24+ for the “Lou Undies”
Size Range: XXS-4X
Materials: Organic cotton, spandex
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
24. Discreture
Discreture’s affordable ethical underwear is made from organic cotton and proudly carries the Fair Trade Certified Seal.
As one of the best affordable sustainable underwear brands, they offer a stellar subscription service that allows us to cop 3, 4, or 5 pairs per month hassle-free.
Alternatively, you can shop for your favorite sustainable cotton underwear individually. How cool is that?
Price Range: From $18+ for the “Boyshort”
Size Range: 2XS-3XL
Materials: Organic cotton, spandex
Location/Shipping: United States, ships worldwide
25. Cora Happywear
Cora Happywear’s GOTS, FairWear, and OEKO-TEX® certified affordable ethical underwear are crafted from super soft antibacterial bamboo and eucalyptus fiber with 30% of organic cotton.
Their collections are produced in Italy, Greece, and Turkey with water-based colors.
Plus, the prints are so cute!
Price Range: From €14.90+ for the “Eucalyptus Fiber Amanda”
Size Range: XS-XL
Materials: Organic cotton, Tencel, eucalyptus, elastane
Location/Shipping: Italy, ships to Europe
Sustainable Underwear FAQs:
What is the most sustainable underwear?
In 2024, there are dozens of sustainable and ethical underwear brands that promise to deliver eco-friendly, antibacterial, and odor-reducing undies straight to your doorstep.
Amidst the many eco-friendly underwear brands, Organic Basics, Honest Basics, Cosabella, Juliemay, Made Trade, Pact, and All Birds reign supreme.
Is organic cotton underwear the best?
Organic cotton underwear is better than most fibers due to its antibacterial, and odor-reducing abilities. The best ethical underwear brands use breathable and absorbent GOTS-certified cotton to eliminate vaginal problems such as irritation and infections.
On top of that, organic cotton requires no chemicals, fertilizers, or pesticides to produce, and thus it’s the most eco-friendly underwear option as well. We also really love Tencel, silk, and modal underwear as well.
What to consider when choosing sustainable underwear for women?
Organic fabrics
Organic Cotton: Known for its softness, breathability, and reduced use of pesticides, organic cotton is a comfortable and environmentally friendly option.
Bamboo: A sustainable and rapidly renewable resource, the bamboo fabric offers a soft feel, excellent moisture-wicking properties, and biodegradability.
Tencel (Lyocell): Made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, Tencel is known for its silky feel, breathability, and minimal environmental impact.
Hemp: Durable and absorbent, hemp has four times the strength of cotton; It won’t weaken when washed. Plus, hemp retains color better than any other fabric. And it saves water!
Low-Impact Dyes: Opt for underwear made with low-impact or natural dyes, minimizing the use of harmful chemicals and reducing water pollution.
Sustainability certifications
Fair Trade Certification: Look for brands with Fair Trade certification, ensuring that workers involved in the production process are treated ethically and paid fair wages.
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): This certification ensures that the fabric is organic and meets strict environmental and social criteria.
OEKO-TEX®: Certifies that the product is free from harmful substances, promoting health and safety.
Comfort and Fit
Keep in mind that seamless underwear reduces irritation and provides a smooth fit, enhancing comfort.
It’s also important to choose sustainable underwear with flexible and durable elastic that offers a secure fit without compromising comfort. Look for reinforcement in high-friction areas to extend the lifespan of the underwear.
Lastly, opt for sustainable underwear brands that use minimal, eco-friendly packaging, reducing waste and environmental impact.
How do I wash and care for sustainable underwear?
Firstly, always check the care labels on your underwear for specific instructions from the manufacturer.
Handwashing or using the gentle machine wash cycle are both great ways to prevent excessive wear and tear.
Choose a mild, eco-friendly detergent to reduce chemical impact on the environment.
Make sure to wash your sustainable underwear in cold water to conserve energy and prevent colors from fading.
P.S. Separate dark and light colors to prevent color bleeding during washing.
Skip fabric softeners as they can contain chemicals harmful to the environment and may affect the fabric’s performance.
Air-dry your underwear instead of using a dryer to save energy and preserve fabric elasticity.
Most sustainable fabrics are wrinkle-resistant, reducing the need for ironing. So, make sure to avoid excessive heat to maintain fabric integrity.
This post was all about affordable sustainable underwear brands.
Long gone are the days when fair trade underwear was plain, classic, and downright boring. Thanks to the best affordable sustainable underwear brands, women, we can now get our hands on the cutest sustainable cotton underwear to get us through all our future busy days.
In case you are on the lookout for sustainable lace underwear or even eco-friendly period underwear, the aforementioned ethical underwear brands have something special for you too.
If you enjoyed this article on Affordable Sustainable Underwear Brands, check out these other articles below!
- 15 Best PFAS-Free and Organic Period Underwear, Reviewed!
- The 15 Best Organic Cotton Underwear Brands in 2024
- 17 Best Sustainable Men’s Underwear Brands For Organic & Ethical Skivvies
+ show Comments
- Hide Comments
add a comment