How much water is used in fabric production?

Water consumption in the textile industry is staggering. Producing a single conventional cotton t-shirt requires approximately 2,700 liters of water, equivalent to what one person drinks over two and a half years. The fashion industry as a whole uses an estimated 79 trillion liters of water annually for growing crops, dyeing fabrics, and finishing processes. Much of this water is consumed in regions already experiencing water stress, compounding the environmental and social consequences.

Different fibers have vastly different water requirements. Conventional cotton is one of the thirstiest crops, often grown with intensive irrigation in arid regions. Organic cotton uses significantly less water because healthier soil retains moisture more effectively. Hemp and linen are naturally drought-resistant and require a fraction of the water that cotton needs. Regenerated fibers like Tencel are produced in closed-loop systems that recycle up to 99% of the water and solvents used in manufacturing.

ONDU curates products from brands that are mindful of their water impact. Brands like Paka, which uses alpaca fiber requiring no irrigation, and Organic Basics, which opts for organic and recycled materials with lower water footprints, represent the kind of water-conscious production we support. By choosing natural, low-impact fabrics, you can significantly reduce the water footprint of your wardrobe.