17/03/2026
Most parents probably donât realise that many school uniforms in Australia are made largely from polyester - a plastic fibre derived from fossil fuels.
School uniforms are often expensive because they go from factory through to a supplier (who makes quite a large profit) and then onto the school, who sometimes marks them up for fundraising.
The cost often hides the reality - that uniforms are often made from very cheap, plastic materials.
These fabrics are popular because theyâre durable, and often wrinkle resistant and stain resistant but only because of their chemical coatings such as Teflon technology. And they also trap heat, can irritate sensitive skin, and shed microplastics when worn and washed.
After months of research, conversations with suppliers and sampling fabrics, weâre about to trial something different at my kidsâ regional NSW public school: 100% organic cotton polo shirts.
Natural fibres arenât perfect.
They wrinkle more easily.
They stain more easily.
And they donât stay bright for decades.
But they are breathable, biodegradable and free from plastic, which feels like a better option for something our kids wear every single day.
This small trial is just a first step, but hopefully it opens the door to healthier, more sustainable school uniforms in the future.
If your school would like to explore a short-run organic cotton uniform trial, feel free to reach out. We're cutting out the middleman supplier to make this option more affordable!
đ§ [email protected]
Parents - what are the uniforms made from at your childâs school? Cotton, polyester⌠or a blend?
