11 Best Hemp and Organic Cotton Underwear of 2023
By Wildr Editor
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Shoppers are becoming smarter and more conscious of their fashion choices (like choosing hemp garments) and their impacts on health and the environment.
With fast fashion brands coming under the spotlight by the masses for waste and pollution, the fashion industry is starting to (very slowly) shift their values to align with their customers.
That's why doing our research and opting for healthier fabrics like hemp is so important! While we talked about organic cotton bras, this guide will address the benefits of hemp underwear as an emerging alternative.
Health and Environmental Benefits of Hemp Underwear
Hemp, a powerhouse among natural materials, offers a ton of benefits that make it a top choice for underwear. This sustainable crop is grown using less water and fewer toxic chemicals compared to conventional materials, making it a more environmentally friendly option.
Hey, our lady parts (and men's) need to breathe, too!
This is why hemp fabric is ideal for underwear. Unlike synthetic fabrics that can cause irritation and discomfort, hemp is naturally breathable, which ensures comfort and helps prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria, making it perfect for sensitive skin.
Hemp’s antibacterial properties also keep your underwear fresher for longer, contributing to better hygiene. With its durability and comfort, hemp underwear is an excellent choice for those seeking a health-conscious lifestyle.
The Difference Between Hemp and Organic Cotton
Understanding the difference between organic cotton and hemp can help you make an informed decision about your underwear choices.
Organic Cotton
Organic cotton is a natural fiber that’s celebrated for its softness and comfort. Unlike conventional cotton, organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides or chemical fertilizers, making it a healthier option for your skin and the environment.
It's breathable, hypoallergenic, and has excellent moisture-wicking properties, which is why it’s extremely popular in the underwear industry.
Hemp
Hemp is another sustainable crop and natural fiber that's gaining attention in the fashion industry. Notably robust and durable, hemp fabric is known for lasting longer.
It’s also highly absorbent and naturally resistant to mold and ultraviolet light. Hemp requires less water than cotton to grow and doesn't need harsh chemicals, making it a highly sustainable choice.
Even though both hemp and organic cotton have their distinct characteristics, they often complement each other when blended, bringing together the best of both worlds — underwear that’s soft, comfortable, durable, and sustainable.
The 11 Best Brands for Hemp & Organic Cotton Underwear in 2023
Now, let's dive into the best eco-friendly underwear brands that have been approved by hemp experts. And men, don’t worry — we got you, too.
To start, here are a few of our favorite organic cotton underwear:
Organic Cotton Underwear
1. Only Hearts
Brand: Only Hearts is certified by GOTS, their garments are designed and manufactured in NYC and worn by celebrities including Slick Woods, Lourdes, Cardi B, Hailey Beiber, Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Charlize Theron, Bjork, Kate Moss, Jennifer Aniston, and Scarlett Johansson.
Top Pick — Women: Organic Cotton Thong
Price: $37
2. Araks
Brand: Araks offers not only lingerie, but lounge and swim wear that are all created through sustainable materials like GOTS organic cotton. Araks has supported the start of three women-owned production facilities in New York.
Top Pick — Women: Isabella Panty Shine
Price: $60
3. Pact
Brand: Pact uses GOTS certified organic cotton, and they are Fair Trade certified. They are committed to ethical and sustainable practices throughout their supply chain.
Top Pick — Women: Lace-Waist Brief 6-Pack
Price: $75
Top Pick — Men: Boxer Brief 4-Pack
Price: $64
Hemp Underwear & Bras
4. Wama Underwear
Brand: Wama Underwear is Green America certified, guaranteeing commitment to social and environmental responsibility throughout their production process.
Top Pick — Women: Boy Shorts Underwear
Price: $24
Top Pick — Men: Mens Boxer Briefs
Price: $28
5. EmMeMa
Brand: EmMeMa is certified and digitally printed (with no toxic dyes). They make their garments from small batches in Canada + fair trade production in developing countries.
Top Pick — Women: Mustard Underwear & matching Mustard Bralette
Price: Underwear $29; Bralette $64
6. Afends
Brand: Afends is GOTS and Fairtrade certified, ensuring high-quality materials and a living wage for their workers.
Top Pick — Women: Lolly Hemp Bralettes & matching Lolly Bikini Briefs 3-pack
Price: Bralette $35; Bikini Briefs $65
Top Pick — Men: Absolute Hemp Boxer Briefs
Price: $40
7. Bad (ilovebad)
Brand: Bad essentials are GOTS certified and made in the USA. But hurry, because they’re running low on stock!
Top Pick — Women: 1-pair Hemp & Organic Cotton Underwear
Price: $23
Top Pick — Men: 1-pair Hemp & Organic Cotton Boxer Brief
Price: $27
8. Jungmaven
Brand: Jungmaven is American made and has been an advocate for the hemp industry since 1994 when the founder formed Hemp Industries Association. They lobbied for the 2018 Farm Bill which passed and legalized growing hemp in the US since 1937.
Top Pick — Women: Lines Bralette
Price: $88
9. Object Apparel
Brand: Object Apparel’s clothing is made by hand in Detroit and uses GOTS certified fabric and plant-based natural dyes.
Top Pick — Women: Natural Undies
Price: $46
Top Pick — Men: Hemp Underwear - Mist
Price: $52
10. Rawganique
Brand: Rawganique has been producing quality products without toxic chemicals, acids, pesticides, PVC, BPA, formaldehyde, heavy metals, animal testing, or GMOs for 25+ years.
Top Pick — Women: Sophia 100% Hemp Knit Boy Shorts
Price: $32.95
Top Pick — Men: Joey 100% Organic Hemp Boxer Shorts
Price: $33.95
11. Nomads Hemp Underwear
Brand: Nomads Hemp Underwear is Fairtrade certified, and uses eco-friendly fabrics like hemp, bamboo, and organic cotton to create their wide ranging line of women and men’s apparel.
Top Pick — Women: Aviva Underwear
Price: $24.50 CAD
How to Care for Your Hemp and Organic Cotton Underwear
Let's be real - hemp and organic cotton clothing are more expensive than your average polyester wear.
But you get what you pay for (quality), and since we don't want you to waste your hard-earned dollars, here are a few tips to care for your intimates after you shell out the big bucks:
- Follow the care instructions provided by the brand to avoid damaging the fabric.
- Use eco-friendly detergents free from toxic chemicals that can harm the fabric and potentially irritate your skin.
- Preferably, hand-wash your underwear. If machine washing, use a gentle cycle and consider using a mesh bag to protect the underwear.
- Air-dry your underwear to maintain the integrity of the natural fibers.
- Store properly, preferably laid flat in a drawer to maintain shape and avoid any potential damage.
Read another detailed guide and our top brand picks for fabrics tencel vs. polyester.
The Rise of Sustainable Fashion: Hemp
Embracing underwear made from hemp is more than just a trend; it's a lifestyle hack and a step towards a more sustainable fashion industry.
Choosing hemp means you put your health, comfort, and the well-being of the planet first.
The brands we mentioned above are proving that sustainability and style can go hand in hand, with their range of products that cater to various skin tones and fit preferences.
As you transition your wardrobe to include more sustainable options, remember that every small change contributes to a larger impact on our world. Happy shopping!
