The weather is rapidly cooling down, and while its a bitter sweet ending to summer, we are so excited for fall. Because fall brings all the cozy vibes in! Think pumpkin spice, and fireside chats, with blankets and of course all our favorite sweaters. Which has got me thinking that so many “trendy” knits and sweaters I’ve picked up over the years aren’t so great quality. I’ve gotten rid of SO many polyester and synthetic material sweaters, that it’s time to find some new non-toxic, real fabric sweaters.
You know what else is great about clothing made with REAL fabric? It has a WAY better feel, and it’s usually more breathable. When I go into stores I am always turning clothing inside out to check the fabric labels before buying new clothes.
What Makes a Sweater “Non-Toxic”?
For me a “non-toxic sweater,” means clothing made from natural fibers with as few synthetic materials as possible. There isn’t an official certification that makes a piece of clothing “non-toxic,” so I prefer to look at the actual fabric composition and available textile certifications.
For this guide, we are looking at:
- 90–100% natural fibers, including organic cotton, merino wool and cashmere
- little to no polyester, acrylic or nylon
- GOTS-certified organic cotton when available
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification when available
- clothing that can be washed at home rather than requiring conventional dry cleaning
Natural doesn’t automatically mean chemical-free, especially because dyes and finishing treatments can still be used during manufacturing. That’s why I consider these lower-tox, natural-fiber alternatives rather than claiming that every garment is completely chemical-free.
If you’re trying to build a more natural, lower-tox wardrobe without giving up cute fall clothes, here are 10 natural fiber sweaters and knits I’m loving for Fall 2026.
1. Simons 100% Wool Argyle Knit Sweater
OBSESSED with this look.
Why I like it: Made from 100% wool with no polyester or acrylic, making it a great natural-fiber alternative to conventional synthetic sweaters.
It’s also hand washable, so you can skip traditional dry cleaning!
2. Quince 100% Mongolian Cashmere Fisherman Sweater
Fall = Browns are in.
Why I like it: This Quince sweater is made from 100% Grade-A Mongolian cashmere with no polyester or acrylic blend. Cashmere is a natural animal fiber, that is soft, and lightweight.
Available in multiple colors to suit your style!
3. MATE the Label 100% Organic Cotton Waffle Half-Zip
Did someone say half-zip?
Why I like it: One of my favorite finds for a lower-tox wardrobe. This half-zip is made from 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton. MATE also states that the product is made without PFAS, formaldehyde, BPA or pesticides. Plus who doesn’t love the versatility of a half-zip sweater!
4. Pact Organic Cotton CloudKnit Hoodie
The one basic we all need! If you don’t have a black hoodie what are you doing?
Why I Like it: Made from 97% organic cotton with just 3% elastane for stretch. Pact uses GOTS-certified organic cotton and Fair Trade Certified factories, and states that its certified fabrics are free from toxic dyes, harsh chemicals and PFAS.
5. Pact Organic Cotton CloudKnit Raglan Crew
Another essential by Pact. The crewneck.
Why I like it: Made from 97% GOTS-certified organic cotton with just 3% elastane for stretch. It’s a great alternative to traditional fleece sweatshirts, which are often made largely from polyester. The brushed cotton fabric gives you that cozy feel while keeping synthetic content to a minimum.
It ALSO has a matching jogger available to make the perfect set!
6. Simons 100% Organic Cotton Corduroy Shirt
It’s giving COZY
Why I like it: Made from 100% organic cotton with no polyester or synthetic fiber blend, this is a great lower-tox alternative to conventional corduroy shirts. I also like that it’s machine washable and doesn’t require dry cleaning.
7. UNIQLO 100% Merino Wool Cardigan
Feeling Blue? Or else it comes in 8 other colors.
Why I like it: This affordable cardigan is made from 100% merino wool. I love it as an accessible natural-fiber alternative to the synthetic sweaters that dominate most high-street stores. UNIQLO also has company-wide chemical-management standards and says it has eliminated intentional PFAS use.
8. Banana Republic 100% Organic Cotton Crew-Neck Sweater
Pretty in Pink.
Why I like it: Made from 100% certified organic cotton with no polyester or synthetic fiber blend, this is a great option for anyone trying to build a more natural-fiber wardrobe. It’s also machine washable, making it an easy everyday alternative to synthetic knitwear.
9. Quince 100% Organic Cotton Boyfriend Crew Sweater
Butter yellow in autumn? Yes Please!
Why I like it: Made from 100% organic cotton with no polyester or synthetic fiber blend. The material is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified and produced through Organic Content Standard-inspected processes.
At $55 CAD, it’s one of the more affordable natural-fiber sweater options available.
10. Quince 100% Merino Wool Cropped Mock Neck
Lastly, a white turtleneck.
Why I like it: This one is all elegance. Made from 100% Australian merino wool with no polyester or acrylic blend. Merino is naturally breathable, warm, and moisture-absorbing.
What Natural Fibers Should You Look for in Sweaters?
Organic Cotton
Organic cotton is my favourite option for clothing material, especially sweaters and sweatshirts. Look for 100% organic cotton whenever possible, particularly products with certifications such as GOTS or OEKO-TEX. However you do have to be a little balanced, if an item is 90% organic cotton and 10% other materials, it’s still a great buy!
Wool and Merino Wool
Wool is naturally insulating and breathable, making it extremely comfortable for fall and winter knitwear. A 100% wool sweater also avoids the acrylic and polyester blends commonly used in inexpensive knitwear.
Cashmere
Cashmere is another completely natural animal fiber. A high-quality 100% cashmere sweater can be incredibly soft and warm without relying on synthetic fibers.
What About Elastane?
A small amount of elastane is sometimes added for stretch and shape retention. For example, the Pact pieces in this guide contain 3% elastane and 97% organic cotton. I personally still consider this a great option compared to my 100% polyester sweater I used to have!
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