Corn Fabric, Elevated — Softness with a Lighter Footprint

100% CORN FABRIC

Corn Fabric, Elevated — Softness with a Lighter Footprint

Discover our innovative 100% corn fabric: an ultra-soft, breathable, and sustainable wardrobe staple designed for elevated everyday comfort and a lighter impact on the planet.

  • 100% plant-based
  • Certified sustainable
  • BREATHABLE & DURABLE
  • NATURALLY STRONG
  • CRAFTED IN INDIA

Our Manifesto

01

Most fabrics begin with land, water, and decades of growth.

.

Corn fabric begins with renewable plant resources, transforming harvested corn starch into an exceptional, high-performance bio-based fibre. It delivers a smooth and fluid drape that combines comfort with modern long-term durability, maintaining its shape and luxurious hand feel with each successive wash...

Knowledge primer

What is corn fabric?



Corn fabric, often known as PLA (polylactic acid) fiber or ingeo fiber, is an innovative synthetic yet bio-based textile derived from annually renewable resources like corn starch. Rather than relying on traditional petroleum extraction, the production process utilises natural plant sugars found in corn kernels. These sugars are fermented and polymerised into a versatile polymer, effectively bridging the gap between high-performance synthetics and eco-friendly plant materials.


The manufacturing process of corn fabric significantly reduces environmental strain compared to traditional synthetic fibers. By utilizing plant-based starch, the production cycle generates lower greenhouse gas emissions and consumes a fraction of the fossil fuels required for conventional polyester or nylon. Additionally, because it originates from a fast-growing, renewable agricultural crop rather than finite oil reserves, it stands as a major step forward in sustainable textile engineering.


When it comes to wearability, corn fabric offers an exceptional blend of performance attributes. It features a remarkably soft hand feel, excellent moisture-wicking capabilities, and natural odor resistance, making it exceptionally comfortable for daily wear and active lifestyles alike. Furthermore, the fabric boasts great resilience, and a fluid drape that maintains its shape and structural integrity wash after wash.


At the end of its lifecycle, corn fabric offers distinct environmental advantages over standard plastics. While conventional synthetics persist in landfills for centuries, PLA fibers are biodegradable under industrial composting conditions, eventually breaking down into natural organic elements. This closed-loop potential makes corn fabric an increasingly vital choice for brands and consumers looking to minimize their ecological footprint without compromising on quality or style.


Process

From kernel to garment

A four-step sustainable process. Lower carbon footprint, renewable resources, pure circular innovation.

Step 01

Harvested corn

Harvested from renewable, fast-growing corn crops — a sustainable plant that yields rich starches and plant sugars without requiring heavy non-renewable inputs.

Step 02

Bio-based fiber

Plant sugars are naturally fermented into biopolymers and extruded into fine, smooth fibers, creating a soft, lightweight material with synthetic-like performance and natural comfort.

Step 03

Spun yarn

The refined bio-fibers are precision-spun into exceptionally strong, soft yarn engineered for high breathability and natural moisture-wicking performance.

Step 04

Woven cloth

Yarn is woven and finished into a soft, textured, and breathable fabric that grows more luxurious with every wash.

Why us

Why Moon n Lotus

We were among the early Indian labels to work with certified plant-based regenerated fibres, creating thoughtful pieces from materials derived from things like rose petals, orange peels, bamboo, hemp and more. We source thoughtfully, produce in small batches and increasingly make pieces only as demand requires. Even our fabric remnants are given a new purpose — reimagined as accessories, bags, childrenswear and more. For us, conscious fashion is not about making claims. It is about making better choices, consistently.

"From harvest to hem — corn fabric closes the loop between nature, innovation, and what we wear every day."

— — Pamita Seth, Founder, Moon n Lotus

Compare

How it compares

FeatureCorn FabricHemp FabricCottonLinen
Source Corn plantHemp plant stalkCotton plantFlax plant
Water use ✓✓✗✓
Breathability GoodExcellentGoodExcellent
Hand feel Soft, smoothCrisp, structured, softens over timeSoft, denseCrisp, structured
Biodegradable YesYesYesYes
Wrinkle resistance ModerateLow to moderateModerateLow
Odour resistance ModerateNaturally highModerateModerate
Moisture regain ~0.5%~12%~8.5%~12%
UV protection (UPF) ✓✓✗✓
Recyclability LimitedMechanical & biologicalMechanical onlyMechanical only
End-of-life Industrial composting requiredComposts in ~6–8 weeksComposts in 1–5 monthsComposts in 1–5 months
Microplastic shedding NoneNoneNoneNone
Land use ModerateLow (regenerates soil)HighModerate
Carbon footprint (kg CO₂e/kg) ~1.3~0.9~5.9~2.1
Longevity (regular wear) 5–10 years10+ years2–4 years5–10 years
Dye affinity GoodGood, natural aestheticExcellentModerate
Skin sensitivity Generally safeHypoallergenic, antibacterialGenerally safeGenerally safe

Care

Care & longevity

Wash delicate

Hand Wash or wash on a gentle cycle with cold water to maintain the polymer integrity, prevent fiber distortion, and preserve the smooth texture of the corn fabric over time.

Dry naturally

Air-dry garments in the shade. Keep them away from high-heat tumble dryers, as excessive heat can weaken the bio-based PLA fibers and cause shrinkage.

Press low

Iron on a low temperature setting while the fabric is slightly damp, or use a steamer. Avoid direct high heat to prevent melting or damaging the synthetic bio-polymer structure.

Hang or fold

Store your garments folded or on smooth, supportive hangers to maintain their natural drape and prevent creasing or stretching.

Sustainability

Sustainability

We choose lower-impact materials and processes wherever possible. We share what we know — and what we're still working on.

Low
ACRES OF ARABLE LAND REQUIRED (Grows on diverse terrain, enriches soil)
~40%
LOWER FOSSIL ENERGY USE VS CONVENTIONAL SYNTHETIC POLYESTERS
100%
BIODEGRADABLE AT END OF LIFE (Returns completely safely to nature)

Made from Corn Starch

PLA starts with fermented corn starch, turning a renewable crop into a smooth, comfortable fabric.

Silky Soft Texture

Light, smooth and silky against the skin, with a soft feel made for everyday comfort.

Renewable Plant Source

Corn is a renewable crop, giving PLA a plant-based starting point instead of relying only on petroleum.

Lower-Impact End of Life

PLA can be compostable in the right industrial facilities, and is designed as a lower-carbon alternative to conventional synthetics.

Certifications

GOTS CERTIFIED

Organic Standard

Mostly for hemp & cotton hemp

EPFC STANDARD

Eco Plant Fibre

Ecological Plant Fibre Certification

OEKO-TEX 100

Non-Toxic Dyes

Safe & non-toxic dyes

NATURAL

Shell & Coconut

Natural shell button, coconut buttons

On the body

On the body

A sleek pink high-low tunic crafted from sustainable corn fabric, pairing effortless modern style with fluid breathability.
A sleek pink high-low tunic crafted from sustainable corn fabric, pairing effortless modern style with fluid breathability.
A charming neutral gold colour, bio-based dress offering a soft, lightweight drape and timeless eco-conscious elegance.
A charming neutral gold colour, bio-based dress offering a soft, lightweight drape and timeless eco-conscious elegance.
Effortlessly chic, this textured navy asymmetrical shirt features a flattering cinched waist for a modern, stylish silhouette.
Effortlessly chic, this textured navy asymmetrical shirt features a flattering cinched waist for a modern, stylish silhouette.
Make a statement in this flowing yellow high-low tunic shirt, crafted from sustainable corn fabric for a breathable, eco-conscious look.
Make a statement in this flowing yellow high-low tunic shirt, crafted from sustainable corn fabric for a breathable, eco-conscious look.

FAQ

Frequently asked

What is corn fabric made of?

Corn fabric, also known as PLA (polylactic acid) fabric, is made from the natural sugars found in corn starch. These sugars are fermented and converted into lactic acid, which is then polymerised into PLA fibres. The result is a soft, lightweight, and biodegradable textile that is derived entirely from renewable plant sources — with no petroleum involved.

Is corn fabric truly biodegradable and eco-friendly?

Yes. Corn fabric is one of the most genuinely biodegradable textiles available. Under industrial composting conditions, PLA fibres break down within 3–6 months. Corn fabric production also emits significantly fewer greenhouse gases compared to conventional synthetic fibres like polyester — making it a responsible choice for eco-conscious consumers and sustainable fashion brands.

How does corn fabric compare to cotton, polyester, and bamboo fabric?

Corn fabric can be softer than conventional cotton depending on the weaving process and far more sustainable than polyester, which is petroleum-derived and non-biodegradable. Compared to bamboo fabric, corn fabric has a lower chemical processing footprint when produced responsibly. It offers a smooth hand feel similar to bamboo viscose, but with the added advantage of being compostable at end of life.

Does corn fabric shrink, fade, or lose shape over time?

Corn fabric performs best when hand washed in cold water on a gentle cycle and air-dried away from direct heat. It has low shrinkage under proper care conditions. Avoid high-heat drying, as PLA fibres have a lower heat tolerance than conventional synthetics — this is a natural characteristic of plant-based fibres.

Is corn fabric safe for sensitive skin?

Yes. Corn fabric is naturally hypoallergenic and free from harsh chemical residues in its purest form. Its smooth fibre structure reduces friction against the skin, making it a gentle option for those with sensitive or reactive skin. It is also breathable and moisture-wicking, which helps prevent the skin irritation often caused by synthetic fabrics.

Where is corn fabric sourced and how sustainable is the supply chain?

Our corn fabric is sourced from certified suppliers who use responsible agricultural practices. It holds EPFC & Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certifications

Wear the future of fabric

Limited pieces. Honest making. Crafted to be worn with Love.

SHOP CORN FABRIC