Materials
In our previous collections until 2024, we used recycled ripstop nylon alongside polyester for its strength and lightweight nature. Starting with the 2025 FLASH collection, we transitioned to a uniform nylon composition across all products. Nylon is stronger than polyester and wears out more slowly, ensuring your bag lasts longer and reducing the need for frequent replacements.
As the transition is recent, some items in stock may still contain a mix of polyester and nylon.
The qualities that make our bags so durable are difficult to replicate with natural materials. When considering longevity, recycled nylon (and polyester in previous collections) remains our most sustainable choice.
We are actively searching for a way to translate these same qualities into other materials. Hopefully, one day, we can say goodbye to all plastics, even recycled ones.
Ripstop
Ripstop means to 'stop' a 'rip'; ripstop fabrics are crafted using a reinforcing technique that enhances their resistance to tearing and ripping. During weaving, more robust (and often thicker) reinforcement yarns are interwoven regularly in a crosshatch pattern.
Small rips in our fabrics are typically inconsequential, thanks to the ripstop technology, which prevents further tearing. While these tiny holes are common and harmless, we offer a repair service if your bag sustains substantial damage or is no longer usable.
Recycled materials
Wherever possible, we avoid using new raw materials. Instead, we make all our fabrics from recycled yarn.
Our recycled nylon thread is derived from post-industrial waste, consisting of remnants from undyed and uncoated fabrics collected during spinning and weaving at our fabric mill.
Other plastic components such as buttons, nylon zippers, and care labels are also sourced from recycled materials. However, for certain elements like our waterproof zipper, we are still actively searching for a suitable recycle for certain elements like our waterproof zippered alternative.
Closed-loop system
Starting with the FLASH collection, we transitioned to a uniform nylon composition across our products. This helps us move towards a system where used products can be turned into new materials.
However, unfortunately, recycling used SUSAN BIJL bags remains a complex process.
The technology needed to recycle post-consumer nylon has not yet advanced sufficiently for commercial use. Nylon requires melting at a lower temperature compared to many other materials for recycling. Thorough cleaning is essential to prevent the survival of dirt and bacteria. Moreover, this recycling process results in weaker nylon compared to post-industrial recycled nylon.
Thankfully, the processes for recycling nylon are improving rapidly. We are seeking a factory to accept our used bags and prevent them from becoming waste, but we have yet to find one.
As a small company, we rely on bigger companies to lead the development of recycling processes for treated fabric compositions. We closely monitor new developments in this field. If you have any information or insights for us, please don't hesitate to contact us here.
Denier
We produce our fabrics in three mass densities, called denier (D).
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40D
We use a thin and smooth nylon composition for our rainwear items. Its supple touch makes it super comfortable to wear.
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70D
The original and most commonly used denier of our fabrics! It resembles the nylon found in kite stores, as used by Susan for the first prototype of the shopping bag.
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From 300D to 500D
From the FLASH collection onwards, 500D recycled nylon replaces our previously used 300D recycled polyester. 500D is a sturdy fabric and is used for our more angular products, such as the bum bag and backpack.
Coating
The coating, applied to the inner side of the fabric, defines the hand feel of our material. It enhances the strength and durability of the fabric while providing water resistance or waterproofing.
Starting with the FLASH collection, we transitioned to a C0 fluorine-free (no fluorinated substances, including PFAS and others) PU coating on our 70D fabrics. The coating on 500D fabric is the same as on 300D fabric and is made from recycled TPE. The coating for 70D has been Bluesign-approved.
In previous collections that might still be in stock, our 70D and 40D coatings were a standard C6 PU coating.
Made without PFAS
Starting with the FLASH collection in 2025, all our coatings have transitioned to non-fluorinated alternatives!
Bluesign© dyeing
Our dye house is Bluesign certified. The Bluesign system aims to address sustainable textile production by eliminating harmful substances throughout the supply chain and approving chemicals, processes, materials, and products that are safe for the environment, the workers and customers. For example, all the water used in the process is thoroughly cleaned before it leaves the factory sewer.
Beyond the fabrics
A product consists of much more than the fabric used. We also ensure that the inside details of our products are made from the best possible materials.
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YULEX®
YULEX® is a natural rubber alternative developed with Patagonia for their neoprene wetsuits. It has replaced the synthetic neoprene used in the past to make laptop pockets and sleeves.
YULEX® presents the same qualities as its predecessor: soft, thick and reliable for many years of protection. -
Hemp
Hemp is renowned for its exceptional durability and longevity, with minimal environmental impact during its growth and processing compared to other natural fibres. As a renewable resource, hemp grows rapidly and robustly in diverse climates, requiring minimal water and enriching the soil by replenishing essential nutrients.
We use hemp for handles and straps. -
Recycled components
We create our labels and zippers from recycled nylon yarn.
For the plastic bottom panel in our medium bum bag, we use ReTraze EcoPanel, which is made from 100% recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) (100% discarded fishing nets).
Do you have tips, information or questions?
Please don't hesitate to contact us at support@susanbijl.nl!