U.S. Textile Consumer & Trade Trends to Watch in 2026

The textile industry in the United States is entering a period of transformation. As consumer behaviors shift and global trade dynamics evolve, distributors and wholesalers have a unique opportunity to realign their strategies. In this post, we explore four major U.S. textile trends—sustainability, nearshoring from Mexico, growth in non-wovens, and advancements in technical textiles—and what they mean for suppliers looking to thrive in 2026 and beyond. These developments are backed by data-driven projections and market insights that highlight the growth opportunities awaiting strategic players.

Sustainable Textiles Are on the Rise in the U.S.

Consumers and buyers increasingly demand eco-friendly materials. Globally, the textile market is expected to surge from USD 2.12 trillion in 2025 to USD 3.04 trillion by 2030, at a CAGR of 7.35%, driven by sustainability and digital innovations. – GlobeNewswire (Agu 22, 2025)

While specific U.S. figures are less abundant, Statista estimates the U.S. “Textiles” sector (value added) will reach USD 21.63 billion in 2025, growing at a modest 1.27% CAGR.
This discrepancy underscores a shift in product mix: high-growth sustainable textiles gaining ground even if broader industry growth remains stable.

Nearshoring—Mexico Takes Center Stage

Nearshoring is reshaping textile supply chains. For the first time in two decades, the U.S. imported more goods from Mexico than from China in 2023—a clear indicator of shifting trade patterns
Advantages include lowered logistics costs, improved delivery times, and enhanced supply chain resilience.

U.S. Non-Wovens Market Accelerates

Non-woven textiles—used in hygiene, medical, automotive, and construction sectors—are experiencing solid growth:

The U.S. non-woven fabrics market generated USD 2,198 million in revenue in 2024, expected to reach USD 3,086 million by 2030 (CAGR 5.8%).
Another projection places the U.S. non-woven market at USD 14.49 billion in 2024, climbing to USD 23.16 billion by 2034 (CAGR 4.8%).
-Claight Corp
Industry reports estimate a 5% CAGR between 2026 and 2032, reaching USD 17.3 billion by 2032.

These non-wovens are gaining adoption in medical disposables, garment interlining, and eco-friendly packaging.

DIY Boom and Crafting Culture in Fabrics

The passion for handmade creations has led to a remarkable increase in demand at both physical and online stores for fabrics and sewing supplies.

The retail sector for fabric, crafts, and sewing supplies generated nearly USD 5.1 billion in revenue in 2024. The surge in crafting culture has driven a 55% growth in digital sewing pattern sales over the past three years and has boosted interest in product usability and customization.

What This Means for Distributors

Expand your sustainable offerings to meet consumer demand and compliance trends.
Diversify your supplier base, especially considering cost-effective, high-quality production from Mexico and SEA partners.
Stay ahead in technical textiles, particularly non-wovens for industrial or automotive applications.
Invest in traceable, innovative supply chains—from sourcing to smart textiles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How fast is the U.S. non-woven textiles market growing?

It is projected to grow at a CAGR between 4.8% and 5.8% through 2030–2034.

2. Why is Mexico becoming more important for U.S. textile imports?

Nearshoring advantages—proximity, reliability, tariff-free trade via USMCA—are driving increased imports from Mexico over other sources.

3. What segments are driving non-wovens growth?

Medical disposables, interlinings in apparel, hygiene products, construction materials, and eco-friendly packaging are the fastest-growing non-woven segments.

4. What are "technical textiles"?

These are fabrics engineered with specific functional properties—antimicrobial, UV-resistant, smart textiles, etc.—to meet industrial and consumer needs.