The 10 Best Clothing Manufacturers for Startups

Alright, listen up. If you’re sitting there with a sketch of a hoodie on your laptop, dreaming of a brand that actually sells, you’ve got one critical puzzle piece missing: the right manufacturer. Not just any factory—the right one. And trust me, getting this wrong isn’t just a delay; it’s a slow-motion crash into customer service nightmares, return piles taller than your ego, and a reputation you’ll spend years trying to scrub off.

I’ve helped launch over 37 startup brands—from indie streetwear labels to eco-conscious activewear lines—and I can tell you flat out: the first decision you make about production? That’s the foundation. Screw it up early, and no amount of Instagram ads will save you. You need someone who gets your vision, not just your order sheet.

So, I’ve done the legwork. Not the glossy “top 10” list you see everywhere. This is real talk. These are the factories I’ve worked with, tested, and even argued with—because they matter. Every single one on this list has been vetted in the real world, not just on a website. No fluff. No fake testimonials. Just what actually works when you’re running on a shoestring budget and zero runway.

And if you’re still stuck wondering how to pick fabric for sportswear without breaking the bank or killing your margins, check out this deep dive on fabric recommendations for sportswear . It saved one client $220k in returns last year—more on that later.

Now, let’s get into the names that made it.

#1 Fexwear – The All-in-One Factory That Actually Cares

Look, I’m not gonna lie—this one’s a little biased because I run this place. But hear me out. Fexwear isn’t just another Chinese factory hiding behind a fancy website. We’re a full-service partner built for startups who don’t have a team of sourcing experts. We handle everything from fabric sourcing and sample development to bulk production, QC, and shipping. Think of us as your outsourced operations arm.

We’ve been in the game since 2003, but we didn’t grow by chasing big brands. We grew by helping small ones survive their first drop. Our key strength? We understand the pain points. You’re not a Fortune 500 company. You’re scrambling. So we built systems that work at scale—but also for tiny batches.

Our core products? Hats, t-shirts, hoodies, swimwear, sleepwear—basically anything that starts with “casual.” But here’s the kicker: we don’t just stitch. We test. We audit. We track every yard of fabric like it’s our own baby.

We’ve had clients come to us with sketches drawn on napkins. We’ve turned those into market-ready garments in under 6 weeks. One founder sent us a hand-drawn logo and said, “Make it look like it’s from the ‘80s.” We did. And it sold out in three days.

But here’s the thing most people miss: quality control isn’t a checkbox. It’s a process. At Fexwear, every batch goes through at least four inspection points—before cutting, after sewing, before packaging, and pre-shipment. We’ve seen brands lose thousands because a single dye lot was off by 2%—and no one caught it until the warehouse was full.

If you’re serious about launching a brand that lasts, not just a quick cash grab, start here. Seriously. We’re not just a vendor—we’re a co-pilot.

Check out our full service offerings —we’ve got the tools to turn your idea into a product, no matter how rough the sketch.

#2 Shandong Jining Ruyi Woolen Textile Co Limited – The Wool Whisperers

Okay, so you’re thinking about luxury wool pieces. Maybe a winter coat line. Or high-end knitwear for an elevated lifestyle brand. You want something that feels expensive without costing a fortune. That’s where Ruyi comes in.

This isn’t some random textile mill. They’re a massive operation with over 30 subsidiaries. Their worsted wool fabrics? Used by European designers and luxury retailers. But here’s the secret: they do work with startups. They just don’t advertise it.

Their R&D team? Over 200 professionals. That’s not a number—they’re real people. I’ve sat in meetings with them. They’ll walk you through fiber blends, weave structures, and even suggest modifications based on your climate zone. One client wanted a wool sweater that wouldn’t pill after washing. Ruyi tweaked the twist ratio and added a micro-fiber blend. Result? A 40% reduction in pilling. Sold out in two months.

But let’s be honest—Ruyi isn’t cheap. Their prices reflect the quality. But if you’re building a premium brand, that cost is justified. You’re not selling “a sweater”—you’re selling an experience.

They export to over 60 countries. Their QC system is tight—ISO-certified, with traceability from farm to finished garment. But the real win? They’ll help you source sustainable wool. Yes, even ethically certified. They’ve got partnerships with farms that meet RWS standards.

If you’re aiming for high-end, long-lasting pieces, Ruyi is worth the investment. Just know: lead times are longer than average. Don’t rush it. Quality takes time.

#3 Shenzhen Teesso Clothing Co., Ltd. – The Budget King with a Slow Burn

Shenzhen Teesso? Oh man. This one’s a classic case of “you get what you pay for—but sometimes you pay too much.”

Teesso has a monthly capacity of 1.2 to 1.8 million pieces. That’s insane. They’re not small. They’re not boutique. They’re a machine. And they know it.

The good news? They deliver high-quality knits at a fraction of the price of competitors. I’ve seen polo shirts from Teesso that looked identical to those from brands charging $40 more per piece. And the fabric? Durable. Breathable. Good stitching.

But here’s the catch: turnaround time. This is the biggest pain point. We once had a client who needed 10,000 hoodies in 4 weeks. Teesso said “possible,” but the actual delivery was 8 weeks. Why? Because they prioritize volume over speed. They’re not built for rush jobs.

Also, communication can be… inconsistent. Emails go unanswered. Calls get missed. One of my favorite stories: a client sent a design file, and the factory returned a mock-up with two different sleeves—one long, one short. Turns out, the designer misread the layout. No one caught it until the samples arrived.

So yes, Teesso is a great option if you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind waiting. But if you’re launching a seasonal collection or need fast feedback, look elsewhere.

Still, their craftsmanship is solid. And if you’re patient, they’ll deliver. Just build that extra month into your timeline.

#4 H&Fourwing – The Underdog With Heart

H&Fourwing started in 2014 in Ningbo, China. Small. Young. Obscure. But they’ve been quietly gaining traction—especially among female-founded fashion brands.

What sets them apart? They’ve got their own design, R&D, production, sales, and after-sales teams. That’s rare. Most factories outsource half of that. H&Fourwing does it all in-house. That means better coordination, fewer miscommunications, and faster revisions.

They specialize in women’s dresses—floral, boho, bodycon, you name it. And honestly? They do them well. I’ve seen their samples go viral on TikTok. One dress from a startup brand got featured in a major influencer campaign. The client told me, “It looked like it came from a $200 label.”

But here’s the rub: customer service is hit-or-miss. Some reps are super responsive. Others disappear for days. One client reported that after sending five follow-ups, they finally got a reply that said, “We’ll get back to you next week.” Next week never came.

Still, their quality? Solid. Their pricing? Competitive. And their attention to detail? Surprisingly good. If you’re okay with a bit of chaos in the process, H&Fourwing can be a gem.

Just keep a backup contact. And always double-check the final samples. Don’t assume everything’s perfect just because it looks good.

#5 Shenzhen Doven Garment Co., Ltd. – The Value Player

Doven is the kind of factory that makes sense for founders who are bootstrapping it. They’re flexible. They’ll take on OEM and ODM projects. They’ve got an in-house design team. And their prices? Rock-bottom.

They make T-shirts, polo shirts, jackets, hoodies, vests, sweaters, windbreakers, blazer pants, shorts, tracksuits—basically, anything you’d need for workwear, staff uniforms, or promotional gear.

Here’s the truth: their quality is good enough for most startups. I’ve used them for multiple client projects. No major issues. But—and this is important—they’re not the best for premium branding.

One client wanted a custom-fit polo with a unique collar structure. Doven delivered, but the stitching was uneven. The collar sagged after two washes. Another client had a color shift between batches. Not huge, but noticeable.

So why do I recommend them? Because they’re affordable. And for a brand that’s just starting, that’s everything.

But here’s my rule of thumb: if you’re spending less than $10 per shirt, expect compromises. And if you’re selling on Shopify or Amazon, where customers compare images side-by-side, those flaws show up fast.

Still, if you’re making basic tees for a local pop-up shop or a small event, Doven is a solid choice. Just don’t expect perfection.

#6 Natural Clothing US – The Eco-Warrior in Seattle

This one’s different. Not just because it’s based in Washington State, but because it’s run by a husband-and-wife team in a rural area near Seattle. No corporate HQ. No PR team. Just two people who saw toxins in everyday clothes and decided to do something about it.

Natural Clothing US started in 2008. They use bamboo, soy, hemp, and organic cotton. Everything is made in the USA. And yes, they’re a Certified B Corporation—meaning they meet rigorous social and environmental standards.

This isn’t just marketing. I’ve visited their facility. The air smells clean. The workers wear safety gear. The machines are old but well-maintained. They recycle water. They compost scraps.

Their clothes? Soft. Breathable. Sustainable. And priced reasonably—especially for what you’re getting.

But here’s the downside: size range is limited. I’ve seen clients struggle to find XL or XXL options. One brand lost a potential retail buyer because they couldn’t accommodate plus sizes.

Also, their MOQs are higher than some others. Not crazy high, but if you’re testing a new style with only 50 units, you might not qualify.

Still, if your brand is built on ethics, transparency, and sustainability, Natural Clothing US is a top-tier partner. They’re not just making clothes—they’re making a statement.

#7 Organic Apparel Business Enterprise – The Premium Eco-Factory

Based in Florida, Organic Apparel Business Enterprise has been around since 2006. They’ve built a reputation on being one of the most reliable organic clothing manufacturers globally.

Their philosophy? “Satisfied customers are the best advertisement.” And they’ve proven it. Clients come back again and again.

They focus on organic materials—GOTS-certified cotton, hemp, linen—and use low-impact dyes. Their processes are environmentally friendly. They even track carbon emissions per batch.

But here’s the trade-off: price. Their products are expensive. Not because they’re greedy—because organic materials and ethical labor costs money.

And customization? Limited. They’re not set up for wild, experimental designs. They’re best for clean, minimalist styles—think modern basics, simple silhouettes.

Still, if you’re building a brand that lives for sustainability, this is a non-negotiable. Retailers demand certifications. Consumers pay a premium. And Organic Apparel Business Enterprise delivers.

Just be ready to invest.

#8 Euphoric Colors – The Full-Service Dream Machine (That’s Closed)

Euphoric Colors in Los Angeles? Legendary. Full-service private label manufacturer. Design, pattern making, sourcing, manufacturing, logistics—all under one roof.

They’ve been around since 1998. They’ve worked with global brands. They offer embroidery, sublimation, appliqué—everything.

And their quality? Top-notch. Customer service? Excellent. They’ll go the extra mile.

But here’s the kicker: they’re not accepting new clients right now. I’ve heard rumors they’re expanding. But as of today, they’re closed for business.

So while I can’t recommend them for now, I’m including them because they represent the ideal: a one-stop-shop that handles every step of your brand’s journey. If they open up again, I’d be first in line.

#9 ARGYLE Haus – The LA Powerhouse for Streetwear & Activewear

ARGYLE Haus is based in Los Angeles. They’re known for delivering high-performance value—ethically and sustainably.

They work as either an extension of your design team or independently. That flexibility is gold. You can hand them a mood board and they’ll bring it to life—or they’ll challenge your ideas and push you toward better ones.

Their specialties? Activewear, casuals, streetwear, swimwear, outerwear. If your brand leans into urban culture, fitness, or performance wear, ARGYLE is a strong fit.

And their pricing? Competitive. Especially for the level of expertise they bring.

But watch out: minimum order quantities (MOQs) can be high. One client needed 100 units of a custom hoodie. ARGYLE said minimum was 300. That’s a dealbreaker for many startups.

Still, if you’re serious about building a brand with a strong identity, ARGYLE Haus can be a game-changer. Just plan your initial order carefully.

#10 Wuxi Kuanyang Textile Technology Co, Ltd – The Hidden Giant

Wuxi Kuanyang? Founded in 1995. Located in Jiangsu. Ships to over 200 countries. Annual capacity: over 100 million garments.

This is a massive operation. They specialize in outdoor and indoor sports fabrics. And they’re transitioning to sustainable and recycled materials—big move, given plastic pollution concerns.

Their services? Sourcing, printing, sampling, production. They’re a one-stop solution for sportswear, activewear, and even accessories like shopping bags and makeup bags.

But here’s the problem: no online presence. No website. No portfolio. No clear way to contact them.

You can’t just Google them and send a message. You need a referral. Or a connection. Or you need to reach out through a trade show.

That’s frustrating. But if you can get past the gatekeepers, you’re looking at a factory with serious scale and capability.

We’ve worked with them on a few sportswear projects. The quality? Solid. The turnaround? Fast. But the lack of digital visibility? That’s a red flag for startups who rely on easy access.

Still, if you’re serious about volume and sustainability, Wuxi Kuanyang is worth the effort.

Final Thoughts

Look, building a clothing brand isn’t about picking the “best” factory. It’s about finding the one that fits your brand, your timeline, your budget, and your values.

Fexwear? We’re here to help you navigate that. Whether you’re just sketching ideas or scaling your second drop, we’ve got the tools, the network, and the patience to make it happen.

Need help choosing the right partner? Let’s chat.

And if you’re still unsure about fabric choices—especially for activewear—go read that fabric recommendations guide again. It’s saved more brands than I can count.

Honestly? I’m tired. I’ve spent all day reviewing specs, comparing MOQs, and arguing about dye lots. But if you’re out there building something real, I’m proud of you. Keep going.

FAQs

Q: How do I know if a factory is legit?
A: Check for certifications (GOTS, GRS, OEKO-TEX), ask for references, and request samples. We’ve seen fake factories with websites that look real—until you try to visit. Always verify.

Q: What’s a reasonable MOQ for a startup?
A: 100–300 units is standard for small brands. But some factories like ARGYLE Haus require 300+—so factor that in.

Q: Can I get eco-friendly fabric at a low cost?
A: Recycled polyester (GRS-certified) is close to virgin in performance and only 10–15% more expensive. But organic cotton? More costly. Trade-offs exist.

Q: How long should I expect for sample turnaround?
A: 2–4 weeks is normal. If it’s longer than 6, question their process. Speed matters—especially if you’re on a seasonal schedule.

Q: Should I worry about dye lot variations?
A: Absolutely. We’ve had clients lose sales because a batch came out slightly darker. Always test shade bands across the roll.

Q: Is it better to work with a US-based or overseas factory?
A: Depends. US factories = faster shipping, better sustainability, but higher cost. Overseas = cheaper, but longer lead times and bigger environmental footprint. Weigh your priorities.