In recent years, bio-composites have garnered substantial interest in replacing petroleum-based synthetic composites due to their various merits such as low cost, biodegradable, recyclable, non-toxic, lightweight and easy availability of raw materials. Sustainable composites produced using polylactic acid (PLA) matrix and plant-based natural fibers as reinforcement have proven to be an ideal material that can be employed in various applications. The properties of the PLA can be widely altered by reinforcing various natural fibers of different lengths and content etc. This article provides an in-depth review of the effect of different natural fiber additions on the static mechanical, dynamic mechanical and thermal properties of PLA-based sustainable composites. © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.