An organic label probably isn't the first thing that you look for when you're purchasing a piece of clothing. Although organic clothing may not be something that you've ever considered before, there are several important benefits to consider when you're looking for that next spring outfit to rock. Before diving into the benefits of this type of clothing, though, it would be helpful to know what exactly organic clothing is.
According to AjnaDesign.com, organic clothing is made from organic cotton that has been specifically created according to particular guidelines for organic farming. Throughout the process, no genetically modified seeds, pesticides or other chemicals are used.
The Organic Trade Association is an organization that represents the organic industry in Canada and the United States. There are a few guidelines this organization identifies that need to be evident for a piece of clothing to be considered organic.
The first is that all components of the garment are organically grown and certified. This would include thread and the various processes that are utilized to manufacture the article of clothing.
The second is that at least 95 percent of the weight of the fibers are organically grown. Not to mention, all of the chemicals that are used in the manufacturing process, which might include actions such as knitting, weaving, cleaning, scouring, dyeing and finishing, must conform to the process requirements defined by the organization.
Some process requirements include that all degreasers, detergents, surfactants and soaps must be biodegradable, synthetic waxes, knitting and weaving oils must be water soluble, and the use of chlorine bleach, plastisols, some AZO dyes, formaldehyde and synthetic chemicals is prohibited. Also, genetically modified organisms, also known as GMOs, are not allowed in any stage of the process.
With that being said, the benefits of organic clothing are self-evident. Because the production of organic clothing leaves out harmful chemicals, a perceived benefit is a reduction in allergies and even respiratory issues, in severe allergy cases.
In addition to consumers benefitting from organic garments, even the environment experiences some advantages. According to OrganicFacts.net, cotton crops are frequently plagued with numerous diseases and pests such as bacterial blight, ascochvta blight, southern blight, lef spot, bollworm, white fly, crown gall, lint degradation and anthracnose.
The conventional methods that are utilized by the production aspect of the clothing industry utilizes the excessive use of chemicals, which causes severe environmental pollution.
However, organic cotton is grown using organic means without the use of chemical fertilizers or pesticides, so conserving biodiversity and preventing water contamination are a few convenient things the environment experiences as a result of organic clothing.
Farmers may also experience improved health benefits, especially in developing nations. Conventional means of cotton farming can lead to poisoning, but organic cotton production is a safer option for farmers so they can guarantee healthy lifestyles.
While these are just a few of the many reasons why you might want to consider purchasing a piece of organic clothing, recognizing the impact such clothing has on a greater scale is important within itself.
