Unlike, food and personal care products, there are no U.S. or global standards for organic textiles. Although natural fibers that come from plants and animals can be certified ‘organic’ by the USDA, those fibers undergo a number of processes in order to make textiles, or materials, that will be used to make clothes.
A variety of harsh chemicals are utilized to weave, clean, dye and finish materials. This will make it difficult to deem clothing organic even if the original fibers were in fact from organic sources. However, many organizations worldwide and in Bentonville are now working to create global standards for what can be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Bentonville & the U.S.
The Organic Trade Association (OTA) in america has made great strides in establishing 4 levels for organic clothing labeling.
100% Organic – all materials used are grown organically, including the threads. All processes used conform to the OTA standards.
Organic – No less than 95% organically grown fibers used and all processes follow the OTA standards.
Made with Organic (specific fiber products) – At least 70% of the fibers used were organically grown.
Less 70% Organically Produced - The garment might have some organic fiber content. May be manufactured using processes that don’t keep to the OTA standards.
Organic Clothing Materials
The fibers used for materials are basically the only thing that is currently certified organic in clothing. Organic clothing comes in a number of materials. Just how many materials may surprise people. Listed below are examples of materials that can be organically harvested to create organic clothing.
- Cotton
- Bamboo
- Hemp
- Silk
- Wool
- Cashmere
- Linen
Where to Find Organic Clothing in Bentonville, AR
Luckily, organic clothing has become more common in Bentonville recently and the availability has improved greatly. Now, you can get organic clothing almost anywhere in the U.S.
Online – The internet is probably your best resource for finding organic clothing providers, both locally and anywhere in the world. There are a number of websites that sell organic clothing and cover trends within the organic clothing industry.
Farmers markets in Bentonville – Farmers markets aren’t just for people looking for organic foods. You can also find eco-friendly products that support sustainability. Bonus: you’ll be supporting your local economy.
Bentonville retail stores – Organic clothing is now so popular in Bentonville that even major chains like Wal-Mart are selling affordable options. Other retailers that typically sell organic clothes include Target, Urban Outfitters, American Apparel, Bloomingdales and others.
Check the labels to make sure the garment really is organic and to what degree. It also helps to research manufacturers to learn about the processes they choose to make their organic clothing, because as you now know there's a lot more to take into account than the fabric.