Unlike, food and personal care products, there aren't any 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 variety of processes to create textiles, or materials, that'll be used to make clothes.
A variety of harsh chemicals are used 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 Grangeville are now attempting to create global standards for what can be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Grangeville & 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, even the threads. All processes used comply with 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 could have some organic fiber content. May be manufactured using processes that don’t keep to the OTA standards.
Organic Clothing Materials
The fibers utilized for materials are basically the only thing that is currently certified organic in clothing. Organic clothing comes in a variety of materials. Just how many materials may surprise people. Below are examples of materials which can be organically harvested to create organic clothing.
- Cotton
- Bamboo
- Hemp
- Silk
- Wool
- Cashmere
- Linen
Where to Find Organic Clothing in Grangeville, ID
Luckily, organic clothing has become more popular in Grangeville lately and the availability has improved greatly. Now, you'll find organic clothing almost anywhere in the U.S.
Online – The web is probably your best resource for finding organic clothing providers, both locally and all over the world. There are a number of websites that sell organic clothing and cover trends within the organic clothing industry.
Farmers markets in Grangeville – Farmers markets aren’t just for people looking for organic foods. There are also eco-friendly products that support sustainability. Bonus: you’ll be supporting your local economy.
Grangeville retail stores – Organic clothing is now so popular in Grangeville 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 many others.
Check the labels to ensure the garment really is organic and to what degree. It also helps to research manufacturers to learn about the processes they normally use to make their organic clothing, because as you now know there's much more to think about than the fabric.