Unlike, food and personal care products, there are no U.S. or global standards for organic textiles. Although natural fibers that come from animals and plants can be certified ‘organic’ by the USDA, those fibers undergo a variety of processes in order to create textiles, or materials, that will be used to make clothes.
A number of harsh chemicals are used to weave, clean, dye and finish materials. This makes it difficult to deem clothing organic whether or not the original fibers were in fact from organic sources. However, many organizations worldwide and in Rolling Meadows are now trying to create global standards for what can be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Rolling Meadows & the U.S.
The Organic Trade Association (OTA) in the United States 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 could have some organic fiber content. May be manufactured using processes that don’t stick 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 variety of materials. Just how many materials may surprise people. 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 Rolling Meadows, IL
Luckily, organic clothing has become more common in Rolling Meadows in recent years and the availability has improved greatly. Now, you can 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 variety of websites that sell organic clothing and cover trends within the organic clothing industry.
Farmers markets in Rolling Meadows – Farmers markets aren’t just for people looking for organic foods. You can also get eco-friendly products that support sustainability. Bonus: you’ll be supporting your local economy.
Rolling Meadows retail stores – Organic clothing has become so popular in Rolling Meadows that even major chains like Wal-Mart are selling affordable options. Other stores 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 choose to make their organic clothing, because as you now know there's far more to consider than the fabric.