Unlike, personal care and food 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 numerous processes to create textiles, or materials, that'll be used to make clothes.
A wide 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 all over the world and in Elkhart are now attempting to create global standards for what can be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Elkhart & 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 – At least 95% organically grown fibers used and all processes adhere to 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 utilized 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 which can be organically harvested to create organic clothing.
- Cotton
- Bamboo
- Hemp
- Silk
- Wool
- Cashmere
- Linen
Where to Find Organic Clothing in Elkhart, IN
Luckily, organic clothing has become popular in Elkhart recently 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 number of websites that sell organic clothing and cover trends within the organic clothing industry.
Farmers markets in Elkhart – 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.
Elkhart retail stores – Organic clothing has become so popular in Elkhart 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 more.
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 use to make their organic clothing, because as you now know there's far more to take into account than the fabric.