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 variety of processes to create textiles, or materials, that'll 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 around the world and in North Brookfield are now working to create global standards for what can be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in North Brookfield & 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, even the threads. All processes used comply with the OTA standards.
Organic – No less than 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 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 many different 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 North Brookfield, MA
Luckily, organic clothing has become popular in North Brookfield lately 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 North Brookfield – 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.
North Brookfield retail stores – Organic clothing has become so popular in North Brookfield 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 others.
Check the labels to be sure the garment really is organic and to what degree. It may also help 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.