Unlike, food and personal care products, there aren't any 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 in order to create textiles, or materials, that will be used to make clothes.
A wide 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 all over the world and in Revere are now trying to create global standards for what can be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Revere & 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 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 may or may not have some organic fiber content. May be manufactured using processes that don’t follow 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 Revere, MA
Luckily, organic clothing has become popular in Revere 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 Revere – 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.
Revere retail stores – Organic clothing has become so popular in Revere that even major chains like Wal-Mart are selling affordable options. Other retail 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 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 a lot more to take into account than the fabric.