Unlike, personal care and food 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 a variety of processes in order to create textiles, or materials, that'll 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 Bird Island are now trying to create global standards for what can be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Bird Island & 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 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 keep 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. Listed here 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 Bird Island, MN
Luckily, organic clothing has become popular in Bird Island in recent years and the availability has improved greatly. Now, you'll find organic clothing almost anywhere in the U.S.
Online – The internet is probably your best resource for finding organic clothing providers, both locally and around the globe. There are a number of websites that sell organic clothing and cover trends within the organic clothing industry.
Farmers markets in Bird Island – 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.
Bird Island retail stores – Organic clothing has become so popular in Bird Island 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 more.
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 choose to make their organic clothing, because as you now know there's much more to take into account than the fabric.