Unlike, food and personal care products, there aren't any 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 numerous processes in order 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 worldwide and in Stewartville are now trying to create global standards for what may be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Stewartville & 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 in 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. Below are examples of materials that may be organically harvested to create organic clothing.
- Cotton
- Bamboo
- Hemp
- Silk
- Wool
- Cashmere
- Linen
Where to Find Organic Clothing in Stewartville, MN
Luckily, organic clothing has become more common in Stewartville recently and the availability has improved greatly. Now, you can 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 variety of websites that sell organic clothing and cover trends within the organic clothing industry.
Farmers markets in Stewartville – 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.
Stewartville retail stores – Organic clothing is now so popular in Stewartville 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 make sure the garment really is organic and to what degree. It may also help to research manufacturers to learn about the processes they use to make their organic clothing, because as you now know there's a lot more to consider than the fabric.