Unlike, personal care and food 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 number of processes in order to create textiles, or materials, that'll be used to make clothes.
A variety of harsh chemicals are employed to weave, clean, dye and finish materials. This makes it difficult to deem clothing organic even if the original fibers were in fact from organic sources. However, many organizations worldwide and in Long Branch are now trying to create global standards for what may be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Long Branch & 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 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 follow 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. 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 Long Branch, NJ
Luckily, organic clothing has become popular in Long Branch recently and the availability has improved greatly. Now, you'll 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 around the globe. There are a number of websites that sell organic clothing and cover trends within the organic clothing industry.
Farmers markets in Long Branch – 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.
Long Branch retail stores – Organic clothing is now so popular in Long Branch 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 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 far more to think about than the fabric.