Unlike, food and personal care products, there are no 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 to create textiles, or materials, that'll be used to make clothes.
A number 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 all over the world and in Islip are now attempting to create global standards for what can be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Islip & 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 may or may not have some organic fiber content. May be manufactured using processes that don’t stick to 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 number of materials. Just how many materials may surprise people. Listed here 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 Islip, NY
Luckily, organic clothing has become more common in Islip lately and the availability has improved greatly. Now, you can get 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 numerous of websites that sell organic clothing and cover trends within the organic clothing industry.
Farmers markets in Islip – Farmers markets aren’t just for people looking for organic foods. There are also eco-friendly products that support sustainability. Bonus: you’ll be supporting your local economy.
Islip retail stores – Organic clothing has become so popular in Islip 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 others.
Check the labels to ensure the garment really is organic and to what degree. It also helps 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.