Unlike, personal care and food 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 number of processes in order to make textiles, or materials, that will be used to make clothes.
A number of harsh chemicals are employed to weave, clean, dye and finish materials. This makes it difficult to deem clothing organic whether or not the original fibers were in fact from organic sources. However, many organizations around the world and in Salisbury are now trying to create global standards for what may be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Salisbury & 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 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 might have some organic fiber content. May be manufactured using processes that don’t follow 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. 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 Salisbury, NC
Luckily, organic clothing has become more popular in Salisbury lately 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 Salisbury – 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.
Salisbury retail stores – Organic clothing has grown to be so popular in Salisbury 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 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 normally use to make their organic clothing, because as you now know there's much more to think about than the fabric.