Unlike, personal care and food 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 a number 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 makes it difficult to deem clothing organic whether or not the original fibers were in fact from organic sources. However, many organizations all over the world and in East Cleveland are now trying to create global standards for what can be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in East Cleveland & the U.S.
The Organic Trade Association (OTA) in america 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 – A minimum of 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 keep 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. 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 East Cleveland, TN
Luckily, organic clothing has become more common in East Cleveland 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 anywhere in the world. There are a number of websites that sell organic clothing and cover trends within the organic clothing industry.
Farmers markets in East Cleveland – 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.
East Cleveland retail stores – Organic clothing has grown to be so popular in East Cleveland 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 others.
Check the labels to make sure the garment really is organic and to what degree. It also helps 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 think about than the fabric.