Unlike, personal care and food products, there aren't any 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 in order to create textiles, or materials, that will 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 whether or not the original fibers were in fact from organic sources. However, many organizations around the world and in Loudon are now trying to create global standards for what can be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Loudon & 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 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 a variety of 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 Loudon, TN
Luckily, organic clothing has become more common in Loudon recently 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 anywhere in the world. There are a variety of websites that sell organic clothing and cover trends within the organic clothing industry.
Farmers markets in Loudon – Farmers markets aren’t just for people looking for organic foods. You can also find eco-friendly products that support sustainability. Bonus: you’ll be supporting your local economy.
Loudon retail stores – Organic clothing has grown to be so popular in Loudon 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 be 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 far more to think about than the fabric.