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 will 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 all over the world and in Maple Valley are now working to create global standards for what can be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Maple Valley & 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, including the threads. All processes used comply with the OTA standards.
Organic – A minimum of 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 could have some organic fiber content. May be manufactured using processes that don’t follow 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 many different materials. Just how many materials may surprise people. Listed 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 Maple Valley, WA
Luckily, organic clothing has become more popular in Maple Valley in recent years 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 Maple Valley – 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.
Maple Valley retail stores – Organic clothing is now so popular in Maple Valley 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 more.
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 use to make their organic clothing, because as you now know there's far more to think about than the fabric.