Unlike, food and personal care 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'll be used to make clothes.
A variety of harsh chemicals are utilized 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 Vancouver are now working to create global standards for what can be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Vancouver & 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 – 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 could 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 many different materials. Just how many materials may surprise people. Listed here 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 Vancouver, WA
Luckily, organic clothing has become popular in Vancouver 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 number of websites that sell organic clothing and cover trends within the organic clothing industry.
Farmers markets in Vancouver – Farmers markets aren’t just for people looking for organic foods. You can also get eco-friendly products that support sustainability. Bonus: you’ll be supporting your local economy.
Vancouver retail stores – Organic clothing is now so popular in Vancouver 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 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 far more to think about than the fabric.