Unlike, food and personal care products, there are no 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 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 Brookfield are now attempting to create global standards for what can be labeled organic clothing.
OTA Organic Clothing Standards in Brookfield & 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 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 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 here are examples of materials that can be organically harvested to create organic clothing.
- Cotton
- Bamboo
- Hemp
- Silk
- Wool
- Cashmere
- Linen
Where to Find Organic Clothing in Brookfield, WI
Luckily, organic clothing has become more common in Brookfield in recent years and the availability has improved greatly. Now, you can find organic clothing almost anywhere in the U.S.
Online – The web 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 Brookfield – 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.
Brookfield retail stores – Organic clothing is now so popular in Brookfield that even major chains like Wal-Mart are selling affordable options. Other stores that typically sell organic clothes include Target, Urban Outfitters, American Apparel, Bloomingdales and many 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 normally use to make their organic clothing, because as you now know there's a lot more to take into account than the fabric.