Organic Clothing: A Fashion That Makes SenseMaking a switch to organic clothing gives both humans and our planet a large boost. Did you know that, according to the United States Department of Agriculture, over 50 million pounds of pesticides are dumped each year on cotton-producing fields? Can you imagine what damage that does to the soil and what pollution is added to our watersheds? Unfortunately, conventional cotton farming is pesticide dependent. Organic farming, on the other hand, uses composting, which replaces harmful fertilizers, along with trap crops, targeted flame devices, and careful management of pests using predatory insects. This, of course, is also safer to those who pick the cotton as well as the farmers because machines are not employed. The resulting organic clothing, made from cotton,soy, bamboo or hemp, is free of chlorine and formaldehyde, and will be produced without harmful chemical bleaches or dyes. Importantly,organic cotton to be used in eco friendly clothing must be certified by the USDA. Part of the requirements include keeping strict records and a long term management plan. There is to be a three year transition between a conventional farm to an organic one. No chemical herbicides or fumigants are to be used.
This concern for safe clothing has gone international. IFOAM (International Federation of Organic Agricultural Movements) is composed of 750 member organizations in 108 countries and exists to further interests of organic agriculture and insure equivalence in certified products among nations. Their Organic Guarantee System assures organic integrity internationally through a common system of standards. Information on becoming a member (individual or organization) is available at their website (ifoam.org).
Organic Baby ClothingThe importance of clothing that is organic for babies and young children is obvious. Organic baby diapers and blankets should be the choice of mothers to make for their babies, just developing vital organs and protective systems within their bodies,and who are especially sensitive to chemicals non-organic clothing can contain. Of additional concern is that it takes a few years for the baby's skin to fully develop a protective barrier against chemical agents.Babies deserve soft, yet durable 100% organically grown cotton clothing. When arranging a baby shower, it is important to register at natural clothing stores. Educate your friends and relatives to the importance of organic clothing for babies and young infants. Once starting off babies in safe clothing, it makes sense to continue this healthy trend. Yes, children and adults should be wearing organic clothing for similar reasons. Remember that organic cotton is generally more breathable and will last longer than conventionally manufactured clothing.
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