May 20, 2021

3 Compelling Reasons to Use Organic Cotton Products

Organic cottons’ place in the textile industry has become more prominent, and if you do a little research, it is easy to see why.

One only needs to skim the surface to see why there are so many compelling reasons to choose organic cotton over conventional cotton-here are the 3 most important.

Organic Cotton is Better for You

If you choose organic cotton, you're making a healthy choice.

Conventional cotton farming uses pesticides and chemicals at many stages. The chemicals and pesticides that are used/applied and can get into the soil, the water, the air and other plants or crops.

Exposure of these pesticides and chemicals to those involved in the farming process and even the end consumer can lead to acute and long term toxicity.

Studies have shown links between the pesticide and chemical use in farming to serious diseases ranging from cancer to respiratory issues. Childhood cancers have also been linked to parental pesticide exposure prior to birth.

Contaminates can also be drawn into the plant and end up on or in the final product.

The pesticides get into the plant itself and can be present in the fiber but it could also be present in the seeds which are then converted into food items. As an example, cottonseed oil is a byproduct of cotton. A lot of food items use cottonseed oil.

This all potentially exposes us internally and externally to these pesticides and poisons.

These are things that should be kept in mind when purchasing things that will be against our skin such as a cotton bath robe. Opting to use organic cotton bath towels is also a good idea for the same reasons.

By choosing organic cotton, risks like these are completely avoided. Make sure the organic cotton products you choose are GOTS certified.

GOTS certification means the products have undergone and passed a strict set of globally recognized criteria applied to all stages of the production chain, from the seeds planted, to growing, harvesting to manufacturing and packaging.

Look for products with their label.

Organic cotton is also great choice for people with allergies and skin sensitivities. These people may experience challenges using conventional cotton because they have reactions to the chemicals and dyes that the cotton is treated with.

Organic cotton doesn't use any harsh chemicals and dyes this issue is completely avoided. Organic cotton definitely is the best choice for people with asthma, sensitive skin or similar issues. Additionally, it makes a great choice for small children and babies since they have more sensitive skin in general. If you have a baby, organic cotton muslin wraps would be great to always keep on hand.

Organic Cotton Is Superior in Quality and Is More Durable

Organic cotton is not treated with any harsh dyes or chemicals in its processing. As a result, organic cotton ends up being stronger and more resilient than conventional cotton. There are no strong chemicals used in processing that could cause the fibers to weaken and break.

Since the fiber is not stripped of its natural wax from chemical processing, most fabrics have a smoothness and a flattering way the surface reflects light. Organic cotton tends to drape nicely also because of this.

Organic cotton is more comfortable against the skin than conventional cotton. Since it is made without harsh processing, the fibers remain strong and unbroken resulting longer in length fibers that feel more comfortable to you. This is why organic cotton bedsheets feel so good. The silky smoothness comes from longer fibers not broken down by harsh chemicals.

Unlike synthetic materials, organic fibers allow for ventilation and air circulation which helps remove body moisture by absorption, regulating body temperature. Items like organic cotton blankets make good use of this trait, making them perfect for layering as the temperature dictates. Organic cotton fibers are able to absorb body moisture which then evaporates into the surrounding air which helps keep your body comfortable.

Organic Cotton Is Better for The Environment and The People That Grew It

Organic cotton farming is better for people, the ecosystem and is sustainable.

Organic cotton farming can reduce water consumption by as much as 91% and, since most organic cotton is about 80% rain-fed, less pressure is felt on local water sources. Organic cotton farming also uses about 62% less energy and has 46% less environmental inputs that contribute to global warming from things like tractor operating .

The pesticides and chemicals used in conventional cotton farming are poisonous and can harm more than just the vermin they're targeting. These chemicals are bad for the health of the environment and for people. They can get into the water table and pollute it.

These pesticides can also be carried by the wind and be inadvertently inhaled or get on other crops.

Since organic cotton doesn't use chemical pesticides and fertilizers that can run off into the water, that means the existing water in the area where it's grown is safer and cleaner.

GOTS certified organic cotton is produced by workers who are fairly treated not overworked. The GOTS Standard also strictly controls the social criteria used in the production of organic cotton to make sure that workers are fairly treated. The value placed on them as individuals also inspires workers to have pride in their work which is reflected in the quality of their final products.

GOTS certified organic cotton systems require continual maintenance and upgrading to continue fair and quality production.

The conventional cotton market is ruled by large genetically modified seed producers. Farmers can be forced to buy seed from these sources rather than save some from their last harvest. They must then buy chemical fertilizers and pesticides to use on their crops, which can then contaminate the surrounding environment and the farmers themselves. Damage to the environment can make it harder for small farmers to grow crops next to cotton, making it harder for them to earn extra money or provide food for their family.

Organic farmers save seed from each year’s crop to reuse. They don’t need to buy fertilizer or chemicals, instead they take steps to care for their soil and strengthen their bio-diversity, improving the soil for the future.

100% organic cotton is also biodegradable, meaning it can be broken down by living organisms when its’ usable time ends. Most textile items can break down within 2 weeks, meaning less waste in landfills, which is also good for the environment.

Gallant International Inc. is a Certified B Corp. We specialize in private label wholesale makeup bags, custom printed organic cotton totes, drawstring bags for packaging among other products-great gift with purchase and packaging options for eco-conscious businesses to further their commitment to organic cotton.

We are acutely aware of the environmental and social issues that the world is facing. We take our ethical responsibility very seriously. We ensure the highest social and environmental compliance and quality standards in our entire production process from the cotton farms in India to your home, office or business.