Are you thinking of refreshing your closet this new year? If so, now’s probably the best time to drop those fast fashion pieces and start investing in organic clothing.
By choosing organic clothing, you’re not only doing your part to help protect and preserve the environment, but you’re doing something good for your health too.
In this article, we’ll take you over why organic clothing is the better option for you and the environment to help you make that switch!
What does organic mean in fashion?
One of the most eco-friendly ways to produce clothing is by using mainly organic and natural fabrics.
Organic clothing is made from natural and organic fibres from plants. Just like any other plants, the farming process will require land, water, fertilisers, and sometimes, pesticides.
However, with organic fabrics, there are no pesticides involved in farming the materials. These fabrics are grown naturally, require significantly less water, and aren’t dyed with harsh chemicals.
Cotton, bamboo, hemp, and silk are among the naturally-grown fabrics commonly used in sustainable and organic clothing.
Why is organic clothing good for you?
Organic fabrics are gentle on the skin
One of the health benefits of this type of fabric is that it’s gentle and safe on the skin, making it the ideal option for individuals with sensitive skin or skin allergies.
Fast fashion pieces are often made from conventional cotton, which are grown with the help of pesticides and other harsh chemicals. Synthetic and treated fabrics like these could trigger skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Exposing yourself to such fabrics can be bad for your skin and overall health in the long run.
Organic fabrics are cosier and more comfortable
Organic fabrics are naturally breathable and absorbent, so the clothes feel great against the skin throughout the day regardless of the weather.
The permeable fabric of organic clothes allows heat and odour to pass through freely, keeping you cool and comfortable all day. It’s also more absorbent than synthetic fabrics, helping you stay drier and fresher without that sticky, sweaty feeling.
Women, in particular, like the texture, breathability, and absorbent qualities of organic fabrics, so they have become a popular choice for casual wear, innerwear, and sportswear.
Why is organic clothing better for the environment?
Organic fabrics preserve natural resources
When more people opt for organic clothing, the overall dependence on synthetic, chemically-treated fabrics for clothing is reduced. This will help to preserve our natural resources.
For example, conventional cotton is a water-intensive crop. Its use of heavy pesticides and herbicides further contributes to water pollution and soil degradation.
Meanwhile, organic cotton uses up to 60% less water than conventional cotton and uses rainwater more efficiently, which means no water is wasted and no irrigations are damaged.
Choosing organic fabrics can be an effective way to fight the damaging effects of the fast fashion industry.
Clothes made with organic fabrics are more durable
Another compelling advantage of organic clothing is its durability, proven to withstand wear and tear better than most fast fashion pieces.
It’s stronger and more durable than ordinary cotton because it’s not treated with pesticides and chemicals, so it maintains its strength and quality.
When clothes last longer in your closet, there’s little need for frequent replacement because you’re not throwing out workable clothes as often. As a result, fewer textiles will end up in the landfills.
If you’re looking for more sustainable clothes made from organic fabrics to add to your closet, check out Something to Hold for basic and classic pieces that should never be absent from your wardrobe.
SOURCES:
https://www.ethicalconsumer.org/fashion-clothing/quick-guide-organic-fashion