What is organic cotton?
In the world of baby apparel, there’s a growing trend that not only embraces style but also prioritises the well-being of our little ones. Organic cotton are naturally grown cotton without pesticide and chemical fertiliser for over 3 years, making it free of toxic compounds that are harmful for the skin. The term “organic” means produced without harsh chemical that are harmful for our bodies.
Organic cotton is not only skin-friendly but also eco-friendly (sustainable) as it uses methods and materials that have a low environmental impact. The pure, soft fibres allow your little one’s sensitive skin to breathe naturally.
So what makes organic cotton more sustainable than traditional cotton and many other textiles? The answer lies in the farming and manufacturing process.
Traditional regular cotton is one the most chemically charged crop, consuming around 6% of the world’s pesticides and 16% of all insecticides, other than heavy usage of water. Cotton production and manufacturing also heavily contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and pollute thousands of litres of drinkable water. In fact, it’s the most 3rd least sustainable option right after Polyester and Acrylic.
The production of an organic cotton crop, on the other hand, adopts eco-friendly practices that prioritise soil health, water conservation, and biodiversity. It requires approximately 91% less water than traditional cotton, relying more on rainwater, use non chemical dye and no harsh chemical in all the details including zip,
As parents seek the best for their babies, the choice of clothing becomes a meaningful decision. Organic cotton, with its myriad benefits, has emerged as a growing preferred choice for both infants and the environment. As we use organic cotton, we also support sustainable farming practices, which reduces environmental contamination, thereby contribute to a cleaner planet for their children to inherit.
What does certified organic cotton means?
It means the apparel are certified by world recognised certification body to be skin-friendly and eco friendly, adding assurance that brands claims of skin-friendly apparel are tested by independent body. Do you know what you’re getting when you pick a product off the shelf labelled ‘organic’ or ‘fairly traded’ Unlike food, for fibres the term ‘organic’ is not regulated. This can be misleading for consumers as textile products may be falsely labelled as ‘organic’. This is where the certification is so important.
Certified organic cotton stands as a beacon of transparency and assurance in the world of textiles. To achieve the coveted “certified organic” label, cotton must adhere to stringent guidelines set by recognized certification bodies such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and OEKO-TEX. These guidelines encompass every stage of production, from farming practices to processing and manufacturing at all processing levels – their dyes are free from harsh chemicals, bleaches and other irritant and pollutant materials, as well as accessory materials used from buttons, zip fasteners, sewing threads or labels, ready-made articles of various types, such as all kinds of garments, domestic and household textiles, bed linen and terry products. Both GOTS and OEKO-TEX are 2 most recognised certifications.
To obtain a OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification, the textile needs to be free from more than 100 substances known to be harmful to human health.
GOTS Certification is the highest standard in the world, it is recognized as the gold standard worldwide for certification of textile processing of organic fibres right across the supply chain from harvesting of raw materials, through environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing, right up to labelling of the final product. Rigorous on-site inspections are carried out by an independent certifier (Soil Association in the UK). A textile product that is carrying the GOTS label “organic” must contain a minimum of 95% certified organic fibre. GOTS certification covers the whole textile process include fair labour practices and the assurance that there is no known toxic substances used as part of the manufacturing process.
While certified organic cotton offers your complete assurance that what you’re buying is truly organic and sustainably made from field to finished product, non-certified cotton is more readily available and often less expensive. Ultimately, the choice between certified and non-certified organic cotton depends on an individual’s values, priorities, and budget. As consumers become more conscious of their choices, they play a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future for the generations to come.
Why Choose Organic Cotton For Your Little Ones?
As parents, you are faced with multiple questions and decisions about your little ones and the impact you want to leave on Earth. Every day you, and your children, are exposed to harmful chemicals and toxins found in common place items such as clothes.
There are 2 reasons for choosing skin-friendly material such as organic cotton:
- To support sustainable and ecological practices, to build a safer healthier world for your children to grow up in. Other than being skin-friendly, generally organic cotton are more eco and earth-friendly as chemicals harm our planet. Organic cotton is plant-based and thus, if no chemicals or synthetic fibers are involved, it can be a fully biodegradable material. The decomposing process usually takes around 5 months and can sometimes happen within one week depending on the amount of oxygen
- To improve your little ones’ sleep quality. Sleep Quality with good deep sleep and less disruptions is very crucial for your baby’s brain development and to prevent the risk of autism in later years (source: University of Washington, 2020)
One significant factor that can contribute to a baby’s sleep quality is the type of clothing they wear; when they are in comfortable sleepwear, they will sleep more soundly, less fidgeting and scratching or waking up hence maximise their deep sleep. Here are the numerous benefits of choosing organic cotton for your baby’s sleepwear, highlighting how it can lead to better sleep quality and overall well-being.
- Chemical Free and Hypoallergenic – the naturally grown sources of the fabric and production processes free from harsh chemicals make the apparel hypoallergenic and eczema safe, less likely to cause skin irritation or allergies hence minimise itchiness and rashes, allowing babies to enjoy maximum comfort throughout the day. This is healthier for babies as they have the most sensitive skin, ensuring they can sleep peacefully without discomfort. Conventional cotton farming often involves the use of synthetic pesticides and herbicides, which can leave behind toxic residues on the clothing in addition to the chemical dyes and processes used.
- Breathable – they don’t contain harmful chemicals hence the natural material will allow the fabric to breath and doesn’t trap heat. Especially when children are sick or having fever, they will feel more cosy in skin-friendly apparel as the fever heat won’t be trapped in their body. Organic cotton is known for its breathability and temperature-regulating properties. Babies can’t regulate their body temperature as effectively as adults, making it crucial to dress them in fabrics that help keep them comfortable throughout the night. Organic cotton wicks away moisture from the body, preventing overheating during warm nights and providing insulation during cooler ones.
- Soft and Comfortable – babies have delicate skin that deserves the utmost care and comfort. Organic cotton is naturally much softer than conventionally grown cotton as chemicals add layers on fabric and made them harder in texture. This softness ensures that your baby is wrapped in a cozy embrace, enhancing their comfort and making it easier for them to drift into a peaceful slumber.
In conclusion, the benefits of organic cotton apparel for a baby’s sleep quality cannot be overstated. Its hypoallergenic, breathable, and soft qualities, coupled with its safety and eco-friendliness, make it the perfect choice for ensuring your little one sleeps comfortably and peacefully, and creating a greener and more sustainable future for the next generation.
What a mommy (Hooi Shin) said about organic cotton apparel for her baby Eden – “My baby look comfiest in these clothes as they are breathable especially when he has fever, he sleeps better in these clothes as I feel the material doesn’t trap his fever heat so he sleep better. That’s why my favourite brand until now is Purebaby from Baron & Co”
