When we design our pieces we think about so much more than just the way they look. Creating comfortable, functional, breathable and sustainable clothing is our top priority and we place huge importance on making sure the materials we use support our sustainable vision.

Therefore, you can find t-shirts, hoodies and sweatshirts made from high quality organic cotton within our range.

What is Organic Cotton?

Organic cotton is a naturally grown fibre, produced in warmer countries such as India, Turkey and China. Compared to conventional cotton, organic cotton avoids the use of pesticides and fertilisers which makes for a more environmentally friendly product. According to The Organic Trade Association organic cotton currently makes up approximately 0.95% of the global cotton production due to it costing more to produce, but is organic cotton better and why should you make the switch?

Organic Cotton vs Conventional Cotton

Conventional Cotton is a mass produced material massively used in the fashion industry. However, here are 4 reasons why you should consider making the change to organic when you’re next browsing in store or online for clothes or even homeware too, like bed sheets.

1. Save water and improve quality

Cotton needs a lot of water to grow, but when grown organically the crops use rainwater or water stored in the soil. Cotton plants are also hugely beneficial in extreme conditions as they soak up water during floods and hold it for longer during droughts! Pretty clever.

2. Combat Climate Change

Steering away from the use of fossil-fuel based fertilisers ensures the protection of the earths natural resources. Also plants grown using fertilisers release nitrous oxide which is a greenhouse gas which contributes to global warming, where natural cotton production does not.

3. Improve Conditions for Farmers and Wildlife

Growing organic cotton allows farmers to grow other crops alongside this, which promotes balanced, healthy soil and also allows farmers to have a better income from a range of produce. Farmers and farm workers working on conventional cotton farms are at a higher risk of pesticide poising from chemicals used in the process, wildlife are negatively affected by the chemicals too.

4. Longer lasting

Organic cotton is formed from stronger fibres making clothes more durable and longer lasting. The chemicals used in conventional cotton production weaken the fibres over time, meaning any conventional cotton items you purchase are likely to be destined for the bin sooner than it’s organic counterparts.

Is Organic Cotton Sustainable?

Although it isn’t considered completely eco-friendly it is a more sustainable option especially compared to conventional cotton and other materials. Organic cotton seeds are not genetically modified, the plants use less water to grow and also emit less green house gases which are all big advantages. However, these changes have a much bigger and wider impact than you might think. The avoidance of pesticides and fertilisers improves the health of farm workers, ensures clean water and food supplies to local communities and a chemical free approach also means the land stays fertile for longer.

What to do with organic cotton garments when you no longer want them?

There comes a time with any piece of clothing, that you look to get rid of it. That may be because it no longer fits, you don’t wear it anymore or it no longer suits your style but ultimately it’s taking up space in your wardrobe. However, before you lift the bin lid to throw it away for good, think about other options that will benefit other people as well as the planet.

·         Make some extra cash by re-selling them on eBay, Vinted or other reselling platforms

·         Take them to a charity shop

·         Pass them onto friends or family

Donating or gifting  your clothes in this way gives them a second lease of life, giving someone else the chance to love it as much as you once did and maybe even pass it on again if the garment has really good longevity.

·         Take them to a recycling point or clothing/ textile bank, these are typically found at supermarkets or in car parks

·         Some high street retailers such as Primark and M&S have clothing donation banks in-store and in some cases you may be able to redeem money back

Shop organic cotton

So when you’re next shopping think about the environmental impact of the fabrics you usually reach for and take a look at the organic cotton options available. Although they may be at a slightly higher price point, all of the benefits to the planet and the longevity of the item make it worth the switch.

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