Cotton is often called "the fabric of our lives" because of its widespread use in clothing, bedding, and household textiles. However, not all cotton is created equal. The difference between organic cotton and conventional cotton goes beyond just farming methods—it affects our health, the environment, and the ethical impact of our purchases.
If you care about sustainability, ethical fashion, and high-quality fabrics, understanding the advantages of organic cotton is essential. Many of my garments and products are crafted from organic cotton because it offers a cleaner, more responsible choice for conscious consumers. Let's explore why.
What Is Cotton Made From?
Cotton comes from the fluffy fibers of the cotton plant. A 100% cotton shirt typically requires around 300g of cotton, depending on size. This natural fiber is breathable, soft, and highly absorbent, making it a preferred choice for clothing and textiles.
Key Differences Between Organic Cotton and Conventional Cotton
While both types of cotton originate from the same plant, their cultivation and processing differ significantly:
-
No Harmful Pesticides & Chemicals: Organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or genetically modified seeds. Conventional cotton, on the other hand, is responsible for nearly 16% of global pesticide use, harming ecosystems and potentially leaving chemical residues on fabrics.
-
Polycultures Improve Soil: Organic cotton is grown in polycultures, meaning it is cultivated alongside other crops on the same field, which helps improve soil health.
-
Safer for Farmers & Workers: Conventional cotton farming exposes workers to toxic pesticides, leading to long-term health risks like cancer, birth defects and respiratory diseases. Organic farming provides a safer working environment.
-
Lower Carbon Footprint: Organic cotton farming typically results in lower greenhouse gas emissions up to 46% due to more sustainable agricultural practices.
Does Cotton Really Have a Water Problem?
A common concern is that cotton requires excessive amounts of water. While cotton is a thirsty crop, recent research suggests that irrigation efficiency has improved dramatically.
Some sources claim that organic cotton uses less water than conventional cotton due to better soil health and rain-fed farming methods. However, studies by the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) indicate that water use depends more on location and irrigation systems rather than organic vs. non-organic status.
That being said, organic cotton farms often employ more responsible water management techniques, such as crop rotation and soil conservation, which can improve long-term sustainability.
How Much of Our Clothing Is Made from Cotton?
Mommy’s Little Honey – 100% Certified Organic Cotton Baby Bodysuit (Natural & Black) by Anke Wonder
Cotton accounts for roughly 75% of all textiles worldwide. In some regions, like the UK, nearly 50% of garments contain cotton. Unfortunately, most of this is conventionally grown, contributing to environmental degradation.
The Growth of Organic Cotton
Organic cotton makes up only 0.7% of global cotton production, but demand is rising rapidly. Between 2017 and 2018 alone, production increased by 56%. As more brands and consumers choose sustainable alternatives, organic cotton will become a more accessible and widespread choice.
Why I Use Organic Cotton in My Handmade Products
"Born to Stand Out" Sheep Cotton Women Sweatshirt (Black & Blue) by Anke Wonder
As a designer committed to sustainability, I prioritize organic cotton for my fashion and textile creations. Not only is it a more ethical and environmentally friendly fabric, but it also ensures superior quality, softness, and durability.
Let’s not forget - organic cotton isn’t just better for babies; it’s also a great choice for anyone with sensitive skin. Free from harsh chemicals, it’s ideal for those with allergies, eczema, or skin sensitivities. Speaking from experience as someone who suffers from severe hay fever, I can say that wearing organic cotton truly makes a difference for me.
If you're looking for beautiful, handcrafted items made with eco-friendly materials, check out my collection of custom-designed apparel for women, men and kids. By choosing organic, you're making a conscious decision to support ethical fashion and a healthier planet.
Shop now and embrace the beauty of organic cotton!