We all have products or clothing in the cupboard that are made of cotton. Nowadays, with a view to sustainability, a lot of focus is on organic or organic cotton. But what exactly is the difference between organic cotton and 'just' cotton? Do you no longer see the forest for the trees? Below we explain the difference!
Cotton production
For the production of textile, the cotton plant with dot at number 1 is the most used source and half of all clothing is still made. So huge amounts of cotton are needed in the world. Now you think: that is super environmentally friendly, all those plants? Unfortunately, that is not true. To make cotton plants grow well, a lot of pesticides and fertilizer are needed. Even almost 20% of all chemical pesticides are used for this!
In addition, a lot of water is needed for growth, which causes a lot of contamination in the ground.
Organic cotton
Because the production of 'normal' cotton is so stressful for the environment, there was an alternative, sustainable solution to this.
Organic cotton is produced in a different way, without chemical pesticides and the cotton is picked by hand.
Of course it sounds very nice that no more chemical agents are used, it is certain, but unfortunately this is not an attractive solution for farmers. Without chemical agents, the growth of the cotton plants is a lot slower. So less cotton can be produced in the same time.
In addition, the demand for organic cotton has increased enormously, which means that there are large shortages. The price is therefore often higher than 'normal' cotton.
Certification
Companies that grow and produce cotton in a sustainable way can join parties such as Better Cotton Initiative and can request quality marks, such as OCS and GOTS. These quality marks indicate that the supply of the organic cotton has been carefully checked and followed from the source to the end product.
Organic cotton for home
Organic cotton is not only better for the environment, it certainly also has other benefits! The structure is often softer, it absorbs better moisture and is often slightly better than 'just' cotton.
In addition, for babies and small children the risk of eczema and allergies is a lot less with organic cotton. Their immune system is not yet fully fully grown and can often tolerate sustainable cotton better.
We also like sustainable materials! Many of our products are made of organic cotton, for example ours baby blankets, hydrophilic canvases and hug!