The Benefits of Organic Cotton

Cotton is one of the most used materials in our homes; however it is also the most harmful crop for nature and humans. By switching to organic cotton you can help reduce the environmental damage it causes, which in the long run, will benefit us all.

What is Conventionally Grown Cotton?

Cotton is one of the most used materials in our homes. It used for clothes, linen, towels, home décor accessories, and even in our food as cottonseed oil.

However, it also can cause irreparable damage to the natural environment and to men, because of the large amount of chemical fertilizers and pesticides used. It consumes approximately 25% of the insecticides and 10% of the pesticides used for agriculture.

These chemicals leak into the groundwater and contaminate our drinking water and end up in our food supply. The production, manufacturing process, storage and transportation also produces more potential pollution.

Some of the pesticides used are known as human carcinogens which put the farmers at high risk. Also, the pesticide residues concentrate in the fatty tissues of the livestock that being fed with cottonseeds, and wind up in our meat and dairy products.

What's more, a variety of toxic chemicals, oils, and waxes are used to manufacture, conventional cotton fabrics. These chemicals out gas and are absorbed into the skin and respiratory system constitute major sensitivity problems.

Why Buy Organic Cotton Products?

Cotton by-products, mostly in the form of cottonseed oil, use as a common ingredient in cookies, potato chips, salad dressings, baked goods, and other processed foods.

With all the chemicals used to grow cotton and make the finished products, your kid is exposed to poisons residue that may affect their health.

So what is the alternative?

The organic one.

Organically grown cotton has been produced without the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. By reducing toxic chemical we help to maintain soil fertility and build a more biologically diverse agricultural system.

It also reduces human exposure to chemicals and pollution to our air, water, food and land. This means, it is safe for consumers, the workers who grow it, and the natural environment. Which in the long run are safer for your kid's future and health.

The Price

The main problem when shopping for organic cotton products is their high price.

On the other hand, since it is not sprayed with pesticides and its not processed with chemical bleaches, dioxins and formaldehydes it is more sturdy and hold up much longer.

So, if you take into account its health benefits and durability you might come to the conclusion that it is a better purchase for the long term and the price is no longer an issue.

What to Check When Shopping For Organic Cotton Items?

When shopping, look for "100% organic" labels.

“100% Organic”. Means that all components are organically grown and certified, including the sewing threads, and all processes used to manufacture the garment conform to the processing requirements stated in the standard.

If it's not 100% organic, check to see the amount of the organic cotton used in the item, if it is not stated, there's a possibility that it is as little as 1 - 3%, in this case you can contact the company and ask what percentage of organic fibers they use in the item you want.

Next time you shop for a t-shirt or a new towel, consider buying the organic option; By doing so, you will help reduce the environmental damage conventionally grown cotton causes, which in the long run, will benefit us all.

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