The number of people wearing clothing made with organic cotton has risen by more than twenty percent in the last year, and for good reason – organic cotton has numerous benefits that can be enjoyed both by the environment and by you, the consumer. Understanding these benefits is important when considering whether or not to buy clothing made with organic combed cotton. This article provides you with the facts about organic combed cotton to help you make an informed decision about your clothing purchases.
What is it?
Organic cotton is grown without the use of any pesticides or chemical fertilizers. It is cultivated on land that has been cleaned up and given enough time (at least three years) to get rid of all the hazardous pesticide and fertilizer residues that were previously applied to it. The cotton comes from natural plants, which are ones that have not been genetically altered or subjected to chemical treatments (such as washes, bleaches, dyes, or smells) during processing and packaging.
Combed cotton is a very soft variety of cotton created by giving the cotton fibers a specific treatment before they are spun into yarn. The dirt and seeds are removed from the raw cotton after it has been harvested. Cotton fibers are separated and arranged next to one another in the same direction to create the threads, a process known as carding. Although time-consuming, this unique procedure raises the cotton fibers' overall strength, resilience, and quality.
Organic combed cotton is stronger and softer structurally than normal cotton. It's where our skin gets its "premium feel" and it's the only type of cotton we use to make hipSwan socks.
Production
Over the past few years, organic cotton output has grown significantly. Global production of organic cotton increased by more than 53% in 2006–2007 over 2005–2006, and then, astonishingly, by about 152% in 2007–2008. This translates to 668,581 bales or 145,872 metric tons that were farmed across 24 countries, with India leading the pack.
India, Syria, Turkey, China, Tanzania, the United States, Uganda, Peru, Egypt, Burkina Faso, West Africa, and Kyrgyzstan are among the biggest producers of organic cotton.
When can I wear it?
Organic combed cotton is great for a year-round wardrobe. While it can be worn during spring and summer months, its breathable fibers make it ideal for colder weather as well. It’s safe to wear organic combed cotton when temperatures reach between 0°C (32°F) and 28°C (82°F). For optimal comfort in colder temperatures, pair your organic clothing with other garments made of wool or synthetic materials.
Why Organic combed Cotton Is Better
Wearing organic cotton has a significant positive impact on your health and the health of our world, so whether you care about the welfare of animals, what goes on your body, or the welfare of others, take heed.
What distinguishes organic materials like cotton from traditional ones so favorably? Organic cotton is produced using techniques and supplies that have a lower negative impact on the environment. Using growth methods that restore and preserve soil fertility and create biologically diverse agriculture is a major focus of the organic movement. Additionally, organic cotton consumes a lot less water.
Ready to shop organic combed cotton socks?
Our chill, flow and roam styles feature organic combed cotton:
