What is Organic Cotton? What Makes it Organic?

There is an abundance of natural and synthetic materials available to today’s consumer, but when it comes to clothing and home furnishings, cotton is king. In fact, cotton is the most widely used natural fiber on earth. Due to its ability to grow in so many regions around the world, and thanks to its trademark softness, durability, and versatility, cotton is ubiquitous both in the home and in garments everywhere.

But what exactly is cotton, and why is it so widely used? More importantly, what is organic cotton? Is it worth it to choose organic when possible? Below, we’ll explore the answers to these questions and more.

Organic Cotton 101: The Basics

We all know how important cotton is. In many ways, it clothes the world. Today, many of our favorite products – from organic cotton pajamas to quality cotton comforters – are made of the stuff. But what makes cotton organic? And why should you care?

Let’s rewind for a minute – what is cotton?

There are several species of cotton, a shrubby plant in the genus Gossypium. One of the world’s top-produced crops, it is cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions across the globe, with India currently being the world’s leading producer. 

The plant is grown specifically for the fibrous casing around the seed head. The fiber, comprised mostly of a carbohydrate known as cellulose, is valued for its use in textiles. It is spun either into yarn or thread to create the soft, breathable material we all know and love.

The Problem with Cotton

Despite its comfort, convenience, and undying popularity, there are several downsides to cotton products and their cultivation. 

Firstly, cotton is a water-intensive crop. The World Wildlife Fund estimates that the production of a single cotton t-shirt requires 713 gallons of water! 

What’s more, global cotton agriculture consumes 200,000 tons of pesticides. Coupled with the 8 million tons of fertilizers used annually in cotton agriculture, this means that your innocent-looking cotton wardrobe might not be so innocent after all.

What is Organic Cotton, Exactly?

Simply put, organic cotton is sourced, grown, and harvested without the use of synthetic chemicals. The entire process is held to cleaner standards, making it a healthier option for the planet. 

Organic cotton crops are also shown to require far less water than standard agricultural methods entail.

Farming Organic Cotton vs. Regular Cotton

Now that the contrast between organic and regular cotton is clear, how is it decided if a farmer’s crop is organic or not? Let’s take a look at the criteria for classic and organic cotton.

Organic Cotton Certifications to Know

To obtain verification as an organic product, cotton farmers need to have their operations certified by an accredited third-party organization. Some of the best-known organizations through which farmers obtain these certifications are the:

• Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
• Organic Content Standard (OCS)

These and other noted organizations ensure that farmers who wish to qualify for the coveted organic title maintain specific standards of production and harvest. So, those organic cotton sheets you’ve had your eyes on? Their presence on the shelf means they passed the certification process.

How to Care for Organic Cotton

After purchasing organic cotton products, you’ll want to be sure you care for them appropriately to ensure they last a long time. Some helpful organic cotton care tips include:

• Wash using cold water, and always with similar colors
• Wash inside out to protect external colors and patterning
• Avoid using bleach or synthetic detergents
• Dry on low heat or air dry to prevent wrinkling and unnecessary wear

Our Favorite Organic Cotton Brands

Looking to get your hands on some soft, natural, environmentally friendly cotton? Check out the products by some of our favorite certified organic cotton companies.

• Coyuchi – Offering a full line of sustainably made bedding, bath essentials, and more. You’ll love their organic cotton blankets! 
• Avocado – This great company is known for its organic mattresses, but also offers a full selection of bedding and bath accessories.
• Quince – Offering thoughtfully sourced and produced clothing for men, women, and children. They even sell backpacks, swimwear, and accessories!
• Brooklinen – Selling a variety of premium bedding and bath essentials, all designed and produced sustainably with comfort in mind.

Our Take

For people all over the world, cotton is an essential fiber. As a matter of fact, its comfort, durability, and versatility make it indispensable. The drawbacks are tied to its production, but the proliferation of organic cotton operations can alleviate the stresses that cotton exerts on the planet. 

So next time you go shopping for a product, look for items made of certified organic cotton. You can feel good about wearing or sleeping in organic cotton products–and the planet will thank you for it!

Image by JUAN PABLO GONZALES DELGADO from Pixabay