Certified Organic Cotton: Why It's Better Than the Rest

As fast fashion dominates and the planet pays the price, the clothes we choose to wear can really make a difference. We think that fashion shouldn’t have a negative impact on the world, the people who make our clothes, or your skin. That's why we love using certified organic cotton. But what makes organic cotton different from other kinds of cotton and fabrics, and why does certification matter?

Let's break it down.

What Does Certified Organic Cotton Mean?

When you buy certified organic cotton, you know that it has been grown according to strict agricultural rules that don't allow hazardous pesticides, industrial fertilisers, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Certification, such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or OEKO-TEX, makes sure that every stage of the process, from growing the plants to making the fabric, satisfies strict standards for sustainability and ethics.

1. No Harmful Chemicals

One of the crops that uses the most chemicals in the world is regular cotton. It makes up 16% of all insecticide use and around 7% of all pesticide use. These pollutants pollute water, harm ecosystems and animals.

Organic cotton, on the other hand, protects its crops with natural methods like compost and helpful bugs. Soil stays healthy and water stays clean without the hefty chemical mix.

2. Saving Water

Some studies have shown that organic cotton production consumes up to 91% less water than traditional methods. Why? Organic farming puts soil health and water retention first. Most organic cotton is cultivated in areas that get rain, so they don't need as much irrigation.

Choosing organic cotton is a way to help the planet use less water in a time when freshwater resources are running out.

3. Biodiversity and Soil Health

Healthy soil is a great weapon against climate change. Crop rotation, composting, and less tilling are all organic cotton farming methods that help make soil rich and healthy so it can store carbon.

This richer soil supports a wider range of life, from earthworms to pollinators to helpful microorganisms. This makes ecosystems stronger.

Better for Farmers

There is a farmer behind every cotton t-shirt. Farmers who grow cotton the old-fashioned way are often exposed to harmful chemicals and are stuck in cycles of debt because pesticides and GM seeds are so expensive.

In contrast, certified organic cotton provides a safer, more sustainable way to make a living:

• No dangerous chemicals: Farmers and their families don't have to deal with harmful agrochemicals.

• Less expensive to use: Compost and natural methods are frequently less expensive.

• Fair compensation and protections for workers: Certifications like GOTS don't just cover farming methods; they also cover social requirements that make sure workers get fair pay and work in safe conditions.

At Plainandsimple, we are dedicated to buying from farms and companies that defend workers' rights and treat them with respect at every step.

Better for You

Your skin is the biggest organ in your body, and it takes in what you put on it. Chemical dyes, bleaches, and finishing agents can linger on regular cotton clothes. Some of these can cause allergies, skin irritation, and health problems that last a long time.

Organic cotton that has been certified is softer on sensitive skin and doesn't have any hazardous finishes. The fabric we use at Plainandsimple is clean and safe, and it feels as wonderful as it looks.

We use low-impact, non-toxic methods to colour our clothes, so they are safer, softer, and better for the environment in every way.

Why Certification Is Important

People commonly use the word "organic" in ads, but without proof, it's simply a word.

When cotton is certified organic, it indicates that independent, third-party groups have checked that:

• There were no toxic chemicals or GMOs used to grow the cotton.

• The supply chain, which goes from the farm to the factory, has to meet high social and environmental requirements.

• The finished output can be traced, is clear, and can be trusted.

We only use GOTS-certified organic cotton at Plainandsimple. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the best certification for eco-friendly textiles. It doesn't only look at the raw materials; it also makes sure that the workers are treated fairly, that the dyes are safe, that the packaging is good for the environment, and that the wastewater is treated.

The Big Picture: Fashion's Impact

The fashion sector is the third most polluting in the world. It matters a lot what materials we choose. The difference would be huge if we all made even a tiny change, like moving away from fast fashion and towards high-quality, long-lasting materials like certified organic cotton.

By supporting brands that invest in certified organic cotton, you’re contributing to:

• Fewer greenhouse gas emissions

• Less wasted water

• Safer places to work

• Ecosystems that are cleaner

• A fashion sector that is more circular and responsible

Why Plainandsimple Uses Only Certified Organic Cotton

We think that having less is better. That's why we only make high-quality pieces of clothing with care, honesty, and a purpose. We create all of our t-shirts, sweatshirts, and tracksuits out of 100% GOTS-certified organic cotton.

We don't cut corners when it comes to being eco-friendly. For better materials, better processes, and a better future.

One of the easiest and most effective ways to vote with your money for a cleaner environment and a fairer fashion system is to buy certified organic cotton. 

Last Thoughts

It's more crucial than ever to know where your clothing originates from and what it's made of now that the fashion industry is finally being held accountable.

Certified organic cotton isn't simply better than the rest; it stands for a way of making clothes that is good for the environment, ethical, and long-lasting.

At Plainandsimple, we are happy to be a part of that movement, and we want you to join us.