First, one needs to distinguish between organic fibers and organic clothing.  Organic fibers are grown in controlled settings with no pesticides, herbicides, or other chemicals. Only natural fertilizers are used and the soil and water are monitored. If a fiber is “certified organic” its growing conditions have been monitored and certified by an agency from one of the several organic trade associations worldwide.

However, growing the natural fibers organically is only half the equation to qualify as organic clothing.  The manufacturing process is the other half and often the half that is the most abused by toxic chemicals.  Organic clothes do not receive any synthetic chemical finishes or treatments such as moth resistant, fire retardant, easy care, anti-pilling, stain resistant, or wrinkle-free. Dyes used on organic clothing should be either plant / mineral derived or if not of natural origin are environmentally responsible low impact dyes. No heavy metals or other harmful chemicals should be used in the dyeing process. Thus an ethically and environmentally aware approach is extended to all aspects of the organic clothing industry.