If you think that buying organic clothing for children is just another trend, think again. What many parents do not realize are that there are real benefits to purchasing clothing produced from organic cotton.
Organic cotton tends to last longer, feel softer, and be of a thicker quality than regular cotton. While it may be a little more expensive, organic material is very breathable, does not prematurely age, and does not trap perspiration like conventional cotton. In order for a cotton farm to be certified organic, it is inspected to make sure that the cotton grown meets a strict set of health and environmental standards.
What exactly is organic cotton? Organic cotton is grown chemical-free, without any pesticides, herbicides, or artificial fertilizers. Did you know that regular cotton fields are heavily sprayed with pesticides and herbicides? In fact, about 25% of the world’s insecticides are used on regular cotton crops yearly. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 20,000 farm workers die per year due to the exposure of these chemicals, many of whom work on cotton fields. You come into contact with these same chemicals on a daily basis just by putting on a t-shirt. Do you want your children to, as well?
Of course you don’t. Since a young child’s skin can easily absorb the toxic chemicals sprayed on fabric made from regular cotton, their exposure to these chemicals is significantly reduced when wearing clothing produced from organic materials. Many experts feel that organic cotton is much better for delicate skin, minimizing the development of skin allergies, if not preventing them. Regular cotton often causes rashes and eczema.
While there are many health benefits for your child, there are also environmental and social benefits. Supporting and celebrating organic agriculture is another reason to support the growth of organic cotton. Toxic load and farm pollution are greatly reduced, while promoting biodiversity and healthy soil. This fabric also supports fair trade working conditions and the welfare of animals.
At
lollie, organic materials are taken very seriously. Owners Alexis Del Campo Eyler and Cheryl Del Campo know the importance of buying comfortable and long-lasting organic clothing for today’s young children, beginning at birth. While not everything they carry is organic, they are constantly introducing new, organic lines, and working to source organic products from designers who have been carried in the shop since it opened in 2003.
lollie carries many brands, such as Angel Dear, Tane Organics, Feather Baby, Petit Bateau, and EGG by Susan Lazar, that use these materials.
Tane Organics uses 100% certified organic cotton, making sure their products have not had contact with pesticides, or any dangerous chemicals or metals. Using low-impact dyes, the company produces Azo dioxide-free, non-allergenic goods.
Feather Baby uses certifies organic Peruvian Pima cotton, as well as 100% natural dyes that are hand screen-printed onto their clothing. Pure and unblended, their cotton also steers away from pesticides and bleaches.
Angel Dear and EGG by Susan Lazar both utilize organic cotton and materials whenever possible. Angel Dear even uses recycled paper and soy ink in their printed materials.
Even Petit Bateau, a specialist in clothing for infants and children since 1893, has introduced an organic line to their collection.
This Fall, lollie will be introducing two new organic lines, Adooka Organics and Niho kids. So, for the latest styles in organics, check with lollie – always looking out for your kids – keeping them safe and stylish!
