The number of people wearing clothing made with organic combed cotton has risen by more than twenty percent in the last year, and for good reason – organic combed cotton offers numerous benefits for both the environment and the consumer. Understanding these benefits is crucial when considering your next clothing purchase. This article provides you with essential facts about organic combed cotton to help you make an informed decision.
What is organic combed cotton?
Organic combed cotton is grown without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers. This cotton is cultivated on land that has been detoxified for at least three years to eliminate hazardous residues. The cotton plants are natural and free from genetic modifications and 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.
The production process of organic combed cotton
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 to wear organic combed cotton?
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 for you and the planet
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 favourably? 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.
Shop our organic combed cotton socks
Our chill, flow and roam styles feature organic combed cotton. Experience the comfort and sustainability of hipSwan's organic combed cotton socks:
For more information on organic cotton production standards, visit the Global Organic Textile Standard [GOTS] website.
