Why Choose Organic Cotton? Benefits for Your Health, Home, and Family
Why choose organic cotton? For years, I never gave much thought to my clothing beyond how it looked or felt. But as a pediatric nurse and learning more about the connection between our daily choices and our health, I realized there was much more to discover.
In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of organic cotton, how the fabrics we use can impact our health, and simple ways to make intentional choices towards wholeness for your home and family.
The History of Cotton
Cotton has been around for thousands of years. Throughout history, it has had many uses—its primary use being clothing.
With the invention of the cotton gin over two hundred years ago, cotton production has boomed. Nearly all of us come in contact with cotton many times a day. I bet you are touching some now!
Most people, like myself, assume cotton is safe since it is natural. How cotton is grown and processed today, however, is very different from how it was produced historically. That’s where organic cotton makes a difference.
Conventional Cotton vs. Organic Cotton
While cotton is a common fiber, the way manufacturers grow and process the cotton raises many questions among researchers regarding its impact on human health and even the environment. Many things seem to slip by.
Glyphosate is one of the most common pesticides used when growing cotton. Despite the fact that it has been noted by the World Health Organization as a “probable human carcinogen,” it continues to be allowed in the production of cotton (3). In fact, studies show that we can experience notable exposure to this chemical, especially when the treated material is wet (1).
Some independent businesses have made efforts concerning this, undergoing rigorous purification processes for their cotton thus resulting in untraceable levels of this chemical in their product (2).
Natural vs. Synthetic Fabrics: What’s the Difference?
Natural Materials
- Cotton
- Linen
- Wool
- Silk
- Hemp
Synthetic Materials
- Polyester
- Spandex (i.e., elastane)
- Nylon
While natural fibers are generally less processed, many synthetic fabrics—and even some conventionally processed natural fabrics—may contain chemicals that raise questions about long-term exposure.
While many argue that the trace amounts of things such as polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and dimethylformamide have little impact on our health, the reality is that our long-term daily exposure causes these subtle amounts to build-up and poses questions about our long-term health (4, 5). Even our pans, cooking utensils, floss, and microwave popcorn bags can contain these things.
Does Our Clothing Impact Our Health?
While little is known about the long-term effects of exposure to the many of the chemicals we interact with today, here are a few things we do know about the chemicals in clothing (5, 6):
- Dermatitis (i.e., skin irritation)
- Dysfunction of the metabolism
- Dysfunction of the immune system
- Disruption of hormones
- Disruption of reproduction
- Inflammation
- Neurological impact (e.g., fogginess, headaches, potential connection to dementia)
- Toxicity with continued exposure
What is Organic Cotton
Organic cotton eliminates many of the toxic chemicals used in the production of the crop as well as the manufacturing. Many organic cotton products cannot undergo treatment with harmful substances like formaldehyde or chlorine bleach (7).
Should Everything Be Organic Cotton
It is quite unrealistic for most to go completely chemical-free or even make the switch to organic cotton. The goal is not perfection but intention.
Who Benefits Most from Organic Cotton
While most can benefit from organic cotton, considering its breathability, longevity, and non-toxic properties, children benefit the most from this switch.
Why Organic Cotton Is Better for Babies and Children
Being a pediatric nurse, I have seen first-hand the importance of clothing in children, especially babies (hello, rashes and eczema!). Children’s bodies are more susceptible to chemicals than adults since many of their body systems are still in the maturation process.
Children (especially babies!) have thinner skin than adults, large surface area to weight ratios, and immature detox systems in the body, leading to increased chemical penetration and build-up (8).
Here is a wonderful article for you mamas and grandmas out there who want to learn more about why organic cotton is the best choice for your little ones.
Is Organic Cotton Worth the Cost?
Making the switch to organic cotton can reduce exposure to some agricultural and processing chemicals, making it an appealing option for those looking to reduce chemical exposure.
Since organic cotton is often processed more gently (e.g., fewer harsh chemicals), many products are known for their durability and longevity, making them a great option for families looking to buy a little less and hand-me-down a little more (organic cotton sheets from Target have lasted my family years!). It’s a small step, but it could save you some money in the long run.
Five Benefits of Organic Cotton
Soft and Breathable
Organic cotton is soft and breathable, making it a great option for sensitive skin, eczema, and comfort.
Fewer Agricultural and Processing Chemicals
Organic cotton has stricter standards regarding growth and processing that reduce the use of synthetic pesticides and chemicals.
Better for Farmers
Organic farming practices help decrease workers’ exposure to many chemicals and support healthier soil.
Better for God’s Creation
The production of organic cotton generally uses fewer synthetic chemicals and encourages eco-friendly farming methods.
Great for Babies
Those little ones spend nearly all day wrapped in fabric. By choosing soft, breathable organic cotton, we may be able to reduce unnecessary chemical exposure.
Why Organic Cotton Is Better for Your Home
Longer-lasting textiles
Fewer purchases
Better hand-me-downs
Getting Practical
If you are anything like me, when I discover something that needs to change, I want to do it all the way. However, this is not always practical. Making a few swaps in your home can make a difference. Here are some practical tips for making the switch to organic cotton and other clean materials.
Start with What Touches Your Skin Most
- Bedding
- Sheets
- Towels
- Underwear
- Baby clothing
Look for Trusted Certifications
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100 (an indication that the product does not contain harmful levels of roughly 1,000 chemicals used in the production process)
- GOTS-certified (verifies organic content and lack of chemicals)
Replace As You Need
- Replace items naturally as they wear out.
- Consider things like workout clothes or personal hygiene products.
It’s The Little Things
- Wash items before wearing or using them (may remove some chemicals).
- Opt for natural over synthetic fabrics (these can contain things like formaldehyde and PFAS, especially waterproof or wrinkle-free products).
- Clean out the closet to simplify and replace as needed.
Final Encouragement
I pray you feel equipped and encouraged to ask questions, keep learning, and make little choices to contribute to a simpler and healthier lifestyle for you and the people you love. This small step of intentionality can be another step in stewarding the gifts God has given us with wisdom and gratitude. Every choice—whether it’s choosing organic cotton, preparing healthy meals, or simplifying our homes—is another chance to glorify the Lord. Every part of our lives is for His glory (1 Corinthians 10:31).
References
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8883475/
- https://barnhardt.net/glyphosate-cotton-fibers/
- https://www.iarc.who.int/featured-news/media-centre-iarc-news-glyphosate/
- https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/chemical/pfas.htm
- https://www.alzdiscovery.org/cognitive-vitality/blog/are-your-clothes-harming-your-health
- https://anticancerlifestyle.org/toxic-textiles-whats-in-your-closet-the-hidden-chemicals-in-your-clothes-and-how-to-avoid-them/
- https://www.organic-center.org/what-organic-about-cotton
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7121289/
