Organic cotton” means the cotton is grown, harvested, processed, and manufactured without pesticides, insecticides, bleach, or dyes and with a lower carbon and water footprint than traditional cotton. Basically, organic cotton is better for you and the planet.
Recent assessments show that the water consumption of organic cotton is 91% lower than conventional cotton. This is because the organic land is more porous with higher levels of organic matter in the soil; allowing the water to be absorbed. Additionally, organic cotton receives little irrigation and relies predominantly on natural rainfall.
So if organic cotton cultivation saves this much water, why does it still make up less than 1% of total cotton production?
One reason is simply that it’s difficult for farmers to transition. It takes 3 years to clear the soil of chemicals and pesticides. Also, commercially grown cotton relies on GMO seeds, developed by huge agribusinesses, and designed to be used only for a single season. Commercial cotton farmers are forced to go back to corporations each time they plant a new crop; giving these corporations enormous control.
The toxic relationship between commercial cotton and pesticides
A mind-boggling one-quarter of the world’s insecticides and pesticides are directed to the cultivation of conventional cotton. Commercially grown cotton is incredibly harsh on the soil, the local environment, and the communities harvesting it, due to the harsh treatment of the land. Pesticides and insecticides used in the growing of conventional cotton seep into the earth, eventually contaminating and poisoning our natural water system.
Lolade Seun-Adebayo
Why is organic cotton so expensive?
Organic cotton takes significantly more time and skill to grow, therefore costs more. However, fully certified raw organic cotton uses less water, less energy, doesn’t pollute drinking water, damage the environment, or impact the health of surrounding communities. The farmers practice more biologically diverse farming techniques, maintaining the health of the soil, and supporting local biodiversity.
LSA Beddings are made of 100% certified raw organic cotton. Our goal is to offer the softest, most pure and natural certified organic cotton bedding. To make thoughtfully designed, quality goods with processes that are both friendly to people and the planet.
These bed sheets also have the benefit of being naturally hypoallergenic; making them perfect for families with young children and sleepers with sensitive skin.