We are all familiar with Cotton. Manufacturers use Cotton in all types of items that we use every day. For example, sanitary products, makeup, removal pads, Cotton Puffs, Ear swabs, Towels, Bathrobes, and the list go on. However, we are now seeing more and more items described as manufactured from Organic Cotton. In this post, I'll explain the differences between the two types of Cotton.

A significant difference between Organic and non-organic Cotton boils down to how Organic Cotton is grown and handled on its way to market. For instance, Cotton grown in the USA has to meet the National Organic Program (NOP) requirements enforced by the USDA.

The USDA responsibilities include pest control, growing processes, fertilizing, and the handling procedures that need to be adhered to for a crop to be considered safe for human consumption.

Growing Organic Cotton starts with non-genetically modified plants that are produced using naturally occurring fertilizers with zero pesticides. Using naturally occurring fertilizers helps promote biodiversity resulting in a healthier growing environment. Examples of naturally occurring fertilizers are derived from plant and animal matter or manure that comes from animal and human excreta.

In 2007, 20 countries produced ~ 60,000 metric tonnes of Organic Cotton. Four years later, the Textile Exchange Organic Cotton Farm and Fiber Report estimated that 151,079 metric tonnes were grown using 802 047 acres. Six years after that, production increased to an estimated 3.2 million metric tonnes valued at over $5 billion.

Finally, because more restrictions apply to the Organic Cotton industry than apply to its non-organic variant, it is considered better for the environment and more sustainable. Thus, to help our planet and everyone on it, stick with Organic Cotton!