Organic cotton textiles

If minimising the amount of chemicals in your home is important to you, then organic cotton for your sheets, baby bedding and other linens should be high on your list of must-haves. And as a sustainable alternative to standard cotton, it is also a better choice for the environment.

From the start of its life, through the entire process from planting to the finished product, organic cotton must adhere to strict standards. As with all organic agriculture, the use of toxic and persistent chemical pesticides and fertilisers, and genetically modified organisms, is prohibited.

"Although there are some sprays that are certified organic, very little is used and the organic process is very strict," says Nature's Child owner Jannine Barron. "To ensure this, through the manufacturing process the cotton farm will receive surprise visits from accredited agencies to verify that everything is chemical free."

The International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) has produced basic standards covering organic production and also textile processing, which provide a minimum basis upon which standards in many countries have been based.

"When buying organic cotton textiles they should be labelled, but if you are not certain, you should ask to make sure," says Jannine. It's worth making the effort, as organic cotton tends to last longer than comparable fabrics and is also more absorbent.

Although some organic cotton is grown in Australia, it comes mainly from developing countries such as India, Peru, Egypt and Turkey. "Due to geographical conditions, every country produces cotton with a different texture," says Jannine. "For example, South American and Indian cotton tends to be very soft, while Australian cotton is a bit tougher. Basically, the different weaves produce different results."

Organic cotton sheets and bedding are very safe for babies and a range of other products including clothing, nappies, tea towels and bath towels are also available. With an increasing range of items coming onto the market, they are easy to find and a good move toward keeping your family healthy.