5 Reasons Why Organic Cotton Works Well In Hot Weather
Struggling to keep your baby or child cool in the hot weather? Wondering what clothes are best for them to wear? The outside temperature obviously plays a role in their comfort, but so to do the clothes they wear. Some fabrics allow them (and us) to cope better in the heat than others. Organic cotton is one such fabric.
Not only is organic cotton more environmentally friendly than synthetic fibres, but it’s also breathable and absorbent, making it a great choice for hot humid weather and warm, sticky children. Discover 5 reasons why organic cotton is a summer favourite for babies, children and adults alike.
1. Organic cotton lets your skin breathe
Tightly woven fabrics limit air flow and create warmth. Organic cotton however, has loosely woven or knitted fibres, which helps to increase the airflow. This air circulation helps us to regulate our body temperature, and lets our skin breathe.
2. It absorbs moisture
Does your baby or child ever wake up hot and sticky? Organic cotton is great at absorbing sweat and moisture. And because it's breathable, this moisture can easily evaporate, preventing your child from feeling damp and sticky. In contrast synthetic fibres, such as polyester and nylon repel water and moisture rather than absorbing it.
3. Organic cotton has hypoallergenic properties
No toxic chemicals or pesticides are used in the growing of organic cotton. As a result its natural fibres are gentle on the skin and less likely to cause rashes and skin irritations.
4. It’s insulating
Not only does organic cotton provide comfort and breathability in the hot weather, but it also provides insulation and warmth in the cold. It contains air pockets, which trap the air, helping you to feel insulated. In essence, it’s a fabric for all seasons!
5. Organic cotton lasts longer
Pesticides and fertilisers are used in the growing of conventional cotton. These chemicals can weaken the fibres. In contrast, no toxic chemicals are used in the growing of organic cotton, allowing the fibres to grow strong and healthy. This results in a higher-quality fabric that is more resistant to wear and tear, and can be enjoyed all summer-long (and beyond, as the items are passed on to siblings and friends).
Conventional cotton is also breathable and absorbent. So, why buy organic?
In short, organic cotton is kinder to your skin, kinder to the farmers and kinder to the planet. Here’s why:
- Less water used: Cotton is often described as a ‘thirsty crop’. A cotton t-shirt alone takes up to 2,700 litres of water to produce. This is enough water for one person to drink for 900 days. However, 91% less water is required for growing organic cotton. Why? Organic cotton is usually grown in rain-fed areas. This means farmers can use the rainwater to feed their crops, rather than diverting water from other sources. Organic cotton farmers use multiple techniques to reduce water usage, including rainwater harvesting, looking after their soil and using seed varieties that are drought resistant. The avoidance of pesticides also helps save water, as it removes the requirement for large volumes of water as a dilutant.
- No nasty chemicals: Organic farming avoids toxic pesticides and fertilisers, helping to protect the soil quality, and reduce the pollution of lakes, rivers and drinking water.
- Organic cotton farmers receive a better price for their cotton. They often use sustainable farming practices, such as crop rotation to increase the soil quality. By growing other crops alongside their cotton they receive another source of income and greater stability. Plus, the avoidance of nasty chemicals reduces possible risks to their health, and the health of those that live nearby.
- Organic cotton tends to feel softer and is more durable. Unlike conventional cotton, the fibres aren’t broken down by chemicals, which results in a softer fabric with hypoallergenic properties. This means organic cotton is less likely to cause rashes and skin irritations.
At Ducky Zebra all of our clothes are made from GOTS certified organic cotton. They’re also free from stereotypes (we don’t believe in pinks for girls and blues for boys), kid-approved - so we know children want to wear them, and fun and colourful. Take a look at our range for some summer inspiration.
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