Organic cotton: differences, benefits and limitations of organic cotton
Organic cotton is now widely used in responsible fashion collections. But how does it really differ from conventional cotton? Cultivation, pesticides, water, labels and limitations: here are the main things to know before assuming that an organic cotton garment is necessarily more responsible.
What is organic cotton?
Organic cotton is a natural fibre grown from plants cultivated according to organic farming rules. Its production excludes the use of certain synthetic substances prohibited by the relevant specifications and relies on farming practices governed by certification.
The term "organic" primarily refers to the cultivation of the fibre. To find out what guarantees apply to the subsequent stages—spinning, dyeing, garment making—you need to look at the certifications and information associated with the textile product.
What is the difference between organic cotton and conventional cotton?
The main difference lies in the method of cultivation. Conventional cotton and organic cotton produce the same plant fibre, but the rules regarding agricultural inputs and production practices differ.
Organic cotton is therefore not a new material: it is cotton grown according to organic specifications.
Does organic cotton use less water?
It is difficult to provide a single figure that applies to all crops. Cotton water consumption depends heavily on the climate, region, yield, rainfall, and whether or not irrigation is used.
Some organic crops rely more on rainwater, but this does not mean that all organic cotton systematically uses a certain amount less water. It is best to avoid universal comparisons without knowing the production context.
What are the benefits of organic cotton?
Organic specifications aim, among other things, to regulate farming practices and the use of inputs. Depending on the production system, this can help reduce some of the impacts associated with the use of pesticides and synthetic fertilisers.
For consumers, certification primarily provides verifiable information about how the fibre is grown, rather than relying solely on a marketing claim.
What are the limitations of organic cotton?
Organic does not mean "impact-free". Cultivation uses land and water, and the fibre must then be harvested, spun, woven or knitted, dyed, made into a garment and transported.
The durability of the garment is also essential. An organic cotton t-shirt worn very few times is not as valuable as a quality product that is kept and used for several years.
What is the GOTS label?
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) is one of the best-known standards for textiles containing organic fibres. It is not limited to cotton cultivation: its framework also covers various processing stages and imposes requirements on processes and the production chain.
The exact wording and percentages depend on the product's labelling category. It is therefore best to check the garment's label or product sheet rather than interpreting the logo alone.
→ To learn more: understand the GOTS label.
Organic cotton or recycled cotton: which should you choose?
The two serve different purposes. Organic cotton refers to the cultivation method of a new fibre, while recycled cotton uses cotton material that has already been produced.
Mechanical recycling can shorten the fibres, which explains why recycled cotton is sometimes blended with virgin cotton or other fibres to achieve the desired characteristics.
→ Read also: what is recycled cotton?
How to identify an organic cotton garment?
Check the composition and certification information on the label or product sheet. A simple commercial claim such as "responsible cotton" does not necessarily provide the same guarantees as clearly identified certification.
To see how cotton compares with other fibres, check our textile materials guide. You can also find the organic cotton products available at NEIWA.
Frequently asked questions about organic cotton
Is organic cotton better for the environment?
Organic farming can offer advantages in certain areas, particularly regarding the use of certain inputs. However, the overall impact depends on the growing region, water use, yields, processing, and the garment's lifespan.
Is organic cotton softer?
Not necessarily. The feel depends on the quality of the fibres, yarn, knitting or weaving, and finishing. The organic designation primarily describes the method of cultivation.
What is the difference between organic cotton and GOTS?
"Organic cotton" describes the agricultural origin of the fibre. GOTS is a textile standard that regulates the presence of organic fibres and various processing stages according to its specifications.
Is organic cotton biodegradable?
Cotton fibre is plant-based and can biodegrade under certain conditions, but a finished garment may contain dyes, treatments, threads, or blends with other fibres that affect its end-of-life.
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