Cotton is probably the most common material known to most of us. Conventional methods of harvesting cotton are chemical intensive and tremendously impacts not only surrounding soil fertility, and water quality but also the health of those living within cotton-growing areas. With more people becoming environmentally aware and knowledgeable about organics and their advantages, so has the demand for organic cotton. Find more about Natural Eco-Bedding below.
The production of organic cotton differs in many ways in comparison to regular cotton material, with the main difference being their low impact on the environment! Organic production systems not only replenish soil quality but also maintain their quality and ensure that no toxic by-products are formed and released into waterways throughout these processes. Organic cotton is also usually grown from healthy soil with organic matter through crop rotation, unlike conventional methods which involve intensive irrigation.
Organic hemp and organic linen
Two more modernised classic bedding fabrics are hemp and linen. Whilst cotton fibres are yielded from fluffs in mature cotton plants, hemp and linen are extracted from the stalks of the plant. Hemp and linen are processed the same way and share a similar look and feel, but their uses do vary slightly. Linen can be made into the somewhat thinner fabric than hemp and hence is smoother to the touch, whilst hemp is much more versatile and can be transformed into a much more comprehensive range of products. Cotton, on the other hand, has the incredible ability to be constructed into different looks and feels such as fleece (fluffy and plush) or sateen (silky).
Unfortunately, conventional cotton is made artificially and cheaply in labour-intensive industries, making it readily available and affordable but at the same time, harmful to the environment.
What about Modal and Tencel?
Modal and Tencel are compostable and biodegradable materials which are growing increasingly popular with ethical and conscious brands due to their eco-friendly properties.
Tencel is a brand name for a type of specialised lyocell fibres, produced by the Austrian company Lenzing AG. It is made by dissolving wood pulp and using a unique drying process called spinning, as is said to be 50% more absorbent than cotton. On the other hand, Modal is known as the second generation of regenerated cellulose fibres (with Tencel being the third generation), as is too made from wood pulps. Still, the production process and methods differ from Tencel. Though Modal and Tencel share similar softness and breathability, their main difference lies in their texture with Modal having a slightly more delicate touch and feel.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus fibre is a plant-based fibre and is fully biodegradable. Similarly, it is constructed through a Lyocell process, and the lightweight fabric formed can be classified as a sort of Tencel as well. However, unlike organic cotton plants, Eucalyptus is considered woody and needs the energy to convert it into a soft fabric before being used to make clothing, bedding etc.
Organic and Natural and Eco-Bedding Benefits
Environmentally sustainable
Organic cotton is a great way to practise environmental awareness in your everyday life whilst improving sleep quality. Conventional methods of cotton harvesting have taken a significant toll on our environment. For example, pesticides and insecticides (which might have cancer-causing agents) used to stimulate and promote cotton plant growth can create toxic water run-offs, that eventually end up polluting sizeable natural water bodies. Other harmful practices can significantly deplete soil quality and nutrients that enable other plants to grow naturally and healthily.
Green furniture
Making the switch to organic cotton/natural eco-bedding not only ensure your health but can also help farmers who are committed to producing excellent quality crops without the use of harmful chemicals. Organic cotton sheets are also often biodegradable and are produced by sustainable and environmentally friendly methods. Our choice as a buyer can significantly shape and impacts the way this industry is run. Over the past decade, many more have become aware of sustainability practices and how they can encourage a greener and more fruitful future for not only themselves but also the environment.
Healthier bed
With so many purchasing decisions we encounter daily, we may tend to overlook some items that might affect our health, including simple household necessities like bedsheets! Our bed is where we recharge and refuel at the end of a long day. Continuous tossing and turning throughout the night will create repeated friction between your skin surface and bedding. This will potentially expose yourself to pesticides and dyes that might have been infused during the manufacturing process. Making the switch to organic cotton provides you with the reassurance that you’ll be sleeping on sheets that don’t affect your well-being.
Higher quality and increased comfort
Organic cotton bedding feels better! The reason why you can feel the textile difference between organic cotton and conventional cotton is because of the way it is harvested. Organic cotton is usually hand- plucked and free from harsh chemical processing, resulting in a comfortability and softness that stays with it even with regular washing.
Natural Eco-Bedding
Since beginning operations in 1991, Herington, part of Jaspa Herington, has grown to become a leading manufacturer and supplier of quality bedding products. Formerly known as Aussie Pillows, their range includes pillows, quilts, protectors, foam and wool underlays and much much more. Their two brands, Jaspa and Herington, enabled them to provide a complete range of bedding products, from standard pillows and quilts to products specially designed for allergy sufferers and therapeutic use.
