So I was thinking about how we were going to further de-chemical our home as I was wiping my daughter’s butt for the third time this morning (she is a champion pooper and if I were wise, I would figure out when she is finished her entire load but alas, I am not) and I realized that although I use cloth diapers, they are cotton – regular cotton, not organic cotton.

Cotton is everywhere but the farming for the material is so hard on the environment. It’s popularity and the competition among producers has increased the use of pesticides so much that cotton is the most pesticide-dependent crop in the world – it accounts for 25% of all pesticide use. The impact this makes on our environment and our health is horrible. One adult T-shirt made with conventional cotton requires ¼ lbs of harmful chemicals.

Add to this are the dyes used in fabric. Coloured dyes, even with organically grown cotton, are still a problem. These are also toxic chemicals and their use and disposal are also harming our health and the environment. When I think of how much Eliza sucks on fabric I cringe to think of what she could be picking up. We received one of these dolls as a baby gift and I bought an organically dyed wrap that she sucks on while I walk with her but her bibs? Her blankets? Naturally coloured cotton is harder to come by but much more important in terms of babies, in my opinion, than adults due to the amount of time they spend sucking and getting their mouths, chins and necks washed.

Now, I’m not about to run out and buy a whole new set of cloth diapers, sheets, and clothing. I am not insane. However, it got me thinking. Organic cotton is all fine and good but for the majority of the population, cloth diapers are enough of an investment. Add organic to the bill and we are talking serious cash. The same goes for organic bed sheets, organic mattresses and organic clothing. As adults, wearing organic is a lot more economical. We don’t tend to grow. For children – jebus! I already need to resort to hand-me downs and thrift stores!

So, I have found an alternative – recycled cotton. I can’t always buy organic cotton but I won’t support pesticide production by purchasing new cotton. Of course, I was basically boycotting new cotton by necessity beforehand. However, the bottom line for many processes to change is demand. Manufacturers will do what consumers dictate, right? I’m hoping those who can buy organically will and those who can’t will as least buy reconstructed, recycled or just plain used cotton until things are more affordable. In the meantime, I will also be changing Eliza’s bibs – her favourite chew toy at the moment - as it is readily available and easily grasped. Anyone have a source to recommend?


(All my statistics and facts came from the Organic Trade Association website)

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