Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Eco-Friendly Linen



Linen is a durable, long-lasting textile made from the flax plant. Although linen fabric has been used for centuries, consumers have recently become interested in organic linen, because it is made from flax that is grown without toxic herbicides, fertilizer, fungicides or insecticides.

Since flax is grown sustainably it does all the linen products are organic.  It is also well suited to crop rotations ensuring that the earth's resources won't be damaged or depleted.  The result is an industry that is beneficial environmentally, for growers, communities, manufacturers, retailers and the users of organic linen products.

As a fabric organic linen is durable, retains its shape, does not pill, and becomes softer with each laundering. Organic linen is resistant to bacteria, dirt and stains.  To reduce wrinkling organic linen may be dry-cleaned, however, if wrinkles are not a worry it can also be washed at home. The texture of organic linen fabric can vary from smooth and soft to coarse and earthy.  As clothing it is a crisp, cool, lightweight fabric that will wick moisture away from the body, making it perfect for hot summer weather. it is also suitable for bedding and is ideal for all seasons as it is cool and comfortable in warm weather and insulating for winter warmth.
 
Organic linen's elegant, natural appearance that makes it appropriate for a variety of clothing styles.  Organic linen is available in a variety of textures and weights and may be left in its natural state or subtly colored with eco-safe dyes. 

Around the house, organic linen makes attractive tablecloths, comforters, duvets, shower curtains, bath mats, crib blankets, wall hangings and even pet bedding.

Monday, May 13, 2013

GOTS hits 3000+ As Organic Production Increases

Last month GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) released it's 2012 annual report and the great news that over 3000 textile facilities were implementing its standards representing an 11% increase over 2011.  The European market alone grew it's membership by 20%.  GOTS attributes the great strides it is making to eco-conscious consumers.  Herbert Ladwig, GOTS' managing director described the increase in organic textile production as a "pull effect" based on consumer demand for ecologically and socially responsibly processed textiles forcing companies to seek more sustainable supply chains.  To read more on the great work of GOTS read their report at GOTS 2012 Annual Report.  To learn more about other textile and agricultural certifications visit Eco-Living In Style's Environmental Certifications page.

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

American Made Watches

Shinola Watches....Shining in Detroit!  Made in America.

American Woodworkers

Eco-Living In Style has just found a new site supporting companies that use sustainable wood sources in North America.  We've been all over the site and want to let everyone else know about it. It is called the Sustainable Woods Network and their web address is www.sustainablewoods.com.  Check them out.