One of the most important things to consider when buying children's clothing responsibly is fabric type and certification labels.
Say "no" to microplastic by choosing organic, natural and natural recycled fabrics
Unlike synthetic clothing, natural, natural recycled and certified organic garments are biodegradable and do not rely on petrochemical industries for their raw material. They do not contribute to microplastic pollution. KIMO are an organisation who's mission is to unite local governments, prevent pollution and protect, preserve and enhance the seas and coastal waters of the North-East Atlantic and Baltic regions. KIMO issued a report stating that microplastic pollution from textiles is found in all of the world’s oceans and that emissions are continuing, and concentrations are increasing.
For an average wash load of 6 kg, over 700,000 fibres could be released per wash. These microfibres then travel to local wastewater treatment plants, where up to 40% of them can enter rivers, lakes, and oceans (depending on local wastewater treatment conditions).
Some children skin may also be very sensitive to synthetic materials, and items made from natural and organic fibres like cotton, linen, hemp, etc. might be a good alternative. Since most children are very active, clothing made from natural fabrics is soft and comfortable, and at the same time, durable and breathable.
Check labels for organic certification to avoid "greenwashing"
Clothing made from certified organic textiles is the ultimate level of sustainable clothing on the market at the moment. Textile processing often results in inadequately treated discharge of toxic chemicals into the air and water, as well as hazardous workplace situations.
Due to a lack of government regulations, unlike in the food industry, there are no clear definitions of which textiles can be called "organic" at the moment. This allows some brands to claim their products to be organic. Do not accept self claims - look for a certification! GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification is the highest international ethical and environmental standard for the manufacturing of textiles such as cotton, linen and wool. GOTS prohibits the use of chemicals commonly used in textile processing that can cause cancer, birth defects and other serious illnesses.
Chemicals, like persistent hormone-disrupting substances, also destroy ecosystems and biodiversity on an international scale. GOTS requires that all dyes and auxiliaries are assessed to its strict criteria and approved prior to usage.
To be sure a product is really GOTS-certified, you should be able to see reference to the GOTS label grade, the reference to the independent certification body, and the license number of the certified entity.
GOTS labels are sewn into every garment which has been through a certification process.
