At BELLA+CANVAS, we’re committed to sustainable processes, so we work to reduce the water and energy we use and partner with vendors to recycle or repurpose our fabric waste scraps.

As we take steps to care for the planet — and the people living on it — we know how important it is for many people to purchase garments made with intention. Each garment from BELLA+CANVAS is created with thoughtful and intentional practices that support our commitment to sustainability.

We go above and beyond in our production processes to create organic clothing for our business customers, to in turn, provide to theirs.

Here, we will discuss what you need to know about organic clothing and our production process at BELLA+CANVAS.

What Does It Mean if Clothing Is Organic?

The word organic can have different meanings, depending on who you ask. Often, when you see organic clothing, it was made with organic cotton. However, cotton is not the only organic material. There’s also organic bamboo, linen, and other materials.

If clothing is organic, that means it was made without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, and other chemicals.

Why Organic Clothing?

There are many reasons people prefer organic clothing. Here is a look at some of the benefits that make people want and appreciate them.

Better for the Planet

Research shows that conventional cotton production may lead to health and environmental problems, and increased costs in production. Organic cotton production practices, on the other hand, may reduce water consumption by up to 91%. When using organic practices, 40% of respondents in one study said they saw increases in beneficial organisms on their farms.

The USDA-NOP also requires all organic farmers to do crop rotations to benefit the soil. This crop rotation increases soil quality and helps minimize the number of pests.

Better for People

In addition to being better for the planet, organic cotton is also better for the people farming and wearing the cotton.

Farmers are not exposed to many of the harsh pesticides and fertilizers used in traditional production.

Organic cotton is also much softer and breathable because it is not processed with harsh chemicals, making garments more comfortable on the skin. Many people also prefer the feel of organic cotton compared to traditional cotton.

Organic Clothing Considerations

If you have ever looked at the prices of organic produce at a grocery store, you’ve likely noticed that it is more expensive than non-organic options. This is because it is more expensive to grow organic crops (including cotton), due to federal guidelines and stricter policies to follow.

While organic farming has many benefits, it is also important to note that because of the delicate processes required to farm organically, organic cotton prices will usually be higher. Although organic cotton may be more of an investment, many people feel it’s worth  the benefits to the environment and to others.

The 3001RCY Recycled Organic Tee

While we take many steps to support sustainability in our production  processes, we go a step further in creating with our organic clothing. That is why we created the 3001 RCY Recycled Organic Tee.

Made with organic cotton, this tee is luxuriously soft and smooth.

The 3001RCY is a classic, comfortable crewneck style. It is available in seven (7) beautiful earth-toned colors, reflecting the care for the planet that went into creating it. Whether you choose to wear it as-is, or customize it with your own printing and embroidery, you can feel the care that went into making this piece of organic clothing.

Ethical Production at Bella + Canvas

At BELLA+CANVAS, caring for the planet is a priority in all that we do. We are committed to sustainable and ethical practices throughout the production process.

Whether you are shopping for brown hoodies in bulk, or a wide assortment of wholesale t-shirts, you can shop with the peace of mind of knowing that all of our production is 100% sweatshop-free.

Here is a look at the production process at BELLA+CANVAS.

Platinum W.R.A.P. Certification

As part of our commitment to the planet and our team, all of our U.S. production facilities and sewing operations owned and contracted by us are WRAP Certified.  Adhering to the 12 principles of W.R.A.P., we are committed to fair, ethical treatment of all our team members, and a safe working environment.

Water Efficiency

The majority of our garments are dyed in Los Angeles using water-efficient processes. Our primary dyehouse uses Swiss technology and “ultra-low liquid ratio” dye equipment, using a dyebath of half the amount of water that is used by older technology.

Energy Reduction

We’re investing in solar projects at several of our facilities to help lower our carbon footprint. We also have electric car charging stations for our employees, so that our commitment to sustainability extends far beyond our facilities.

Bluesign® Approved Dyes

Our primary dyehouse uses only bluesign® approved dyes, chemicals, and softeners, signifying our commitment to minimize the use of hazardous chemicals and environmentally harmful substances in our fabrics.

Waste Reduction

We believe that just because a bit of fabric did not make it into a t-shirt does not mean it should go to waste. We recycle as many of our textiles as possible. Many of the remnants from our garments are turned into baby bibs, upholstery stuffing, and more.

Environmentally Friendly Practices That Extend to Your Hands

Our organic t-shirts support organic farmers who are doing their part to care for the earth with environmentalist farming practices.