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| Low Impact Dyes
A low-impact dye is a dye that has been classified by the Oeko- Tex Standard 100 (an international certification process) as eco-friendly. Generally, low impact dyes do not contain toxic chemicals or mordants(which fix the dye to the fabric), require less rinsing and have a high absorption rate in the fabric (~70%). High absorption rates and a decreased use of rinse water create less waste water.
Fiber-Reactive Dyes
Fiber-reactive dyes are low-impact synthetic dyes that directly bond to the clothing fiber molecules rather than merely remaining as an independent chemical entity within the fiber. They do not contain toxic chemicals, metal icons or other known toxic substances, and do not need mordants. (which fix the dye to the fabric). But, the actual dyes in most all low-impact fiber reactive dyes are still made from synthetic petrochemicals. They require less rinsing and have a high absorption rate in the fabric. They are applied at relatively low temperatures (30ºC compared to the 100ºC needed for direct dyes), saving energy. Finally, there is no leaching out of the dye onto your baby’s sensitive skin.
Recent advances have created fiber-reactive dyes with colors that are brighter and richer, and they provide excellent colourfast properties. Low-impact, fiber-reactive dyes have become the dye of choice for many organic clothing manufacturers who want a diverse palette of vibrant colors. In order for products to meet organic certification, only low-impact fiber- reactive dyes may be used.
Natural Color – No Dyes Used
This includes color grown cottons and natural color
wool and alpaca.
Dirt Dyes
When the minerals and irons in the earth have been used for eons to color fabric.
Herbal Dyeing - Natural Dyes
Herbal Dyeing - Natural dyes are the first historical (and most friendly) colorants, the lone option for tinting clothing or other textiles until the mid-1800’s when chemists began producing synthetic substitutes, which soon took over. Herbal dyeing is a natural dye method that uses only medicinally rich botanicals and herbs, iron, and alum for color. No chemicals or heavy metals such as chrome, copper, or tin are used in the herbal dyeing process.
Conventional Dyes
According to experts, conventional clothing dyes can cause a wide variety of health problems for people with chemical sensitivities. It is often the dye fixative used to bond the dye color to the fabric that causes the most problems. Toxic chemicals sometimes found in the dyeing process include, Dioxin – a carcinogen and possible hormone disrupter. Toxic heavy metals such as chrome, copper, and zinc are known carcinogens. Formaldehyde which is a suspected carcinogen. When clothing is in contact against the skin these toxic chemicals are absorbed through the skin, especially when the body is warm and the skin pores have opened to permit perspiration. Once obsorbed these heavy metals tend to accumulate in the liver, kidney, bones, heart and brain. The effect is particularly serious in children and babies due to effects on growth and their relatively low body mass. Conventional dyes and garment finishes can cause a wide variety of health problems for chemically sensitive people ranging from skin rashes, headaches, trouble concentrating, nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, dizziness, difficulty breathing, irregular heart beat, and seizures. Symptoms in children and babies include red cheeks and ears, dark circles under the eyes. Hyperactivity, and behavior and learning problems. |
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