|
|
More Information
WHY BUY: Organic Cotton? | Hemp? | Organic Washable Pads? | Organic Washable Nappies? |
 |
|
|
|
|
Low impact : our hemp (hanf) fabric, hemp shower curtains and our purely hemp homeware collection not only look and feel great, but hemp is grown without the need for harmful chemicals, so it is better for our environment, wildlife and producers. Quality & Durability : hemp fabric is known for its strength and sustainability as well as for its great texture and style. There are many great reasons to buy hemp as an alternative to conventional cotton and other less sustainable fabrics. Cotton is one of the most heavily sprayed crops in the World, causing some devastating repercussions to the environment, wildlife and workers involved because of the hazardous chemicals used, whereas hemp needs little help to thrive; it is prolific, hardy and sustainable and is grown without the need for harmful chemicals. Our hemp shower curtains make an attractive, toxic-free and biodegradable alternative to PVC shower curtains. See the below article taken from 'The Independent', dated *July 2008, about PVC shower curtains: " Toxic shower curtain warningBy Geoffrey Lean, Environment Editor
American scientists are warning that the humble plastic shower curtain is responsible for releasing more than 100 toxic chemicals into homes, including some suspected of causing cancer or having gender-bending effects. A report from the Center for Health, Environment and Justice calls for PVC curtains to be banned, a call echoed by Greenpeace. Several stores have already phased them out. The research tested five curtains over 28 days and found 108 volatile organic compounds which, the study says, can irritate the eyes, ears and throat and damage the liver, kidney and central nervous system. Some, it adds, "are suspected or known to cause cancer in humans". All the curtains were also found to contain phthalates which have been linked to premature breast development in girls, and feminisation effects in baby boys. " We hope that the introduction of our purely hemp range of stylish hemp products, such as our biodegradable hemp shower curtains, hemp mix and match homewares, including curtain panels, tablecloths, runners, napkins and cushion covers plus hemp baby throws/blankets and unisex hemp bags will help form this bridge between awareness and the chance to buy alternatives that are not only more sustainable but actually perform well and look great too. We also offer a growing range of hemp fabrics by the metre in our own attractive, contemporary colours. We are proud to announce that our hemp shower curtains and hemp curtain panels are being used by Woking Borough Council at their Oak Tree House, a showcase for the Woking Low Carbon Homes Initiative, renovating an existing property to the highest sustainable standards. The house is open for education purposes, and public display, after which it will be donated to a family at the top of the council's waiting list. It is envisaged as a model for future new house-build programmes across the UK. We are also pleased to have supplied our DOC25H6 hemp fabric and cushion covers to the UK Green Building Council, which they have used for their furniture as seen at Eco-build 2010, Earls Court. Our hemp canvas is also being used for various other applications such as sun shades, beanbags, dog cushions, as well as for exhibition stands and banners. More Information
Hemp is one of the most eco friendly fabrics available. Unlike cotton, the plant needs little help to thrive and has a relatively short growth cycle, as well as needing less water to grow. In fact it is a weed-like grass, growing so prolifically and tightly spaced that it has no use for herbicides as it outgrows other weeds. It is naturally resistant to most pests, so there is also no need for pesticides. With its deep root system it grows without negatively affecting the soil and can therefore be grown consecutively for several years. In fact, growing hemp adds more than it takes out of the land, unlike cotton which depletes the soil of its nutrients. There is no wonder that hemp has been grown for centuries, it’s just somewhat surprising that its production ever declined. With a little bit of research you will find that hemp can be dated back to 8000 BC, where the fabric was discovered in a tomb in Mesopotamia. Hemp paper can be dated back to 770 AD in China. In more recent times, Columbus used hemp on his ships and the first Levis were made from hemp denim. Hemp also makes a good building material. A restoration and conservation specialist says that lining walls with a hemp/lime mixture makes for a healthy house that doesn’t grow toxic mould, while a report on a social housing project in Suffolk concluded that hemp houses use less energy to build, create less waste and take less fuel to heat, though they do cost 10% more to build than conventional brick and block houses*. The benefits continue. Hemp seeds are highly nutritious while its oil is highly moisturizing for the skin. Hemp was once the crop of choice in America before it became confused with its rather more narcotic cousin, and was banned. However, containing only a trace of THC (the illegal part), smoking it would not even bring a smile to your face. Jefferson and Washington were both hemp farmers. The Declaration of Independence and the American Constitution were written on hemp paper. Americans were told to “grow hemp for victory” during World War II as its benefits were well known and much needed at that time. Sadly however, this was before hemp finally lost its battle against the propaganda of less worthy adversaries, the same chemicals and cotton crops that now blight their, and our, lands. Many Americans are campaigning against this unjust ban as they recognise the huge benefit that this crop could bring back to their Country. Hemp fabric is very strong and durable and is known to be naturally resistant to mould and bacteria. The word canvas actually used to relate only to hemp. It blocks UV rays more effectively than other fabrics, is very absorbent and, with its insulative qualities, keeps you cool when its hot and warm when its cool. It also allows the skin to breathe. Hemp has been grown for centuries in China as a sustainable and most efficient crop, it is also grown in Romania. We are keen to support both of these Countries, as they have vast experience, gained over very many years, in growing and producing quality hemp fabric and where many of the general population still need to be accommodated with work. If such a resourceful, eco-friendly crop and products can be encouraged, it offers us all a good alternative to less sustainable industries for the benefit of the environment, consumers and of course, the inhabitants. Our contemporary hemp range shows the versatility and elegance of hemp fabric. We currently use a stylish and flowing, ‘linen style’ hemp fabric for our mix and match homeware and interiors range and for the baby throws, whilst using a denser weave for our hemp shower curtains, which absorb the water, stopping it from spraying through. Our great hemp bags are made from a hemp canvas, which we also sell by the metre, along with other hemp fabrics in many great colours. We are continuously designing more fabrics to add to our range, with great colours for increased choice. See our new reusable shopping bags as an eco-friendly, stylish alternative to the plastic throwaway and our unisex courier style bags, around town and satchel style bags for their vibrant yet practical design.
Thank you for your interest in hemp and our purely hemp collection. Please do contact us for further retail or trade enquiries. Resources **Natural Life Magazine March/April 2006 - Hemp For Houses by Rolf B. Priesnitz *The Independent, July 2008 - Geoffrey Lean, Environment Editor. Hemp Fabric Care Hemp fabric can be washed. However, some crease lines may remain, particularly with the heavier 100% hemp canvas fabrics. If you wish to limit this, particularly with the heavier fabrics, creases and rubbing should be avoided, so the machine should not be over-filled or a large drum should be used for fabrics. It is best washed without spinning, or on a low spin and pulled in to shape and ironed whilst wet, on the underside. Air drying flat after ironing is recommended and is easy with hemp, as hemp fabric dries very quickly. If preferred, hemp canvas can also be dry cleaned. There are now eco-friendly solutions available, such as “Greenearth". Our fabric, for sale by the metre, has been shrunk in production, but there will still be some shrinkage left. If washing, please note the pre-shrinkage guideline: To 7% for 100% hemp and to 6% for hemp/cotton mix. Please note this is a guide only and should not be relied upon. Customers are advised to carry out their own pre-shrink tests. Hemp fabrics have their own natural characteristics and should be tested for suitability prior to buying quantities by the metre; please note that fabric cannot be returned once cut to order. As with most dyed, natural fabrics, please avoid prolonged direct sunlight.
|
|
|
|
Hemp (hanf) is a textural, naturally attractive and most durable fabric that feels great to touch. It can be produced in various weights and mixes, such as hemp/silk to hemp canvas, so is suitable for the finest of apparel to heavy duty upholstery. It is naturally UV resistant and absorbent, and is also known for its anti-bacterial, anti-mould and insulative qualities. Our fabric feels soft as well as strong and has a contemporary elegance, suitable for today's more subtle taste. Hemp can be washed, but the coloured fabrics would benefit from a low temperature and, to limit creasing it should be hand washed or washed on a gentle cycle and pulled in to shape and ironed whilst wet/damp on the underside. Using a cup of white distilled vinegar in the rinse water is said to remove soap and help maintain colour, and can be used instead of chemical fabric conditioners for softness. Air drying flat is recommended and easy with hemp, as it dries very quickly. As with most dyed fabrics, please avoid prolonged direct sunlight. Hemp fabrics have their own natural characteristics and as such, should be tested for suitability prior to buying quantities by the metre. Hemp may also be dry cleaned, there are now eco solutions available such as "Greenearth", which may be more suited to some end products. Please see our own range of Drapers Organic purely hemp homewares, including hemp shower curtains and mix'n'match hemp curtain panels, hemp cushion covers and hemp tableware & runners. We also have a great range of hemp fabric and bags with their contemporary colours and different styles and hemp shawls and baby throws, for natural protection against the heat of the sun. Do contact us for further retail or wholesale enquiries / product details. We are also happy to discuss supplying items to trade customers' specification, subject to quantity and lead times.
|
|
|
|
Organic Cotton pads are safer for you and the environment. Many of us are unaware of the variety of chemicals (including dioxins) women are putting next to and into their bodies with the use of disposable sanitary products. By choosing to use washable cloth menstrual pads, women can reduce their exposure to these harmful toxins.
It is reported that various chemicals including dioxin have been found in major brands of menstrual pads and tampons. Dioxin is a known carcinogen and has been linked to cervical cancer, breast cancer, endometriosis, and immune system suppression, even if the exposure is small.
In addition, the plastic and glue backing on disposable pads reduces air circulation and creates a stagnant environment in which some bacteria thrive. This can cause vaginal irritation and yeast infection.
These washable pads are made of 100% Demeter certified Egyptian organic cotton; meaning that they are extremely soft and breathable as well as comfortable and irritant free.
The Organic Night Pads are designed for Post-partum and heavy flows – they also provide extra cushioning for post-partum sore parts. The mini pads can be used for light days (and for incontinence) and the day pads are for normal flows. The liners can be folded in four ways, when you need to change the surface, to keep you feeling fresher for longer. The night pads come with 2x liner, whilst the mini and day pads come with 1 liner. The Organic Cotton Mini Pads are best suited for incontinence. They are small (8 inch or 22 cm long) so can be carried easily in your bag and they are super-soft just like the other pads. You can use them with or without the liner that comes with the pad. They help prevent irritation and allow your skin to breathe, which is important for people who are wearing them everyday.
Even the sewing threads are organic
All of the sewing threads are also made of 100% organic cotton and the snaps are nickel free to avoid allergy and skin irritation.
Economical
These pads are designed to last for years, which saves you money and is better for the environment.
How to use
(1) The Night/Postpartum Pads come with two liners. The Mini & Day Pad come with 1.
(2) Place one (or more) of the super-soft liners into the pockets – this practical design allows you to just change the liner when necessary, not the entire pad.
(3) The print side of the Menstrual Pads should sit against your underwear. Fold the wings over the crotch and close the snaps.
3. How to care for the Pads
These pads are made of 100% organic cotton, which contains natural oil. To maximize its absorbency, wash the pad before you use it for the first time, to wash off its natural oil.
Once you have used the pad, rinse and soak it with laundry soap or cleaning agent in cold water, then put it in the washing machine with your regular detergent. They can then be air-dried or with the use of a dryer, on a low temperature.
5. How many Pads do I need? It is recommended that you have 4 Day pads, 2 Mini Pads and 2 Night pads to start with. If your flow is lighter than average, you need only 1 night pad. If you have a heavy flow you may want to add 1 more night pad and day pad, with liners. 6. Will These Organic Cotton Menstrual Pads leak? Just like any other menstrual products, you need to change the pads within a reasonable amount of time to prevent accidents from happening. It may be a good idea to start using them on light days and once you are used to them, use them for your heavier days and during the night. 7. What is recommended for heavy flows, night time and post-partum? Organic Cotton Night Pads are best suited for heavy flows, night-time and postpartum. They are 13inch or 34 cm long and come with 2 organic cotton liners as a set. While this is usually enough for heavy flows, you can also add liners for extra protection. 8. What sizes do the Organic Menstrual Pads come in? Mini Pad (comes with 1 liner) for lighter days
Size: length 8", wing-to-wing 8", liner 6.75" x 6.75"
Day Pad (comes with 1 liner) for regular days.
Size: length 10", wing-to-wing 8", liner 9.5" x 8.5"
Night Pad (comes with 2 liners) for nights & postpartum.
Size: length 13", wing-to-wing 8.5", liner 12" x 11.5"
|
|
|
|
- No Chemicals: these Demeter Certified 100% Organic Cotton Washable Nappies are produced without any harmful chemicals. Safe & irritant-free for your baby, better for the environment.
- 100% Egyptian Cotton: extra long fibres that are renowned for their durability, absorbency and softness. With no chemicals added, these nappies are super-soft and become even softer, the more you wash.
- Easy Care: no special care is required, these nappies come up as new, wash after wash.
Please see the below extract taken from the Women’s Environmental Network (www.wen.org.uk) for more information on the positive impact of using washable organic cotton nappies as opposed to disposable nappies:
Cost
Home laundered nappies could save parents around £500 on the cost of keeping a baby in nappies.
You can kit out your baby in real nappies on the high street for under £50. This includes all the nappies and waterproof covers you need for the whole of your baby's nappy wearing life.1 The same amount of money would only buy 9 weeks of disposables.2
Health
Disposable nappies are made of super absorbent chemicals, paper pulp, plastics and adhesives, while real nappies are mostly made of natural fabrics. If you want the best solution, organic cotton and hemp nappies and organic wool waterproof overpants are available at a reasonable cost.
Waste
Nearly 3 billion nappies are thrown away in the UK every year. The vast majority of these (90%) end up in landfill.
Nearly 8 million nappies are thrown away every day in the UK.7
We do not know how long it takes for the plastics in disposable nappies to decompose but it could take hundreds of years.
With a nappy disposal cost to each local authority in hundreds of thousands of pounds per year (Nottinghamshire Council, for example, estimates over £1 million per year8 while Bristol City Council estimates a £500,000 cost.9) it is not surprising that nappy schemes now play a key role in local authorities' waste strategies.10
Landfill space is running out. In addition, the European Landfill Directive and national government policies are driving local authorities to reduce the amount of municipal waste sent to landfill.11 The local authorities are struggling to stop waste amounts increasing, and so pressure is increased to turn to alternatives such as incineration .12
Incineration is not a trouble free solution13 and emissions from incinerators cause controversy wherever they are sited.
Waste prevention at source is the most effective way of reducing our rubbish. The Cabinet Office Strategy Unit’s stressed the importance of promoting real nappies: 'Even modest initiatives to displace disposable nappy use with reusable nappies can have a significant waste minimisation impact.'14 This has been taken up by Defra who have backed a scheme to promote real nappies .15
Environmental impact
All nappies have an environmental impact. The only way parents can reduce environmental impact when using disposable nappies is to use fewer nappies. When paediatricians suggest ten to twelve changes a day in the early weeks, reducing to around six a day later on, to further reduce the number of nappy changes is not good health practice. Using real nappies puts parents in control.
Ten top tips to help the environment: - Use an energy efficient washing machine
- Wash soiled nappies at 60oC
- Wash wet nappies and waterproof wraps at lower temperatures along with the rest of your laundry
- Avoid tumble drying – hang nappies out to dry or use an airer
- Avoid soaking – store nappies dry in a lidded bucket
- Avoid using unnecessary chemicals such as conditioners and sanitizers
- Use eco-detergent
- Never iron nappies or wraps
- Extend the life of your nappies - reuse them on another baby, or give/sell them to someone else
- Use washable liners
WEN has calculated that simply by using 24 nappies, laundering them in an A rated, energy efficient washing machine at 60oC parents can save nearly 24% global warming impact over that suggested in the Environment Agency report.- Life Cycle Assessment of reusable and disposable nappies May 2005. Click here for calculations.
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Hemp Tablecloths & Runners
