In a world, where natural resources are shrinking day by day, preservation of water is critical. It is here that hemp can play a great role. Curious to know about the benefits of hemp clothing and how hemp clothes and water conservation have to do with each other? Read on.
Hemp products have become very popular, especially after growing awareness about the negative effects of cotton on the water level. Hemp clothes offer a solution to this cotton menace.
Let’s compare both hemp and cotton and then the picture will be clearer.
Hemp Vs Cotton- Water Consumption
Do you know that you need around 2700 liters of water to grow one kilogram of cotton?
Yes, that’s a lot of water! The saddest part is, there are some areas that produce cotton but are now running out of freshwater because of cotton production.
In fact, few of these areas have seen desertification as well only because of cotton production.
Image Source: Hempethics
Hemp production doesn’t consume a lot of water, unlike cotton. It needs half the amount of water. Thus, it helps in tackling the scarcity of water.
It is a strong plant and grows quicker than cotton as well. Not just this, hemp can produce 200-250% more fiber within the same land when you compare it with cotton.
So, hemp wins hands-on here.
Uses of Pesticides
The biggest challenge with cotton production is the quantum of pesticides that we use to grow this plant. Around 25% of the world’s pesticides are used by cotton farming.
These pesticides can be absorbed by our skin when we wear cotton clothes and this can result in irritation and allergy. Many people complain about breathing problems too, which are caused by cotton fabric.
Hemp is yet again the victor here merely because it is free from pesticides.
You will be amazed to know this, but hemp doesn’t need any chemical support to grow beautifully.
Hemp has properties to fight with weeds without any issues and this allows hemp to grow on its own quickly.
Longevity and comfort
Cotton is arguably one of the most comfortable fabrics to wear. However, the most significant disadvantage of cotton is that it breaks soon and becomes uncomfortable.
With continuous washing and regular use, cotton fabric tends to break down and that’s when it starts to become uncomfortable.
“Hemp fabric is stronger, when compared to cotton, and doesn’t break down. In fact, it becomes softer with regular use and washing. During the initial stage, hemp clothing may come across as a bit rough.“
Another advantage of hemp fabric is that it is durable and stronger. You can use hemp clothing regularly and wash as well without worrying about losing its elasticity or comfort.
Breathability and hygiene
The most robust feature of cotton is breathability. You can wear cotton cloth or use them as a bedsheet, sofa set covers and more without worrying anything.
“Although they are good breathable material, they can’t really deal well with moisture. Cotton holds moisture for too long and this is something which might not be considered as desirable.“
Hemp fabric, on the other hand, is breathable as well and wicks moisture away effectively. The best part about hemp clothing is that it has anti-bacterial properties, which clearly means that it will not allow mildew or molds to grow easily.
Final call
We consider hemp clothing to be the winner in every round. Not that cotton is not the right fabric, but looking at the various benefits of using hemp clothes and their role in saving water and pesticides, hemp should be an obvious choice.
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