Our material focus

At AlTerra Retail, material choice is never an afterthought. We focus on organic cotton and bamboo viscose rayon because they offer exceptional softness, natural breathability, and gentle comfort, qualities that matter most for babies and toddlers with sensitive skin.

Compared to conventional alternatives, these materials generally require less water and fewer chemical inputs during production. The result is clothing that feels better to wear and reflects more considered choices, without sacrificing durability or everyday practicality. We recognize that sustainability exists on a spectrum, and material selection is one important part of a much larger system that includes manufacturing, transport, and how long a product is used and loved.

Spotlight on organic cotton

Organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides and can use significantly less water than conventional cotton farming. This supports healthier ecosystems, improved working conditions for farmers, and a cleaner foundation for garments worn close to the skin.

Among organic options, Pima cotton stands out for its long fibers, which create an exceptionally soft, strong, and pill resistant fabric. Often called the cashmere of cotton, it maintains its feel and appearance over time, making it a smart choice for clothing designed to be worn, washed, and passed along.

Why it matters

The fashion industry is one of the largest contributors to environmental strain, accounting for an estimated ten percent of global carbon emissions and roughly twenty percent of worldwide wastewater.

Synthetic fabrics add another layer of impact. Around thirty five percent of microplastics found in oceans are linked to the laundering of synthetic textiles, which shed tiny plastic fibers every time they are washed. These particles persist in waterways and can enter the food chain.

Choosing clothing made from natural fibers is one practical way to reduce this impact. Fewer synthetics means fewer microplastics, cleaner water systems, and gentler contact with skin. Organic cotton offers an added benefit by requiring less water to grow than conventional cotton, helping conserve resources while delivering everyday comfort.

Better choices, made easier

Sustainability is not a fixed destination, it is an ongoing process of improvement, learning, and better decision making. As AlTerra Retail grows, we remain committed to refining how we curate our collections and the standards we apply to the products we offer.

We will continue to prioritize materials with lower environmental impact, work with suppliers who value responsible production, and favor products designed for durability and long term use. Thoughtful curation, fewer unnecessary materials, and longer lasting goods are central to how we believe meaningful progress is made.

We also believe transparency matters. As we learn more and as better options become available, we will continue to evolve our approach and share that journey openly. Our path forward is about steady progress, informed choices, and building a brand you can trust today and over time.

Our Path Forward

Sustainability is not a fixed destination, it is an ongoing process of improvement, learning, and better decision making. As AlTerra Retail grows, we remain committed to refining how we curate our collections and the standards we apply to the products we offer.

We will continue to prioritize materials with lower environmental impact, work with suppliers who value responsible production, and favor products designed for durability and long term use. Thoughtful curation, fewer unnecessary materials, and longer lasting goods are central to how we believe meaningful progress is made.

We also believe transparency matters. As we learn more and as better options become available, we will continue to evolve our approach and share that journey openly. Our path forward is about steady progress, informed choices, and building a brand you can trust today and over time.

Baby wearing a brown floral ribbed gown and matching headband, smiling while lying on a soft blanket.
Sources and further reading

The information shared on this page reflects widely accepted research and industry reporting on materials, textile production, and environmental impact. For those interested in exploring these topics in more depth, the following organizations provide ongoing research and data.

World Resources Institute
Ellen MacArthur Foundation
UN Environment Programme
Textile Exchange