Tabitha, Thank you! Very well stated. We googled around to see your earthage clothing and were very impressed. Loved your alpaca skeanie. Wishing you and earthage all the best. -Michael

Margaret, Washing a new swimsuit several times before wearing will probably reduce the possibility of a reaction but the amount of the reaction will be unknown until you try it. If your reaction is because of residuals from the lycra manufacturing process, they might wash out unless they are chemically bound to the lycra. If your reaction is caused by the chemical structure of lycra then it is less likely that washing will help. Because there are several variables and the specifics of your allergies are unknown, it is difficult to predict to what degree multiple washing might help. The best that you can do is to try it. Good luck! -Michael

Karen, Thank you! Very well stated. Your comment about fear-based marketing struck home. These tactics are very common but, often, subtle and difficult to address. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. -Michael

Hi, Tissy Pima Cotton is a very high quality type of cotton grown in the southwest U.S. and is characterized by its long fiber. Pima cotton plants produce a superior cotton fabric that is soft but dense and absorbent making it ideal for towels and bedding. Because pima cotton is just a type of cotton plant, it can be grown organically or with conventional chemical fertilizers and toxic insecticides and herbicides. Just because a fabric says that it is pima cotton does not mean that it is organic. You will have to look at the label closely to determine if the pima cotton is also declared to be organic. Hope that this helps. All the best and enjoy. -Michael

Hi, Antiqua Thanks for your comments. Because Tencel / lyocell are made of regenerated cellulose, many of the properties such as breathability and water wicking are similar to cotton. You shouldn't notice any difference in a comforter unless the manufacturer has added fabric finishers ... which unfortunately happens often in fabrics manufactured in China. You might need to launder the comforter before using or if you notice any uncomfortable odors. Tencel has been improved recently to reduce piling so hopefully that will not be a problem, especially in a blend with cotton. Good luck and we hope you enjoy your new comforter. -Michael

Faye, very sorry to hear of your experience. We frequently hear from others with similar comments that have found it near impossible to remove strong chemical odors from clothes. Bottom line is to give garments a strong sniff test before purchasing. If you notice any unpleasant, chemical odors then tell the sales clerk and leave the item. Don't buy it hoping that you can wash the odor out. Almost always, the chemical smell will persist long after regardless of what you try. -Michael