Benefits Of Plant-Based Softeners
The innovative, plant based processes behind bioSoft and bioDry make our sheets even softer—and safer for the Earth.
Our sheets have always been made using organic fibers and low-impact dyes and GOTS certified processing, but at Coyuchi, we strive to do even more. Purchasing with intention can have a domino effect on the health of our families, our partners who help create our products, and our soil, so breakthroughs like miDori bioSoft and bioDry make a major impact.
Since 2018, we have been proud to be the first bedding company in North America to use this 100% plant-based finishing process that uses zero toxic chemicals. We have always chosen the strictest standards for environmental and social welfare to create the safest sheets possible for you, your family and the planet. The softener from Beyond Surface Technologies (BST) is highly biodegradable and doesn't leave an impact on the ozone layer—and it’s ZDHC, GOTS and USDA certified.
We sat down with BST’s CEO, Matthias Foessel to learn more about this innovative textile technology.
What is bioSoft?
miDori bioSoft is a textile softener which provides treated fabrics with a natural, smooth, luxurious hand.
What makes bioSoft different from other softeners?
Unlike many conventional softeners, miDori bioSoft is neither based on crude oil nor animal fat.
How does bioSoft make a difference for the Earth?
miDori bioSoft is based on renewable raw materials rather than finite ones like crude oil. We use an industrial plant seed oil, so it's not in competition with the food system. By doing so, we can achieve a positive impact in terms of CO2 footprint and greenhouse gas emissions when compared to conventional oil-based softeners, and it doesn't drive food prices up globally. Because our softener is biodegradable, it also won't interfere with recycling and upcycling processes.
What can consumers do to ensure they are advocating for safe chemicals?
Currently the best consumers can do is buy from and voice support for brands like Coyuchi, brands that go the extra mile to create transparency around what is inside the fabrics they sell and not stop at the fiber level.
It is a complex topic as consumers can't really see or feel what kind of chemical is inside the product they buy. Standards like Tox Services' Full Material Disclosure™, CPA’s GreenScreenor Levi's Screened Chemistry program do evaluate the chemicals used based on its hazard potentials and need to be complimented for doing so.
I believe we also need a shift in consumer mentality. If we continue to search for and buy the lowest-cost textile product that we throw away a few months later, then all we do is influence the industry to behave in the wrong way.
The best thing for our environment is choosing textile products that can be used for a long time and are produced using screened chemistry—they have the lowest environmental impact by far. Brands like Patagonia that endorse this concept are industry role models to me.
Anything else you think we should know?
The textile industry is a massive industry, so it has a significant impact on our planet. The right consumer behavior will lead to the industry accelerating its ongoing efforts to lower that very impact. We need to break the cycle of what the Ellen MacArthur Foundation describes as "Make - Take - Waste“ and invest in a circular textile economy.
Since our interview with Matthias in 2018, we have expanded our collection of miDori bioSoft products. Compared to synthetic standard products with similar performance, the miDori processes reduce CO2 emissions by up to 60%, using Life-cycle assessment (LCA) to assess their environmental footprint.
Our Cloud Soft Organic Sateen, 300 TC Organic Percale, and Crinkled Percale sheets are made using their lightweight, multipurpose bioSoft formula. Made from plant-seed based active ingredients and components from bio-waste streams (72% biocarbon content), bioSoft enhances comfort and wear, creating a smooth hand that feels soft and breathable.
Every step we take to make a positive impact on the Earth helps to fight climate change. Innovations like BST’s miDori bioSoft and bioDry prove once again that the most luxurious comfort can come from clean methods that keep our families and ecosystems safe.
