natural
Many of the fibers that compose the materials for our clothes are naturally occurring. Silk and cotton are examples of natural fibers. Silk is produced by the silkworm, and cotton is grown as a plant. However, several chemical processes are used to treat silk thread so that it is shrink-resistant and will repel water. Chemical dyes are frequently used to color various fabrics. Cleaning requires special soaps or chemicals used to dry-clean materials. Cotton will grow better if the boll weevil an insect that kills the plant is eliminated with the use of specific insecticides. Ironing of cotton is made easier by the use of chemicals that produce a permanent press in the material.