What is GOTS Certification? Your Guide to Understanding the Global Organic Textile Standard

As sustainable and conscious consumption increases, products labeled "organic" are becoming more prevalent in our lives. With the growth of the market, distinguishing genuinely organic items from those engaging in greenwashing is crucial. This is where one of the most vital global standards, which instills consumer trust, comes into play: GOTS Certification. At Labelish, we fully detail what GOTS is, why it's so valuable, and what you need to look for when purchasing a product.

 

What is GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)?

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) is a globally recognized, independent certification system for organic textiles. It covers every single process, from the cultivation of the raw material (e.g., organic cotton fields) to harvesting, processing, packaging, labeling, trading, and reaching the final consumer. It is not just a "product standard," but a "process standard." This means that for a product to carry the GOTS logo, every link in the supply chain (farmers, yarn producers, fabric manufacturers, garment makers, label manufacturers—like us!—and sellers) must have been audited and approved by independent bodies according to GOTS criteria.

 

What Are the Core GOTS Certification Criteria?

Obtaining GOTS certification is a rigorous process involving strict criteria across two main axes:

 

Environmental Criteria

Organic Fiber Content: For a product to bear the "organic" label, it must contain a minimum of 95% certified organic fibers. For the "Made with organic content" label, this threshold is a minimum of 70%.

Chemical Restrictions: All chemicals used during production (dyes, bleaches, auxiliary materials) must not be harmful to the environment or human health and must be free of toxic heavy metals and substances on the GOTS prohibited list.

Water and Energy Management: Wastewater treatment plants are mandatory. No wastewater can be discharged into nature without treatment. Production facilities must develop policies for efficient water and energy usage.

Packaging: Materials like PVC, nickel, and chrome cannot be used for product packaging. All labels and packaging materials must also be biodegradable or recyclable.

 

Social Criteria

GOTS aims to protect not only the environment but also the people involved. It mandates the implementation of International Labour Organization (ILO) standards throughout the entire production process. These criteria include:

Decent work and fair wages

Safe and healthy working conditions

Freedom of association for employees

Strict prohibition of forced labor and child labor

Non-discrimination policies

 

How to Identify GOTS Certification on a Product

To ensure credibility, the certification must be visually verifiable.

Check the Label: A GOTS-certified product must clearly carry the GOTS logo on its product label (this is precisely where Labelish steps in!).

Verify the Certificate Number: Next to or below the logo, you will find the issuing organization and a unique certificate number. You can verify this number by searching GOTS's official database.

Look for the Wording: Simply seeing "organic" is not enough. Look for the clear phrases "GOTS Certified Organic" or "Global Organic Textile Standard."

 

Why Should You Prefer GOTS-Certified Products?

Trust and Transparency: You ensure that the product you purchase is genuinely organic and produced under ethical conditions.

Eco-Friendly: You minimize the use of chemicals harmful to nature and water sources.

Sensitive to Human Rights: You support fair trade conditions and worker health.

Skin Health: The products are ideal for allergic and sensitive skin as they are free of harmful chemical residues.

 

Labelish and Our Commitment to Sustainability

As a label producer, we understand the importance of a transparent and sustainable supply chain. Standards like GOTS mandate accountability at every stage of production. At Labelish, we are proud to offer accurate and reliable label solutions with our GOTS-certified collections, supporting sustainable fashion brands on their meticulous journey. As a conscious consumer, your choice is an investment in a better future.

Conclusion

GOTS is the most reliable and comprehensive assurance in the organic textile world. On your next purchase, look not just at claims of "organic," but at the tangible certificate—the GOTS logo—to make a healthier and more ethical choice for both yourself and our planet. This small label actually harbors a huge commitment and responsibility.