What is Global Organic Textile Standard?
Welcoming Global Organic Textile Standards into the Family
As parents, it's only natural to worry. We do everything we can to prevent our little ones from experiencing illness or physical dangers, but do we consider the safety of our children’s clothing enough? We are not here to preach to you about all the bad things in the world, but some simple steps we can take as parents to not only help our children but also the planet.
In this blog, we are going to explore Global Organic Textile Standards, also known as GOTS. We will look at what they are, what factors meet the Global Organic Textile Standards, how to check if a product is GOTS certified, and how Sky Rockets is involved with this movement.
What is the Global Organic Textile Standard?
Imagine an organisation that is dedicated to checking the standards of baby clothing, not only making sure they are comfortable and cute but also made with love for the environment and respect for the people who craft them. That is exactly what GOTS is all about.
GOTS is recognised as the world’s leading processing standard for textiles made from organic fibres. You can consider it as the ultimate quality assurance label for organic textiles worldwide. Products that have been GOTS certified have gone through thorough testing which studies the production process from harvesting the raw materials to the final product, as well as meeting stringent environmental and social criteria.
So, when you spot the GOTS label on your little one's clothing, you can be rest assured that it's been made with the utmost care for both your baby and the planet.
What Factors Meet the Global Organic Textile Standard?
As mentioned before, the testing products go through to become GOTS certified is thorough. This independent certification of the supply chain helps prevent the issues of Greenwashing, which happens when brands claim to be sustainable but don’t officially qualify.
There are many factors which are taken into consideration, such as; fibre production, processing and manufacturing, health and safety, environmental standards, packaging and labelling, the quality of the textile and the social and humanitarian aspects. To gain more understanding of GOTS, let’s delve into some of these criteria in more detail.
Fibre Production
GOTS states that “only textile products that contain a minimum of 70% organic fibres can become GOTS certified”. Not only must products contain at least 70% organic materials, but there must also be no chemicals used in the clothing, such as dyestuff, auxiliaries, heavy metals, pesticides, and perfluorinated and polyfluorinated chemicals (PFCs).
Environmental Standards
In order to meet environmental standards, GOTS checks the efficiency of the manufacturing process, taking into consideration water usage and waste management. They ensure that the business is following the proper procedures for sludge disposal and preventing byproducts from leasing into the environment.
Packaging and Labelling
Not only must the product meet the sustainable factors but the packaging and labelling from sourcing to distribution is accounted for. They require all packaging to meet the sustainable forest management certification or be made from recycled post-consumer waste.
Social and Humanitarian Criteria
GOTS doesn't just care about the planet; it cares about people too! Certified products uphold fair labour practices throughout the supply chain, ensuring that everyone involved, from farmers to factory workers are treated ethically and paid fairly for their hard work. No child labour and no discrimination at all, only fairly paid, safe working environments and controlled working hours.
How to Check a Product is Global Organic Textile Standard Certified
So, imagine you are browsing the internet for baby sleepwear and you come across our adorable ergoPouch baby sleepwear, but you’re not sure how to tell if the item is GOTS-certified. Here are some handy tips for verifying the authenticity of GOTS-labelled products:
- Look for the Label: Keep an eye out for the GOTS logo or label on the product packaging or tag. This indicates that the item has undergone the necessary testing and meets the strict criteria set by the Global Organic Textile Standard.
- Double-check the Details: Don't hesitate to delve deeper into the product description or specifications. Look for specific mentions of GOTS certification or organic materials to ensure that you're making the right choice for your baby.
- Trustworthy Retailers: When in doubt, stick to reputable retailers known for their commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. They're more likely to carry a wide selection of GOTS-certified baby clothes, making your shopping journey a whole lot simpler.
- Reach Out: Still unsure? Don't hesitate to reach out to the brand or manufacturer directly. They'll be more than happy to provide you with additional information about their products and certifications, giving you peace of mind as a parent.
Why We Chose to Work with GOTS Brands
At Sky Rockets, we care about your family’s well-being, that is why we work with brands such as Kabode who believe in bettering our planet, providing products which choose sustainable materials and high-quality fabrics for your baby's bedding and everything in between.
Additional Information for Parents
Now you know all about GOTS products, what they are and how to look for them, here are a few other considerations you can take when selecting the ultimate baby onesie, sleepsuits, washcloths or any of our other organic baby and toddler products.
Quality Over Quantity
Investing in GOTS-certified baby clothes may seem like a splurge upfront but remember that these pieces are built to last. Plus, you can rest easy knowing that your little one is wearing garments that are safe, sustainable and oh-so-soft!
Remember to always check the labelling for the best washing guidance for each of our products.
Mix and Match
Get creative with your baby's wardrobe by mixing and matching GOTS-certified pieces in different colours and styles. Not only does this allow for endless outfit combinations, but it also reduces the need for excessive shopping and helps minimise waste.
Spread the Word
Share your newfound knowledge about GOTS certification with other parents! By raising awareness and supporting eco-friendly and ethical brands, we can collectively make a positive impact on the future of fashion and the planet.
And there you have it – your crash course in Global Organic Textile Standards. Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently dress your little ones in clothes that are not only cute and cosy but also kind to the planet and its people. So, here's to happy babies, happy parents and a happier, healthier world for us all!