The Distinction: GOTS Certified Organic vs. Oeko-Tex Standard 100

The Distinction: GOTS Certified Organic vs. Oeko-Tex Standard 100

In today’s world of sustainable textiles, certifications are key to making informed choices. But not all certifications mean the same thing. Two of the most recognized labels are GOTS Certified Organic and Oeko-Tex Standard 100. While both aim to improve textile safety and quality, their focus and standards are very different.

At All Cotton and Linen, we prioritize GOTS certification because it represents the highest level of ecological and social responsibility. Let’s explore how GOTS and Oeko-Tex differ, and why choosing the right certification matters for your home and the planet.

What is GOTS Certified Organic?

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) is the world’s leading certification for organic textiles. It covers the entire supply chain from farming to processing and final product.

  • Focus: Sustainability, ecology, and social responsibility.

  • Farming: Begins with organic cotton farming, avoiding synthetic pesticides, GMOs, and toxic fertilizers.

  • Chemicals: Strictly bans hazardous substances like flame retardants, heavy metals, endocrine disruptors, and PFCs.

  • Production: Requires wastewater treatment, eco-friendly dyes, and environmental management plans.

  • Social Responsibility: Enforces fair labor practices in line with International Labour Organization (ILO) standards..

By choosing GOTS-certified cotton and linen products, you ensure that your textiles are safe for your family and better for the planet.

What is Oeko-Tex Standard 100?

Oeko-Tex Standard 100 is another widely recognized certification, but it has a narrower focus.

  • Focus: End-product safety (checking for harmful chemicals in finished textiles).

  • Testing: Screens for substances harmful to human health, such as formaldehyde or azo dyes.

  • Limitations: Does not cover farming methods, social responsibility, or supply chain transparency.

  • Organic Guarantee: Oeko-Tex does not guarantee that fibers are organically grown.

While Oeko-Tex is a step up from conventional textiles, it lacks the full ecological and ethical oversight provided by GOTS.

Key Differences Between GOTS and Oeko-Tex

Feature

GOTS Certified Organic

Oeko-Tex Standard 100

Scope

Full supply chain (farm → final product)

Final product testing only

Farming

Requires organic farming

No farming requirements

Chemicals

Bans hazardous chemicals

Tests finished product only

Social Responsibility

Enforces ILO labor standards

No social responsibility criteria

Environmental Impact

Requires eco-friendly practices, wastewater treatment

No environmental requirements

Transparency

Full traceability from farm to fabric

Limited to product testing


Why GOTS Matters for a Sustainable Future

With climate change and environmental concerns rising, choosing the right certification is more important than ever. GOTS ensures:

  • Cleaner water systems by regulating textile wastewater.

  • Lower carbon footprint with organic farming.

  • Safer working conditions for farmers and factory workers.

  • Healthier homes with toxin-free products.

At All Cotton and Linen, we choose GOTS certification because it aligns with our mission to provide textiles that are safe, sustainable, and socially responsible.

While both GOTS and Oeko-Tex play a role in safer textiles, GOTS Certified Organic is the gold standard for sustainability and social responsibility. It covers the entire journey of the textile, ensuring that what you bring into your home is truly eco-friendly and ethical.

FAQ

It’s the highest global standard for textiles, ensuring organic farming, chemical safety, and fair labor practices from seed to final product.

No. Oeko-Tex only tests finished products for harmful substances, while GOTS covers the entire supply chain with strict organic and social criteria.

They’re safer for your health, better for the environment, and guarantee ethical production practices.

Yes. GOTS requires organic farming, wastewater treatment, and bans toxic chemicals making it far more sustainable.

Our beddings, dinner napkins, kitchen towels, tablecloths, and placemats are all crafted from GOTS-certified organic cotton and linen.

Leave a comment

All comments are moderated before being published.

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.