GOTS vs. OEKO-TEX: Which Is Better?

At All Cotton and Linen, we choose GOTS certification because it is the only standard that covers the full journey of organic farming, chemical safety, fair labor, and environmental responsibility, all on a single label. Here is what each certification really means, and why it matters.

What Is GOTS Certified Organic?

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) is an international standard for organic textiles that sets the world’s highest requirements for any organic cotton product. The GOTS certification covers all stages of the production process – from cultivating raw materials to manufacturing the final textile product.

Agricultural production Organic farming: cultivation of cotton using prohibited pesticides, genetically modified organisms, and toxic fertilizers Organic farming focuses on maintaining healthy soil, saving water.

Chemicals Prohibited: flame retardants, heavy metals, endocrine disruptors, PFC, formaldehyde, chlorine bleach Global Organic Textile Standard prohibits the use of toxic chemicals during processing, manufacturing, and sewing.

Eco-friendly production: use of closed water loops at processing plants, dyeing, wastewater treatment, and other activities that have a negative impact on the environment.

Fair labor enforced - Aligned with ILO standards: fair wages, safe working conditions, no child labor verified at every stage, not just at the factory gate.

Full traceability - Third-party audits track the supply chain from seed to shelf. You know exactly where your textile has been.

Organic fiber content - The "GOTS Organic" label requires 95%+ certified organic fibers. The "Made with Organic" label requires at least 70%.

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

What Is OEKO-TEX Standard 100?

OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is a widely trusted safety certification that tests finished textile products for harmful chemical residues. It is an important baseline — but its scope is narrower than GOTS.

• Tests the finished product — Every component (fabric, thread, buttons, zippers, dyes) is screened for 100+ harmful substances, including formaldehyde, heavy metals, and azo dyes.

• Works for all fiber types — Applies to natural, synthetic, and blended textiles, cotton, polyester, bamboo, lyocell, and more.

• Consumer safety focus — Assures that the product you touch, wear, or sleep on is free of residues that could cause allergic reactions, hormone disruption, or breathing issues.

• No organic guarantee — OEKO-TEX does not require fibers to be organically grown. A conventionally farmed cotton product can still earn this certification.

• No supply chain oversight — Farming practices, factory conditions, labor rights, and wastewater management are not evaluated or required.

• No social criteria — Worker wages, child labor policies, and factory safety are not part of the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 framework.

While OEKO-TEX is a meaningful step up from conventional textiles, it lacks the full ecological and ethical oversight that GOTS provides.

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Key Differences Between GOTS and OEKO-TEX Standard 100

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.

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Who Should Choose GOTS?

Choose GOTS-certified textiles if you:

• Have babies or young children at home

• Have sensitive, allergy-prone, or eczema-prone skin

• Want fully organic bedding, napkins, and home textiles

• Care about fair wages and zero child labor in production

• Want the highest ecological and ethical guarantee available

Who Should Choose OEKO-TEX?

Choose OEKO-TEX if you:

• Need chemically safe textiles on a tighter budget

• Are you buying synthetic-blend garments or bedding (lyocell, bamboo, modal)

• Want a trusted safety baseline for school uniforms or sportswear

• Are you purchasing from brands that do not offer organic fiber products

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 strictly regulating textile wastewater

• A lower carbon footprint through organic farming practices

• Safer working conditions for farmers and factory workers worldwide

• Healthier homes with toxin-free products for your entire family

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.

Overview

Both the GOTS and OEKO-TEX certifications are recognized in the sustainable textile industry, but OEKO-TEX only ensures that the fabric is free from harmful substances. GOTS guarantees that the products were produced in a responsible way.

GOTS-certified products are made using responsible farming practices. They ensure the welfare of those involved in the production process, as well as the wellbeing of the environment, starting with the farmers and ending with the families of the textile manufacturers. When you buy GOTS-certified items, you can rest assured that your purchase does not support child labor, exploitation of workers, or environmental pollution.

All Cotton and Linen’s table linen products, including dinner napkins and tablecloths, are made from GOTS-certified cotton and linen. The company’s bedding and kitchen towels also meet the standards set by the Global Organic Textile Standard. Choosing GOTS-certified products means choosing safety and sustainability.