GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)

Definition

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) — The leading worldwide standard for organic fibers, covering ecological and social criteria.

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the most comprehensive certification for organic textiles. To carry the GOTS label, a product must contain at least 70% certified organic natural fibers, processed without toxic chemicals, heavy metals, formaldehyde, or genetically engineered inputs.

GOTS also requires social criteria across the entire supply chain: living wages, no forced or child labor, safe working conditions and the right to organize. Certification is granted by independent third parties and re-audited annually.

Look for it on clothing, bedding, towels, and baby textiles — anywhere fabric touches skin.

Related terms

Vegan
Contains no animal-derived ingredients and no animal byproducts.
Cruelty-Free
Neither the finished product nor its ingredients were tested on animals.
B Corp
A for-profit company independently verified to meet high social and environmental standards.
USDA Organic
U.S. federal certification for food and farming free from synthetic pesticides, GMOs, and irradiation.

Using GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) without overreading the claim

The leading worldwide standard for organic fibers, covering ecological and social criteria.

This entry refers to a named scheme or initiative. Its published criteria and scope matter more than the general impression created by the badge.

Separate the question the term addresses from questions it does not answer. Material sourcing, labour conditions, chemical safety and disposal need different evidence. Catalogue labels are a starting point for checking that evidence, not a substitute for it.

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): verification guide

CheckActionLimitation
SchemeRead the named scheme's current criteriaStandards cover different environmental or social questions
RegisterLook up the licence or member in the scheme's directoryA logo image alone does not establish current status
ScopeMatch the company, site or exact product coveredCompany certification is not necessarily product certification

Before relying on GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)

  • SchemeRead the named scheme's current criteria
  • RegisterLook up the licence or member in the scheme's directory
  • ScopeMatch the company, site or exact product covered

Frequently asked

What does GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) mean?+

The leading worldwide standard for organic fibers, covering ecological and social criteria.

How can I check a GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) claim?+

Read the named scheme's current criteria. Look up the licence or member in the scheme's directory. Match the company, site or exact product covered.