You've probably read it before: Cosy Roots is GOTS certified! We're proud of this seal, because with it, we send a clear signal to anyone interested in our products. We meet all the criteria required to be certified for the Global Organic Textile Standard seal. But let's be honest, do you actually know what those criteria are? And what does it actually mean when a company is GOTS certified? In the following article, you'll learn what GOTS actually is and why we're so proud that our shop meets all the criteria required to obtain the GOTS seal.
Global Organic Textile Standard: We are GOTS certified
Textiles are what started it all at Cosy Roots. We wanted to create baby shoes that would stay on their feet, be beautiful and timeless, and above all, free from sheep's wool that would harm delicate baby skin. Our focus is on sustainability. So, it was the only logical step for us to have our company officially certified by GOTS, the Global Organic Textile Standard. The requirements associated with this seal also represent our own. By purchasing our products, our customers should be assured that they and their children are not only receiving the highest standard of quality, but that humanity is also our priority. Wondering what the GOTS criteria actually are? We'll tell you now.
The Standard
Before we take a closer look at the GOTS criteria, you should first understand what GOTS actually is. Unlike labels like Oeko-Tex, the GOTS standard also takes the production and supply chain into account. This way, you can be sure that GOTS-certified companies not only use organic materials, but also focus on sustainability throughout the entire product manufacturing process. The seal is characterized by four distinctive key criteria that must be met to receive GOTS certification.
- The certified textiles are made from organic fibers. This means they are natural fibers grown according to the principles of organic farming, meaning their production does not involve the use of synthetic pesticides, insecticides, herbicides, or genetic engineering. Organic farming thus makes an important contribution: It preserves the health of ecosystems, soils, and people.
- Textile production requires compliance with ecological and social standards. This means that a GOTS assessment thoroughly examines every single production step—from the chemicals used to the ethical treatment of workers.
- All processing stages are included. In addition to processing, manufacturing, packaging, and labeling, the GOTS certification system also covers the trade and distribution of all textiles made from at least 70 percent certified organic fibers.
- Certification is carried out by independent certification companies.
The guidelines
Anyone seeking GOTS certification must adhere to the guidelines and disclose their production chain. This doesn't begin with the purchase of fabrics; the cultivation of organic cotton is rigorously monitored. The focus is on organically produced natural fibers, but also on ensuring that farmers are paid fairly and that certain social criteria are met. Companies unable to demonstrate compliance with the ethical guidelines will not receive the seal. Every small step that organic cotton undergoes on its journey before it ultimately becomes organic textiles is subject to the strict GOTS guidelines. Whether dyeing, spinning, weaving, or sewing – every link in the textile industry's long chain is rigorously monitored, and compliance is ensured through annual inspections.
The GOTS seal - an investment that pays off
The GOTS seal stands for quality, sustainability, and ethical responsibility. However, small startups in particular need to carefully consider whether they have enough start-up capital to certify their products with this important certification. Certification costs companies between €1,300 and €3,000 annually, depending on the size, type of products, and the diversity of the product range. In addition, there are €150 annual license fees. These entitle certified companies to use the GOTS logo on their products and to advertise with it.
If you're unsure whether a company is truly GOTS-certified or think they're not complying with the standard, you can easily check the public database. All companies bearing the GOTS seal are listed there. This makes it quick and easy to identify any rogue companies, as the seal organizations stand for absolute transparency.
For us at Cosy Roots, GOTS isn't just a label. It's a lived ideology. As a manufacturer of baby fashion, we want only the best organically produced natural fibers for children's delicate skin. Compliance with all social criteria is a given for us, and we've been working with our studio in Turkey for many years. The high quality of the organic cotton we use is what sets us apart. Fashion that is timeless and will accompany multiple generations of parents and children.
