What is GOTS certification?
Written by:
Christi Farrell, RA, Leed GA
Updated:
February 26, 2023
Image source:
Studio Marlowe
If you’re in the market for furniture, then you’ve likely heard of GOTS certification.
This Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is a textile processing standard that ensures the organic status of textiles from harvesting of the raw materials, through environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing right up until labeling.
In this article, we will go over what GOTS certification is, why it’s important, and how to make sure you’re buying certified furniture.
GOTS certification is an internationally recognized standard for organic fibers such as cotton, linen, hemp, wool and more.
It sets out criteria for production processes such as dyeing and finishing processes, ensuring that all chemicals used are safe for humans and the environment.
It also covers social criteria including fair wages and working conditions for garment workers. In order to be certified with GOTS certification, companies must satisfy all requirements from start to finish in their production process.
When you purchase products with an international standard like GOTS certification, you can be sure that they meet certain environmental and social standards throughout the entire production process.
Not only does this provide assurance that your furniture was produced responsibly and sustainably but it also means that it has been manufactured using fewer chemicals which are less damaging to both people and the environment.
Additionally, by buying furniture with GOTS certification you are supporting companies who care about ethical practices within their production process.
If you want to ensure that your furniture is certified with GOTS certification then look for either the official seal or label on any product or packaging before purchasing it.
The official seal should state ‘Global Organic Textile Standard’ along with a unique number assigned to each manufacturer who has achieved certification.
If there isn't a seal or label present then ask the seller directly whether their furniture meets GOTS standards before making any purchases.
It's important to remember that when purchasing furniture with GOTS certification you are not just investing in quality products but also contributing towards reducing chemical use within the manufacturing industry which helps protect both people and our planet in the long run.
So if you're looking at buying some new pieces of furniture then make sure they have met these stringent standards by looking out for either a seal or label stating 'Global Organic Textile Standard' before making any purchases!
Thank you for reading this ultimate guide to GOTS certification!
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Contributor
Christi is a licensed architect and interior designer specializing in sustainability. She enjoys teaching design and bringing transparency to the impact that furniture has on our planet.
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