Should I prioritize GOTS or OEKO-TEX certification when shopping for baby clothing?

By Bloom · · 3 min read

GOTS and OEKO-TEX serve different purposes, so your priority depends on what you value most. GOTS focuses on organic fiber sourcing and responsible production throughout the supply chain [1][2], while OEKO-TEX focuses on testing finished products for specific substances [3][4]. Bloom lists a product only when it has at least 1,000 Amazon ratings, its full ingredient or material list is published, it has no synthetic red flags, food and drinks are organic by nature, and fabrics carry a named organic certification; personal care, baby care, supplements and household products are held to a clean-formula standard instead of an organic one. Nobody pays to be listed.

This page explains labels and certifications. Not medical advice; ask your paediatrician.

Understanding GOTS Certification

The Global Organic Textile Standard, or GOTS, is a widely recognized international benchmark for organic textiles [1][2]. This certification verifies the entire supply chain, starting from the field where the fibers are grown all the way to the finished garment [1][5]. It ensures that the product is made from organic fibers and adheres to specific social and environmental criteria during production [1][4].

GOTS does not mean a total absence of all substances, but it does strictly control and limit the inputs used during manufacturing [1][5]. It prohibits the use of inputs labeled as "hazardous" like certain metals or solvents [1][5]. If you want to confirm a product is certified, you can verify the certificate through an independent body like Ecocert [1][5].

Understanding OEKO-TEX Certification

OEKO-TEX Standard 100 focuses on the substances present in the finished textile product [2][4]. It involves testing items at various processing levels to verify the presence of specific substances [3][4]. This certification is updated annually to stay current with new scientific findings and global regulations [3][6].

When a product is certified, it has been analyzed for over 1,000 different substances [3][6]. Products intended for babies belong to the testing class known as Class I [3][2]. This testing provides information that the finished item meets specific standards [3][4].

How to Choose Between Them

Deciding which to prioritize depends on your goals. If your focus is on the organic nature of the fibers and the environmental impact of the production process, GOTS is the standard to look for [2][4]. It provides a comprehensive view of how the item was made from start to finish [2].

If you are interested in the substances present in the finished item, OEKO-TEX provides testing data for that purpose [2][4]. Many brands choose to obtain both certifications to provide transparency on both the sourcing and the final product [2][4]. If you have questions about skin, consult a professional.

Comparing and Verifying Products

When comparing two items, look for the specific certification logo on the label or the product packaging [1][5]. A GOTS-certified product will allow the manufacturer to display a claim about the percentage of organic materials used [1][5]. Similarly, OEKO-TEX products will have a certificate issued by a testing institute that is valid for one year [3][6].

Always check if the certification is current. Both organizations provide ways to confirm that a certificate is legitimate and active [2]. By moving beyond vague marketing terms, you can use these certifications to identify products that meet your specific standards for your family.

Quick answers

Does OEKO-TEX mean the product is organic?

No, OEKO-TEX focuses on chemical safety and does not verify that a product is made from organic fibers [2].

Can a product have both certifications?

Yes, many brands pursue both GOTS and OEKO-TEX to provide assurance regarding both the organic production process and the chemical safety of the finished item [2][4].

On Bloom’s verified list

Organic cotton fitted crib sheet

Burt's Bees Baby

  • ✓ 19,113 Amazon ratings
  • ✓ GOTS
  • ✓ Ingredients: Organic Cotton

This fitted crib sheet is GOTS certified and made from organic cotton, with 19,113 Amazon ratings.

Every ingredient checkedSee it on Amazon

Organic cotton waffle weave dish towels

Amazon Basics

  • ✓ 1,532 Amazon ratings
  • ✓ GOTS, OEKO-TEX Standard 100
  • ✓ Materials: organic cotton

These dish towels hold both GOTS and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certifications and have 1,532 Amazon ratings.

Every material checkedSee it on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, Bloom earns from qualifying purchases. Facts above come from Bloom’s ledger; check the label on your pack.

How Bloom checks a product

Bloom lists a product only when it has at least 1,000 Amazon ratings, its full ingredient or material list is published, it has no synthetic red flags, food and drinks are organic by nature, and fabrics carry a named organic certification; personal care, baby care, supplements and household products are held to a clean-formula standard instead of an organic one. Nobody pays to be listed.

See every verified product

Sources

  1. Overview of organic textile certification and the GOTS label | Ecocert ecocert.com
  2. OEKO-TEX vs GOTS Which Certification Keeps You Safe? orbasics.com
  3. Behind the label: How Pampers ensures the safety of baby products through OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification oeko-tex.com
  4. Why OEKO-TEX and GOTS Matters For Your Baby | Crane Baby crane-baby.com
  5. Overview of organic textile certification and the GOTS label | Ecocert ecocert.com
  6. Behind the label: How Pampers ensures the safety of baby products through OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certification oeko-tex.com

Bloom explains labels, ingredients and certifications. Not medical advice; ask your paediatrician.