As consumers, it’s easy to get caught up in buzzwords when we’re shopping—words like “organic,” “eco-friendly,” “sustainable.” We’ve all seen them, and maybe even felt better about our purchases because of them. But here’s the thing: not all labels are created equal. If you’re serious about making ethical, environmentally conscious purchases, it’s important to dig a little deeper. That’s where GOTS certification comes in, and today I want to break down why it should matter to you.
What is GOTS Certification?
GOTS stands for the Global Organic Textile Standard, and it’s one of the most trusted certifications in the textile industry. If you’ve never heard of it before, don’t worry—I hadn’t either until I started diving deeper into sustainable living. GOTS certification ensures that the entire process of making a product—from growing the cotton to stitching the seams—is done in a way that’s both environmentally friendly and socially responsible.
To put it simply, GOTS certification is a gold standard for organic textiles. But why should you care? Let me tell you.
Why It Matters: Protecting the Planet
We all know that fast fashion and mass production are killing the planet. It’s not news. But what a lot of people don’t realize is just how much of that damage comes from the textile industry. According to some estimates, the fashion industry accounts for 10% of global carbon emissions. That’s more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined!
One of the ways we can combat this is by choosing products that are made with organic materials. But here's the catch: just because something says it’s “organic” doesn’t mean it’s made in a truly sustainable way. This is where GOTS certification steps in. For a product to be GOTS certified, it has to meet strict environmental criteria throughout the entire production process.
This means no harmful chemicals, like pesticides or toxic dyes, are used. And any water waste generated during production has to be treated before it’s released back into the environment. So when you buy a GOTS-certified product, you’re making sure that you’re not contributing to the pollution of our rivers, oceans, and air.
Ensuring Workers are Treated Fairly
I don’t know about you, but I’ve definitely had moments where I’ve thought, “This $5 t-shirt is cute, but how on earth is it that cheap?” And the answer is usually not a great one. It often means that someone, somewhere along the production line, is getting exploited—whether it’s poor wages, unsafe working conditions, or even child labor.
One of the most important parts of GOTS certification is its social criteria. In addition to protecting the environment, GOTS certification ensures that the people making these products are treated fairly. This means no child labor, no forced labor, safe working conditions, and fair wages.
When I think about the choices I make as a consumer, it’s not just about buying a product. It’s about the entire story behind that product. Who made it? Were they paid fairly? Were they safe at work? GOTS certification guarantees that you’re supporting an ethical supply chain, and that’s something I think we should all care about.
What to Look For: The GOTS Label
Now that we know why GOTS certification is so important, let’s talk about how you can ensure the products you’re buying meet these standards. The first step is simple: look for the GOTS label. It should be prominently displayed on the product or its packaging.
But don’t just stop there! There are two different levels of GOTS certification:
- "Organic" Label (95% or more organic fibers): Products with this label must contain at least 95% certified organic fibers.
- "Made with organic materials" (70% or more organic fibers): Products with this label must contain at least 70% certified organic fibers. The remaining 30% can’t include any potentially harmful substances like toxic dyes or bleaches.
It’s a simple step, but one that ensures you’re buying a product that truly aligns with your values.
Why Cheap Isn’t Always Better
I get it, sometimes you just need a budget-friendly option. But it’s worth remembering that fast fashion often comes with hidden costs—ones we don’t see when we swipe our credit card. Cheap clothing is often made with synthetic materials like polyester, which are derived from fossil fuels and take hundreds of years to break down in landfills. Not to mention, the chemicals used in their production can be harmful to the environment and the workers involved.
On the flip side, GOTS-certified products may be a bit more expensive, but they’re an investment in a better future—both for you and for the planet. Plus, organic cotton and other natural fibers tend to last longer and feel way better on your skin than cheap synthetic fabrics.
The Power of Voting with Your Wallet
Every time we buy something, we’re casting a vote for the kind of world we want to live in. I know that sounds a little dramatic, but it’s true! When you choose to buy GOTS-certified products, you’re supporting brands and companies that care about sustainability and fair labor practices. You’re also sending a message to other brands that this is what consumers want. And that’s powerful.
Imagine if more of us started paying attention to certifications like GOTS, and demanded better from the brands we support. We’d see a shift in the industry—a move away from fast fashion and mass production, and towards a future that’s more sustainable, ethical, and, ultimately, better for all of us.
Making the Change
I know that making the switch to sustainable shopping isn’t always easy. It takes time to research, and sometimes it feels overwhelming to know what to look for. But starting small is okay! Even just swapping a few items for GOTS-certified alternatives can make a big difference.
So the next time you’re shopping for a new pair of jeans or a cozy sweater, take a second to check for that GOTS label. It’s a small step, but it’s one that has a big impact. And trust me, you’ll feel good knowing that the choices you’re making are better for the planet, the people, and yourself.
After all, we can’t do everything perfectly—but we can all do something. And choosing GOTS-certified products is a great place to start.