GOTS Certification:
The Complete Guide
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the world's leading textile processing standard for organic fibers. Learn what makes it the most rigorous certification in sustainable fashion—covering everything from farm to finished product.
GOTS Key Statistics
What is GOTS Certification?
The world's most comprehensive organic textile processing standard
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) is the worldwide leading textile processing standard for organic fibers, including ecological and social criteria, backed by independent certification of the entire textile supply chain. Established in 2006, it's developed and managed by the International Working Group on Global Organic Textile Standard.
Unlike labels that only focus on the raw material or just one aspect of production, GOTS covers the entire supply chain—from harvesting the raw organic fiber, through environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing, to labeling. Only textiles that contain a minimum of 70% certified organic fibers can become GOTS certified.
What Makes GOTS Unique
GOTS is the only processing standard that simultaneously addresses:
- Organic fiber content: Minimum 70% certified organic fibers required
- Environmental processing: Strict restrictions on harmful chemicals
- Social responsibility: Fair labor conditions throughout the supply chain
- Full traceability: Every step documented from farm to finished product
- Independent verification: Annual on-site inspections by accredited certifiers
The standard is recognized by the International Social and Environmental Accreditation and Labelling (ISEAL) Alliance as a credible sustainability standard. For complete official information, visit global-standard.org/the-standard.
Two GOTS Label Grades
Understanding the difference between "organic" and "made with organic"
GOTS has two certification levels based on organic fiber content. Both require the same rigorous environmental and social criteria—the only difference is the minimum percentage of organic fibers.
"Organic"
GOTS Label Grade 1
Products labeled simply "organic" must contain a minimum of 95% certified organic fibers. The remaining 5% may be non-organic natural or synthetic fibers (under strict conditions).
- Highest organic content guarantee
- Design Delight Studio products use this grade
- Full environmental & social compliance
- Maximum transparency for consumers
"Made with Organic"
GOTS Label Grade 2
Products labeled "made with organic materials" contain a minimum of 70% certified organic fibers. The remaining 30% may be non-organic fibers (under strict conditions).
- Entry-level GOTS certification
- Allows for functional fiber blends
- Same environmental & social standards
- Clear labeling requirements
Shopping Tip
When shopping for organic textiles, look for the GOTS logo with the license number. "Organic" (Label Grade 1) indicates 95%+ organic content, while "Made with Organic" (Label Grade 2) indicates 70-94% organic content. Both grades meet the same stringent processing and social criteria. Learn more at global-standard.org.
Verify GOTS Certificates
Protect yourself from fake organic claims with official verification
GOTS License Number Checker
Enter a license number to check format, then verify on the official GOTS database
Look for license numbers on GOTS labels, hang tags, or certification documents
Official Verification Required
The ONLY authoritative source for GOTS verification:
GOTS Public DatabaseWhere to Find License Numbers
- GOTS label sewn into the garment (usually includes logo + license number)
- Hang tags attached to products at point of sale
- Brand's certification page on their official website
- Product pages in the description or specifications
- Scope certificates issued by certification bodies
GOTS Covers the Entire Supply Chain
From seed to finished product—every step is certified
What makes GOTS truly comprehensive is that it doesn't just certify the final product—it certifies every processing stage. Each facility in the chain must be independently certified. This is verified through the official GOTS database.
Organic Farming
Raw MaterialOrganic fibers (cotton, wool, silk, etc.) are grown or raised following organic farming standards. This means no synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or GMOs.
- No synthetic pesticides or fertilizers
- No genetically modified organisms (GMOs)
- Crop rotation and soil health practices
Ginning & Spinning
ProcessingRaw organic cotton is separated from seeds (ginning) and spun into yarn. GOTS requires proper segregation from conventional cotton.
- Strict segregation from non-organic materials
- No prohibited chemicals in processing
- Documentation of organic status maintained
Knitting/Weaving
Fabric CreationYarn is transformed into fabric. GOTS-certified facilities must maintain separation and use approved lubricants.
- Approved sizing agents and lubricants only
- Maintained separation from conventional textiles
- Waste management systems in place
Wet Processing
Dyeing & FinishingThis is where GOTS environmental criteria are most rigorous. All dyes and auxiliaries must meet strict requirements. Wastewater treatment is mandatory.
- All inputs must meet GOTS positive criteria
- Wastewater treatment required before discharge
- No azo dyes that release carcinogenic amines
- No toxic heavy metals
Manufacturing
Cutting & SewingCut-and-sew facilities must meet both environmental and social criteria. This includes fair wages, safe working conditions, and no child labor.
- Social criteria based on ILO conventions
- Safe and hygienic working conditions
- No discrimination in employment practices
- Living wages and regular employment
Finished Product
Labeling & DistributionOnly products with a complete certified chain can carry the GOTS logo. Final products must pass residue testing.
- Residue testing for prohibited substances
- Quality parameters must be met
- Proper GOTS labeling with license number
- Transaction certificates for B2B sales
Environmental Criteria
Strict chemical restrictions and environmental protections
GOTS maintains a comprehensive list of permitted and prohibited inputs for every stage of textile processing. All chemical inputs must be evaluated for toxicity, biodegradability, and environmental impact. The complete criteria are available at global-standard.org/the-standard/gots-key-features.
Prohibited Substances
- Toxic heavy metals: Cadmium, chromium VI, mercury, lead
- Formaldehyde: Banned in all forms
- Aromatic solvents: Benzene, toluene, xylene
- Chlorinated phenols: PCP, TeCP, TCP
- Azo dyes: Those releasing carcinogenic amines
- Phthalates: All phthalate plasticizers
Chemical Inputs
- All inputs evaluated for environmental impact
- Biodegradability required for processing aids
- Low aquatic toxicity threshold limits
- No chlorine bleaching (oxygen-based only)
- GOTS Positive List of approved substances
- Annual updates based on new research
Water & Wastewater
- Wastewater treatment before discharge mandatory
- pH, temperature, COD limits enforced
- No direct discharge to water bodies without treatment
- Water use monitoring and reduction encouraged
- Sludge disposal must follow regulations
- Regular testing of discharge quality
Additional Requirements
- No GMO fibers permitted
- Accessories (buttons, zippers) must meet limits
- Packaging restrictions (no PVC)
- Energy use monitoring encouraged
- Environmental policy required at certified sites
- Residue limits tested on final products
Can You Spot Real Organic?
Test your knowledge of organic textile claims
Is It Really Organic?
5 questions to sharpen your organic detection skills
Questions Correct
Red Flags for Fake Claims
- No license number or certificate
- "Organic feel" or "natural style" language
- "Organic-inspired" or "equivalent"
- Logo without verification information
- Claims that can't be verified in GOTS database
- Self-declared organic without certification
Signs of Legitimate GOTS
- GOTS logo with license number displayed
- Verifiable in official GOTS database
- Clear "organic" or "made with organic" labeling
- Certification body name on scope certificate
- Transaction certificates for B2B transactions
- Current certification (renewed annually)
Design Delight Studio is GOTS Certified
All of our cotton products carry GOTS certification (Label Grade 1 - 95%+ organic). You can verify our certification on the official GOTS database or view our Organic Promise page for full certification details.
GOTS vs Other Certifications
Understanding how GOTS compares to other textile standards
| Certification | Primary Focus | Organic Required? | Social Criteria? | Full Supply Chain? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GOTS | Organic processing + environment + social | Yes (min 70%) | Yes (mandatory) | Yes (farm to product) |
| OCS | Organic content tracking | Yes (min 5%) | No | Yes (chain of custody) |
| OEKO-TEX 100 | Chemical safety for wearers | No | No | No (product testing only) |
| GRS | Recycled content | No (recycled focus) | Yes | Yes (chain of custody) |
| Fair Trade | Fair wages & conditions | No (optional) | Yes (core focus) | Partial |
| USDA Organic | Organic farming | Yes (raw material) | No | No (farming only) |
Why GOTS Is Comprehensive
GOTS is unique because it combines three major dimensions in one standard:
- Organic content — Requires minimum 70% certified organic fibers
- Environmental processing — Strict chemical restrictions at every step
- Social responsibility — Fair labor conditions throughout supply chain
Other certifications may excel in one area but don't cover all three. That's why many brands (including Design Delight Studio) hold multiple certifications to address different aspects of sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about GOTS certification answered
Official Resources
Verified links to official GOTS information and our pages
Shop Our GOTS Certified Products
Every cotton product at Design Delight Studio is GOTS certified. That means 95%+ organic content, no harmful chemicals, and fair labor conditions throughout our supply chain. Plus, we hold additional certifications for complete peace of mind:
Social Criteria
Fair labor conditions based on ILO conventions
GOTS social criteria are based on the key norms of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. Every facility in the GOTS-certified supply chain must comply with these social criteria—it's not optional.
No Child Labor
Minimum working age of 15 years. Young workers under 18 cannot work in hazardous conditions.
No Forced Labor
All employment is voluntary. No forced, bonded, or prison labor. Workers cannot be required to lodge deposits.
Safe Working Conditions
Safe and hygienic workplace with access to clean facilities, potable water, and fire safety measures.
Fair Wages
Wages must meet at least legal minimum or industry standard, whichever is higher. Living wage is the target.
Working Hours
Regular working hours not exceeding 48 per week. Overtime is voluntary and limited.
Freedom of Association
Workers have the right to join trade unions and bargain collectively.
📋 Social Compliance Verification
Social criteria compliance is verified through annual on-site inspections by accredited certification bodies. These inspections include worker interviews, document reviews, and facility assessments. For full details, see the GOTS Social Criteria documentation.