Quality is always a fundamental priority for us. We consciously choose a certain level of quality. However, when it comes to some materials, non-experts may find it difficult to judge. This is where certifications come in, setting specific standards. Textiles are among the products where these standards are most widely recognised and help guide our choices. Whether it’s T-shirts, baseball caps, towels, or bags, textile certifications can be applied. Natural textiles, in particular, must meet specific standards. Here, we explain the two most common standards, which you will also find in our range: Oeko-Tex and GOTS.
Oeko-Tex: The Most Common Textile Certification
The Oeko-Tex certification is awarded by the International Association for Research and Testing in the Field of Textile and Leather Ecology. Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, the association consists of 18 independent testing and research institutes in Europe and Japan. To receive certification, retailers submit representative test samples of all materials used in manufacturing—including buttons, zippers, thread, and appliqués—all of which are tested in a laboratory. Additionally, an on-site inspection of the production facility is conducted.
Ensuring Oeko-Tex Certification Compliance
To ensure continued compliance with certification standards, Oeko-Tex conducts unannounced audits on 20% of certified facilities annually. Randomly selected labelled products purchased from retailers are also tested.
Oeko-Tex offers various product labels for textiles, with the most well-known being Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex. Like all Oeko-Tex certifications, this confirms that all stages of textile processing have been tested for health safety and that production facilities comply with social and environmental standards. The criteria and pollutant limits are regularly updated.
GOTS: Organic Natural Fibres
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is a globally recognised certification for textiles made from organically produced natural fibres, with at least 70% controlled organic content. Leather and fur products are not covered under this certification. Given the growing focus on sustainability and environmental protection, this textile certification is becoming increasingly important. Like Oeko-Tex, GOTS assesses the entire production chain, including social criteria, ensuring independent certification. From raw fibre sourcing to environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing and labelling of the final products, everything is examined to guarantee consumer product safety.
GOTS Products with Imprint
This certification also means that GOTS-approved items can only be customised in a certified printing facility if used as promotional products. They must not be repackaged or processed at any intermediate stage before reaching you with the certification intact. We strictly adhere to these supply chain requirements.
We are happy to advise you further on textiles and their use as promotional items. Feel free to contact us for more information.