In a world where labels are multiplying, it can be difficult to navigate them. What criteria should you look for? How can you be sure that a product truly meets your expectations in terms of ethics, quality, and durability? At Mama Hangs, we have chosen GOTS certification for our baby carriers. Discover why this label stands out and how it meets the needs of discerning parents.
What is GOTS certification?
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is one of the most stringent certifications on the market. It ensures not only the organic production of natural fibers but also strict standards throughout the entire manufacturing process.
- Environmental aspect: GOTS imposes rigorous criteria to minimize ecological impact, such as banning many toxic chemicals and ensuring responsible management of natural resources (water, energy).
- Social aspect: GOTS includes standards inspired by the International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions. This means decent working conditions, a living wage, no forced or child labor, and respect for worker health and safety.
How does GOTS compare to other labels and certifications?
🌱 “Organic” without certification
Advantage: An "organic" claim suggests cleaner farming practices, but it is not a certification.
Limitation: Without a recognized certification like GOTS, there is no guarantee regarding dyeing practices, processing methods, or working conditions. Additionally, this claim can be misused.
➡️ To learn more about regulated practices and potential abuses, you can check the recommendations of the DGCCRF.
🧪 Oeko-Tex: A label focused on human health
Advantage: Oeko-Tex ensures that the final product does not contain harmful substances.
Limitation: It does not consider the earlier stages of production, such as raw material cultivation or the social and environmental practices used during manufacturing.
💧 Bluesign: A label focused on clean chemistry
Advantage: Bluesign focuses on reducing harmful chemicals from the beginning of the production chain. It also ensures responsible management of resources such as water and energy.
Limitation: Its approach mainly addresses the environmental impact of chemical processes and does not include strict requirements for social conditions.
🇪🇺 EU Ecolabel: A European environmental certification
Advantage: This label covers the entire production chain, emphasizing reduced environmental impact (such as water and energy savings). It is also a reliable reference for European consumers.
Limitation: It is less demanding than GOTS in terms of social and environmental criteria for natural fibers (for example, organic cotton is not mandatory).
🌾 USDA Organic: A U.S. label focused on raw materials
Advantage: This certification ensures that natural fibers (such as cotton) come from organic farming, without GMOs or chemical pesticides.
Limitation: USDA Organic only certifies raw materials, not subsequent stages such as processing or textile manufacturing.
👩🌾 Better Cotton Initiative (BCI): An educational approach to more responsible cotton
Advantage: BCI aims to improve agricultural practices in cotton farms worldwide, reducing water and chemical use while promoting fair compensation for farmers.
Limitation: It is not an organic certification. BCI cotton may be grown with pesticides or GMOs, and its processing stages are not certified.
Why did Mama Hangs choose GOTS for its baby carriers?
- A safe choice for babies and parents: Baby carriers are in direct contact with your child’s delicate skin and often their mouth and mucous membranes. Like skin, these are more vulnerable to chemicals. With GOTS certification, we guarantee products free from toxic residues.
- Production aligned with our values: By choosing GOTS, we commit to sustainable and ethical fashion that respects workers.
- Durable products: Our GOTS-certified baby carriers are made to last, accompanying you through every stage of parenthood.
How to make an informed choice?
To make an ethical and safe choice, prioritize labels that guarantee full transparency, like GOTS. Not only do you choose a healthy product, but you also support a responsible production chain.