GOTS vs Oeko-Tex: Textile Certification Differences

Textile certification serve as third-party assurances that fabrics and garments meet specific environmental, social, or health-based criteria. As global awareness of sustainable fashion and responsible production grows, these certifications have become critical tools for buyers, manufacturers, and retailers alike.

Two of the most widely recognized textile certifications in the textile industry are the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and OEKO-TEX® Standard 100. Though both promote safer and more responsible textile manufacturing, their focus, criteria, and scope differ significantly.

What is GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)

GOTS is the leading international standard for organic fibers, covering the entire textile supply chain, from the harvesting of raw materials to environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing, labeling, and distribution.

Key highlights of GOTS:

Organic fiber content requirement: Minimum of 70% certified organic fibers for “Made with Organic” label, and 95% for full organic claim.
Environmental criteria: Prohibits the use of toxic heavy metals, formaldehyde, aromatic solvents, GMOs, and other harmful substances.
Social compliance: Requires adherence to International Labour Organization (ILO) standards, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and prohibition of child labor.
Full supply chain certification: From fiber production to final garment labeling, all stages must be independently inspected and certified.
Water treatment and energy use: Facilities must have wastewater treatment plants and environmental management plans.

Primary focus: GOTS is fiber-specific, focused primarily on organic agriculture, environmental impact, and ethical labor practices.

What is OEKO-TEX® Standard 100

OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 is a human-ecological certification system that tests finished textile products and components for harmful substances.

Key highlights of OEKO-TEX® Standard 100:

Product safety: Tests for over 1,000 regulated and non-regulated substances that may be harmful to human health.
Applicable at any stage: Can be applied to yarns, fabrics, accessories, and finished garments.
Component testing: Zippers, buttons, threads, labels, and coatings are tested individually.
Class-based certification: Four product classes based on end use:
- Class I: Baby products
- Class II: Products with direct skin contact
- Class III: Products without direct skin contact
- Class IV: Decorative materials
Annual audits and re-testing: Products must be retested regularly to maintain certification.

Primary focus: OEKO-TEX targets product safety and consumer protection, regardless of the fiber’s origin or production process.

Differences Between GOTS and OEKO-TEX Textile Certification

1. Scope and Coverage

GOTS covers the entire textile processing chain, including raw material production, manufacturing, chemical use, and social responsibility.
OEKO-TEX focuses only on the chemical safety of the end product, regardless of how or where it was produced.

2. Fiber Requirements

GOTS mandates a minimum organic content in certified products.
OEKO-TEX does not require organic content. Synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon can be certified as long as they are free from harmful substances.

3. Chemical Standards

Both have strict chemical restrictions, but with different objectives:
- GOTS prohibits specific inputs throughout the processing stages.
- OEKO-TEX tests the final product for residues.

4. Social and Labor Standards

GOTS includes comprehensive social criteria, requiring fair labor practices and worker rights.
OEKO-TEX only includes social criteria under separate programs, such as STeP by OEKO-TEX®, which is not part of Standard 100.

5. Certification Process

GOTS: Requires full-chain certification, every operator and facility must be inspected.
OEKO-TEX: Tests product samples; certification is based on lab results and periodic audits.

6. Labeling and Transparency

GOTS labels include fiber composition and organic claims. Labels are traceable via public databases.
OEKO-TEX labels display a certification number that can be verified online but do not indicate fiber origin or organic content.

Selecting GOTS or OEKO-TEX Textile Certification

Consider the following factors when choosing a textile certification:

Product Category: Identify whether the core offering is based on organic textiles (e.g., cotton basics) or synthetic performance materials, which may influence eligibility and relevance.
Target Customer Profile: Determine whether your primary audience values supply chain transparency and organic sourcing, or prioritizes end-product safety and skin compatibility.
Supply Chain Readiness: Evaluate whether your current production partners and material suppliers can support full-scope certification under GOTS, including traceability and labor compliance.
Brand Positioning Strategy: Align certification with your positioning—ethical and sustainable luxury may demand GOTS, while technical or health-sensitive products may benefit more from OEKO-TEX certification.
Retailer and Distributor Expectations: Assess the compliance standards required by key retail partners, licensing agents, or geographic markets, many of whom specify minimum certification requirements.

Companies committed to leadership in sustainability, traceability, and consumer protection often choose to certify under both GOTS and OEKO-TEX to meet regulatory obligations and reinforce brand trust.

FAQ of GOTS and OEKO-TEX Textile Certification

1. Can a product be both GOTS and OEKO-TEX certified?

Yes. Many manufacturers obtain both GOTS and OEKO-TEX certifications to cover different aspects of sustainability and safety. GOTS ensures organic integrity and ethical production, while OEKO-TEX confirms that the final product is free from harmful substances. Dual certification strengthens a brand’s credibility.

2. Is OEKO-TEX a good textile certification?

Absolutely. OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is a globally respected certification for product safety. It is particularly effective for verifying that textiles are free from harmful substances, regardless of fiber type or sourcing.

3. Is GOTS certified worth it?

Yes. GOTS certification adds credibility to brands committed to organic textiles and ethical manufacturing. It enhances transparency, opens access to eco-conscious markets, and strengthens consumer trust, especially in Europe and North America.

4. Does GOTS certified mean non-toxic?

Not necessarily. While GOTS prohibits toxic chemicals during production, it does not test the final product for chemical residues. For certified non-toxic assurance, combining GOTS with OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is recommended.

5. Does OEKO-TEX mean the fabric is organic?

No. OEKO-TEX certification does not indicate organic status. It only confirms that the product has been tested for harmful chemicals and is safe for human use. Even fully synthetic materials can carry the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 label.

6. What types of products need GOTS certification?

GOTS certification is essential for products marketed as organic, especially in segments like babywear, home textiles, yoga apparel, and other garments where organic claims are central to consumer expectations. It’s also critical for companies selling in eco-conscious markets or through retailers that require verified organic sourcing.

7. What is better, GOTS or OEKO-TEX?

It depends on your priority. GOTS is better suited for ensuring organic content and ethical manufacturing across the entire supply chain. OEKO-TEX is stronger when your focus is chemical safety of the final product, especially for non-organic materials. Many brands choose to obtain both certifications for full coverage.