Understanding the relevance of OEKO-TEX, European Flax, and GOTS certificates:
In the world of textiles, a growing emphasis on health safety, organic materials, and environmental sustainability is transforming the industry. Three key certifications - OEKO-TEX Standard 100, European Flax, and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) - are leading the charge.
These certifications provide a comprehensive assurance that textiles are manufactured safely for human health, from organic raw materials, and through environmentally sustainable and socially responsible practices.
The OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Class 1 certification guarantees no harmful chemicals remain in the fabric, making products safe for sensitive skin and infants. This stringent protocol tests for not only legally banned and regulated substances but also harmful chemicals for which no explicit legal regulation exists. These chemicals have been linked to cancer, infertility, and brain and fetal damage.
The European Flax certification, also known as Master of Flax, guarantees that flax fibers are grown in Belgium and France using sustainable practices. This includes GMO-free farming, no artificial irrigation, and complete traceability, emphasizing resource conservation and traceability.
GOTS, on the other hand, certifies that textiles are produced from organically grown fibers and processed following strict chemical restrictions and social criteria. GOTS sets stringent environmental and social criteria throughout the entire organic textiles supply chain. Under GOTS, harsh or inhumane treatment is prohibited, and social criteria include the promotion of employment, respect for freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining, safe and hygienic working conditions, prohibition of child labor, provision of living wages, regulation of working hours, prohibition of discrimination, and provision of regular employment.
Environmental criteria under GOTS include the prohibition of toxic heavy metals, formaldehyde, aromatic solvents, functional nano particles, GMOs, and their enzymes. Companies carrying the GOTS certificate agree to provide comprehensive data on their energy and water usage and are subject to regular inspections.
These certifications ensure that the duvet covers, for instance, are free of harmful chemicals such as silicone waxes, petroleum, heavy metals, flame retardants, ammonia, and formaldehyde. Bleaches under GOTS must be based on oxygen (no chlorine bleaching). Discharge printing methods using aromatic solvents and plastisol printing methods using phthalates and PVC are prohibited under GOTS.
In summary, these combined certifications provide a comprehensive assurance that textiles are manufactured safely for human health, from organic raw materials, and through environmentally sustainable and socially responsible practices. To ensure safety, choose European linen duvets certified under OEKO-TEX Standard 100, European Flax, and GOTS.
By prioritizing health safety, organic materials, and environmental sustainability, these certifications - OEKO-TEX Standard 100, European Flax, and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) - are revolutionizing the lifestyle, fashion-and-beauty, and home-and-garden sectors. These certifications guarantee the use of safe, organic materials, sustainable production methods, and socially responsible practices, promising a healthier environment and safer products for all.