What is GOTS-certified organic cotton – and why is it worth it?

Many sustainable garments carry the abbreviation GOTS. But what does it actually mean, and why is it more than just a marketing label, especially on baby clothing? Here are the key points, clearly explained.

What GOTS stands for

GOTS stands for Global Organic Textile Standard. It is one of the world's leading standards for textiles made from organically produced natural fibres. What makes it special: GOTS covers the entire supply chain – from growing the cotton through processing to the finished garment. So it is not just about the fibre itself, but about the whole journey.

What the certification means in concrete terms

• Organic farming: the cotton comes from certified organic cultivation, without chemical-synthetic pesticides and without genetic engineering.
• Strict chemical rules: harmful substances such as certain dyes and heavy metals are prohibited. This is why GOTS is so relevant for baby skin.
• Social criteria: fair working conditions along the production chain are part of the standard.
• Environmental requirements: waste water must be treated, and water and energy consumption are taken into account.

Why this matters for your baby

Baby skin is thinner and more sensitive than adult skin and absorbs substances more easily. Clothing is in direct skin contact for hours. The fact that GOTS-certified textiles are free from problematic chemicals is therefore a real advantage – especially for bodysuits and everything worn directly on the skin. Added to that is the good feeling that the clothing was produced in an environmentally and socially responsible way. And when it comes to warmth, merino wool complements organic cotton perfectly – more in our comparison Merino wool or cotton.

GOTS at our brands

Many labels in our range work consistently with GOTS-certified fabrics – for example Organic Zoo with its calm, timeless children's fashion or Liewood with Scandinavian design for everyday life. Smaller labels like Claude & Co have also relied on certified organic cotton from the very beginning.

Frequently asked questions

Is GOTS the same as “organic”?

Not quite. “Organic” often refers only to how the fibre is grown. GOTS goes further and additionally checks processing, chemicals, environmental requirements and social criteria – across the whole supply chain.

How do I recognise genuine GOTS goods?

By the printed or sewn-in GOTS logo with the manufacturer's licence number. Only certified companies may carry the label; the number can be checked in the official GOTS database.

Is GOTS-certified clothing more expensive?

Often somewhat, yes – controlled cultivation and fair production have their price. In return you get durable quality that can outlast several children and holds its value.

Many of our brands use GOTS-certified organic cotton, including romi. the label, Organic Zoo and Claude & Co. So you know that what your baby wears has been chosen with care.