Understanding the significance of OEKO-TEX, European Flax, and GOTS certifications: a look at environmentally-friendly textile standards.
In the world of textile production, consumer safety, environmental sustainability, and ethical responsibility are paramount. Three certifications stand out in ensuring these values: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Class 1, European Flax, and Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).
The OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Class 1 certification is a rigorous testing and certification system that guarantees textiles are free from harmful substances, making them safe for even the most sensitive skin, including babies. This certification places stringent requirements on textile products, testing for both regulated and harmful chemicals.
European Flax certification, often referred to as Masters of Flax or formerly European Flax Standard, ensures sustainable, GMO-free, and traceable flax fiber cultivation. The EUROPEAN FLAX® Charter guarantees local farming that respects the environment and commits to zero irrigation, zero GMO, and zero waste.
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the gold standard for sustainable processing of textiles made from organic fibers. GOTS covers the entire textile supply chain from organic fiber harvesting to environmentally and socially responsible manufacturing processes. It prohibits harmful chemicals, ensures organic farming methods, and mandates ethical labor conditions throughout the textile production process.
These certifications together assure a high level of consumer safety, environmental sustainability, and ethical responsibility in textile production. For instance, GOTS prohibits the use of Azo dyes that release carcinogenic amine compounds, while bleaches must be based on oxygen (no chlorine bleaching). Discharge printing methods using aromatic solvents and plastisol printing methods using phthalates and PVC are also prohibited under GOTS.
Moreover, the duvet may carry these certifications. A duvet cover may contain chemicals like silicone waxes, petroleum, heavy metals, flame retardants, ammonia, and formaldehyde, which have been linked to cancer, infertility, and brain and fetal damage. However, a duvet cover certified by OEKO-TEX Standard 100® Class guarantees that it is free of harmful chemicals. Similarly, a duvet may also carry the European Flax® certification, which guarantees traceability from flax seed to the finished duvet cover and is produced exclusively in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
In addition, GOTS sets stringent environmental and social criteria throughout the entire organic textile supply chain. Wet processing units must keep full records of the use of chemicals, energy, water consumption, and waste water treatment, including the disposal of sludge. The waste water from all wet processing units must be treated in a functional waste water treatment plant. Companies carrying the GOTS certificate agree to provide comprehensive data on their energy and water usage and are subject to regular inspections.
To ensure safety, choose European linen duvets. By opting for products certified with OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Class 1, European Flax, and GOTS, you are making a conscious choice to support sustainable and safe textile production.
- In the realm of duvets, choosing one certified by OEKO-TEX Standard 100® Class 1, European Flax, and GOTS ensures a safer and more sustainable lifestyle, promoting products free from harmful chemicals and supporting ethical farming practices.
- For those who prioritize fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden products that align with their values of consumer safety, environmental sustainability, and ethical responsibility, the certifications of OEKO-TEX Standard 100 Class 1, European Flax, and GOTS serve as an excellent benchmark for making informed decisions.
