So, what is GOTS?
GOTS is a textile production certification that limits the use of toxic bleaches, dyes and other chemical inputs during the production process of textiles. It is internationally recognised as the toughest organic textile standard because it goes far beyond verifying the organic farming process to include every step of manufacturing. To obtain the GOTS 'organic' label, a product must:
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Contain at least 95% organic fibre
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Not be treated with bleach, formaldehyde or any other toxic substances
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Be coloured with nontoxic dyes
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Be produced in a mill that enforces strict social and environmental standards, treating their employees and the earth with deep respect.
The main benefits of organic materials, however, is that the crops aren’t treated with pesticides, insecticides, herbicides and Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO's). These toxins are harmful to both our planet and also us! If you wouldn't eat it, why would you wear it on your body?
A GOTS certification means that products meet the very highest industry standards.
I do also want to say (as I have done in a previous post) that cotton farming has come a long way. In general, farming has come a long way despite the bucket loads of negative media.
Why should you believe that I have any knowledge on farming? My family until very recently were second generation rice farmers. I grew up around farming. Around common practices such as paddock rotation that allow the soil to recover, recycling systems for water run off collection and I recently spoke to farmer who told me about the use of drones in farming, which allows farmers to isolate treating a single plant - such as one that needs fertiliser etc. Despite the negative media about cotton and natural materials, the farming practices have evolved so much! Believe me when I say all farmers want to continually grow and develop these technologies to be as sustainable as possible.
We have created a Organic Cotton Basics range that caters to the every day wear; for both baby and child. It also features a super special Coco Bunny range to be worn all year around.
GOTS is a certification that is super costly for a supplier (or factory) to obtain. As we continually work with small, family run businesses (our lovely team of manufacturers, most of which we've worked with for 9 years!) this certification has taken quite some time to obtain. As the demand for organic cotton has grown, and with brands both larger and smaller than us beginning to offer this product, it has allowed our supplier to obtain this certification and access to organic fibres!
We are super excited to add our Organic Cotton Basics to our already ethical and sustainable selection!
All our love,
Miann & Co x