OEKO-TEX, GOTS & GRS Explained
Three certifications come up constantly in knitwear sourcing. They sound similar but certify very different things. Here's what each one actually means.
These are the textile certifications buyers ask about most. Understanding the difference helps you specify the right one — and read a supplier's certificate correctly.
OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100
Tests that a textile is free from harmful substances above defined limits. It's about product safety for the wearer — it does not certify organic or recycled content. The most common baseline certification a brand asks for.
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)
Certifies organic fibre content plus environmental and social criteria across the supply chain. GOTS is a chain-of-custody standard: it's verified at certified facilities along the chain, so claims rest on certified inputs and processors.
GRS (Global Recycled Standard)
Verifies recycled content (e.g. recycled polyester or wool) and responsible production, also via chain of custody. Use it when your story is recycled materials.
In one line: OEKO-TEX = tested safe. GOTS = certified organic, full chain. GRS = certified recycled, full chain. They answer different questions — pick the one that matches your claim.
How this works in practice
We source certified yarns from accredited suppliers — OEKO-TEX, GOTS or GRS as your project specifies — and pass the supplier's certificates and traceability through to you. Note that GOTS and GRS are chain-of-custody schemes verified at facility level; we work with certified inputs and document them rather than issuing our own certificates. For the full map of certifications, see the certifications guide, or read about sustainable knitwear.
Ready to make it?
Send a tech pack, a reference garment or a brief. We respond within one business day with a capacity check, indicative pricing and a sample timeline — direct with the founder.