While most parents are not chemists, checking for certifications that go above and beyond the standard safety requirements is something we can all be educated in.
🗸 GOTS - Global Organic Textile Standard
The highest level of organic certification in the world. Meaning every step of the manufacturing process from growing the cotton to weaving the fabric meets the most stringent standards, free from chemicals, pesticides and herbicides. Fair labor, spinning, milling, sewing and packaging.
Local soil and water is affected negatively as well as the farmers and local communities through the conventional cotton growth process because of their use of GMO seeds and many other toxic chemicals. Organic cotton uses 88% less water and 62% less energy than conventional cotton which drastically reduces it’s impact on the environment as well.
Be sure to look for the green logo!
✗ GOTS-certified organic cotton means the cotton is certified organic, but the manufacturing process is still filled with toxins.
🗸 GreenGuard certification -
Two certifications that help to keep overall Volatile Organic Compounds levels below the limit that
adversely affect the health of the average person.
GreenGuard allows 500 𝝁g/m3 total VOCs.
GreenGuard GOLD allows 220 𝝁g/m3 total VOCs.
VOCs are chemical emissions that could impact your baby’s air quality. Most important to look for when mattress shopping.
🗸 GOLS - Global Organic Latex Standard
Similar to GOTS but refers to latex.
When you buy a GOLS-certified product,
you can be sure you’re getting a 100%
organic, ethically manufactured product.
🗸 MADE SAFE -
Screens ingredients for known;
Behavioral toxins
Carcinogens
Developmental toxins
Endocrine disruptors
Fire retardants
Heavy metals
Neurotoxins
High risk pesticides
Reproductive toxins
Toxic solvents
Harmful VOCs
Second Tier Clothing Certification:
🗸 Oeko-Tex certified Oeko-Tex Standard 100 or EcoInstitute certification.
These certifications ensure that the fabric is free of 100 different toxic chemicals.
Oeko-Tex screens more than most but still allows for low levels of formaldehyde, synthetic fibers,and a few flame retardants.