What Do Organic Cotton Certifications Really Mean? A Parent’s Guide
When shopping for baby clothes, you’ve probably seen terms like GOTS-certified or OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 on labels — but what do they actually mean?
At Little Gusto, we believe that transparency is essential, especially when it comes to what touches your baby’s skin. Here’s a simple breakdown of the most trusted organic cotton certifications, and why they matter for you and your little one.
🌱 1. GOTS – Global Organic Textile Standard
The GOTS certification is one of the highest standards in the organic textile world.
It ensures that:
• Cotton is grown without harmful chemicals or pesticides
• At least 95% of the fiber is certified organic
• Production processes meet strict environmental and social criteria (including fair labor)
Why it matters for your baby:
GOTS guarantees that every step — from farming to finishing follows clean, safe, and ethical practices.
Browse our Certificates for safe, sustainable style.
🌿 2. OEKO-TEX® Standard 100
Unlike GOTS, OEKO-TEX doesn’t focus on whether cotton is organic instead, it ensures that the final fabric contains no harmful substances.
Every component is tested, including:
• Threads
• Dyes
• Buttons & trims
Why it matters for your baby:
Even if a fabric isn’t organic, OEKO-TEX guarantees it’s non-toxic and safe for sensitive skin perfect for newborns and toddlers.
🌿 3. BCI – Better Cotton Initiative
The Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) promotes better standards in cotton farming across the globe. While it’s not fully organic, it supports:
• Reduced water usage
• Improved working conditions
• Safer chemical use compared to conventional methods
Why it matters for your baby:
BCI cotton is a step in the right direction — more sustainable than traditional cotton, and better for the planet your child will grow up in.
Why Certifications Matter !
Not all baby clothes labeled “natural” or “eco” meet real standards. Choosing certified organic cotton ensures you’re investing in:
• Safer fabrics for delicate skin
• Ethical manufacturing
• A cleaner future for your family and the Earth
At Little Gusto Australia, we proudly use GOTS-certified organic cotton in all our collections, because your baby deserves nothing less.
Ready to make the switch? Shop Our Organic Cotton Collection
