Sustainability claims are only as strong as the documentation behind them. Buyers often group certifications together, but each one covers a different part of the chain.
What Each Certification Covers
| Certification | Scope | Typical claim |
|---|---|---|
| GRS | Recycled content, chain of custody, social and environmental criteria | Contains verified recycled fibre |
| GOTS | Organic fibre from farm to finished textile, chemical restrictions | Certified organic textile |
| OEKO-TEX Standard 100 | Tested for harmful substances in the finished article | Safe for skin contact |
| BSCI / social audits | Working conditions and labour practices | Audited workplace |
Certification Is Not the Same as Composition
A GRS certificate proves that recycled material was used and traced. It does not by itself tell you the fibre percentage in a specific roll. For that you need the transaction certificate relating to your order.
Documents to Request
- Scope certificate of the manufacturer
- Transaction certificate covering your delivery
- Test reports for restricted substances
- Traceability statement for the fibre source
Cost and Lead Time
Certified fibres usually carry a price premium and can add lead time, particularly for organic cotton and recycled polyester. Planning certification into the development calendar early is cheaper than retrofitting it later.
We can supply GRS and OEKO-TEX certified options and advise which certifications are realistic for your target market and budget.
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