The aim of the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is to be a credible resource for consumers looking for textiles that are produced in an environmentally and socially responsible method. Not only are these fabrics free of harmful chemicals, the results of their production pose no threat to the environment or the communities in which they were produced. This universal standard assures that no harmful or toxic chemicals are used from harvest to manufacture, including the dyeing, washing, and finishing processes.

GOTS even examines the disposal of waste and wastewater treatment to ensure a minimal impact on the environment. Strict guidelines have to be met in working conditions as well; companies must provide a safe and hygienic environment, with livable wages, appropriate working hours, and absolutely no child labor. Labor discrimination and inhumane treatment is also prohibited. GOTS is used around the world and guarantees the organic products you bring into your home are healthy and safe, as well as provides a fair and just working environment for those who manufacture them.

As we become increasingly aware of the impact of our daily lives upon the environment, we begin to look for ways to reduce our "footprint." Textiles are of particular concern, as many of the chemicals commonly found in textiles can affect our health and the environment. The textile industry, recognizing their responsibility and impact from their production, is working to design products free from harmful substances. They are adopting recognized environmentally friendly working practices to produce safer products. The Oeko-Tex Standard 100, developed by a group of European textile institutes, is a global testing and accreditation program for the screening of harmful substances in consumer textiles. Manufacturers whose products meet the requirements set by the standard are licensed to use the registered Oeko-Tex Standard 100 label on their products.

Since its inception in 1992, Oeko-Tex has come to be recognized as the leader in eco-labeling, with over 36,000 certificates issued to more than 5,000 manufacturers and over 1 million licensed products. Products with the OekoTex label are tested and guaranteed to be free of all harmful substances, including toxins and irritants. Making sure that the fabrics in your home are safe, natural, and healthy. What's the difference between the Oeko-Tex certification and the GOTS certification? Simple. Both certify textiles to be free of all harmful chemicals. GOTS takes it a step further and certifies that no harmful chemicals were used from harvest through manufacture, waste is disposed of responsibly, and fair labor practices are enforced.

Skal surveys the organic production by means of inspection and certification. Inspections consist of visits to farms, processing and importing units, but also examination of soil, crop or tissue samples and administrative assessments. When the production process fully meets the requirements, certification can take place. In that case Skal issues a certificate as document of support. The organic yarns used in The Purists are certified by SKAL. This certification process includes the entire process of growing the cotton, spinning the fibers and storing the yarns at the production site. The Italian ICEA group, which is part of the AIAB (Italian Organic Farming Association), supervises the organic food production in Italy and monitors the weaving and the finishing of the yardage. Certification is issued periodically, once the manufacturing site has been checked and process is established. These controls and checks are ongoing. Certificates from SKAL and ICEA are issued to the weaver and kept on file.