The Importance of “Certified Organic” on the Hospitality Industry

InnStyle has long offered products that carry the “certified organic” label, but what does that distinction really mean in connection to the organic cotton sheets, towels, etc. they sell?

Organic certification only applies to cotton grown according to strict requirements governing fiber production and processing and the use of pesticides and fertilizers.

This blog will look at two of the international organizations that certify organic products such as cotton sheets, cotton towels and other cotton products such as robes, duvets, etc..

The Global Organic Textile Standard

Also known as GOTS, this is a standard that guarantees the organic products you use are safe and environmentally friendly, and produced in a socially-responsible manner.  These are products that are:

• Free of harmful chemicals
• Made in a way that poses no threat to the environment or the communities in which they are produced.
• Produced in facilities that are safe and hygienic, offer livable wages, appropriate work hours, and employ no child laborers.

The International Oeko-Tex Association

Made up of textile representatives from Europe and Japan, this group creates industry standards and is responsible for testing products for harmful substances.

The Oeko-Tex:

• Evaluates raw materials and finished products for all stages of the manufacturing chain.
• Tests consumer textiles to make sure they are free of harmful substances, irritants and toxins.
• Provides a uniform evaluation based on scientific standards to ensure the human ecological safety of textiles.

What’s the Difference Between the Oeko-Tex and GOTS?

While both organizations 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.

If you are looking for a product that has been manufactured while protecting the environment, purchase organic.

You might pay a little bit more, but you won’t have to worry about whether your products are environmentally friendly, or if they contain harmful pesticides.

InnStyle Offers Oeko-Tex and GOTS Products

InnStyle offers a number of sheets that are either GOTS or Oeko-Tex certified. They include the following:

250 Green Sheets- These 250 thread count, percale sheets are made of 60% Organic Cotton and 40% Recycled Polyester and are produced in Oeko-Tex® certified facilities, using certified sustainable processing techniques. These Earth Friendly Fabrics are designed to perform at the highest standards, and to prolong their useful life while keeping the quality of the guest experience.

300 Natural Collection Sheet Sets- 300TC 100% Natural long staple cotton sateen. These magnificently soft sheets feel good on your skin and great on your conscience. Enjoy nature’s perfect blend of beauty, durability and comfort. Cotton is OEKO-TEX certified, which ensures the cotton yarns used in this product are safe for infants and free of harmful chemicals and dyes. Deep pockets and reinforced elastic on the fitted sheet ensure a proper fit up to a 18″ mattress. Available in Natural.

Sateen Organic Cotton Sheet Sets- This 100% organic cotton and 320 thread count sheet set is soft and rich. After many trials, a more relaxed version of sateen has been perfected with a slightly heavier weave for lived-in comfort. Mini double needle stitch on cuffs. The fabric is finished with miDori bioSoft, a USDA certified biobased softener for added comfort and dryness. This sheet set is GOTS + fair trade certified.

InnStyle Has Many Organic Products Just for You

Many guests enjoy staying at properties that value the environment and are looking to promote sustainability. InnStyle knows this which is why they created their own, “Green Bedding,” section to help make it easier to locate these products. InnStyle offers organic sheets, blankets, pillows, comforters, duvet covers, and mattress pads. Please contact InnStyle and speak with one of their account managers about any hospitality questions you may have. They can be reached at 267-354-6020. Their website is https://www.innstyle.com/.