What the logos on a swing tag actually promise, and what they don’t.
By Shreya S · Last reviewed 15 November 2026
Which labels cover the fibre?
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) is the strictest for natural fibres: at least 70 percent certified organic fibre, plus rules on chemicals and working conditions through the whole chain. OCS checks organic content only. GRS (Global Recycled Standard) verifies recycled content. RWS and RDS cover animal welfare for wool and down, and FSC certifies that wood-based fibres such as viscose come from responsibly managed forests.
Which labels cover chemicals?
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 means the finished product has been tested for a list of harmful substances; it says nothing about whether the fibre is organic or how workers are treated. bluesign certifies that chemicals are managed safely in production, and is common in outdoor clothing.
Which cover people and companies?
Fairtrade cotton guarantees farmers a minimum price and a premium for their communities. B Corp certifies a whole company, scoring it on its social and environmental performance and governance; it is a useful signal but not proof that every product is low-impact. Better Cotton is the world’s largest cotton programme, but it mostly uses a “mass balance” system, so a garment with its label may not contain physically traceable Better Cotton.
How should I use them?
As evidence, not as a verdict. Check that the label names the specific product and, ideally, a certificate number you can look up. Be wary of a brand’s own invented logo: under EU rules applying since September 2026, sustainability labels must be based on a certification scheme or set up by public authorities. See greenwashing, explained.
Read on Ayerhs: Sustainable Fashion Certifications: What You Need to Look For · How to Avoid Greenwashing