Pets, People, and Planet: Sustainable pet bed certifications
We all want the best for our furry friends, and that includes a cozy and comfortable place to rest. But what if that comfy bed could also be better for the planet? Sustainable pet bed certifications come into the picture.
At Blue Toby, we believe in creating pet beds that are both luxurious for your pets, easy-care for you, and sustainable for our environment. One way we achieve this is by prioritizing materials and manufacturing processes that adhere to rigorous environmental and social standards, often verified through third-party certifications. But navigating these certifications can be confusing! This blog post breaks down some of the key certifications you might see, both internationally and in the U.S., so you can make informed choices for your pet and the planet.
Understanding sustainable pet product certifications
Certifications provide independent verification that a product meets specific standards. They offer transparency and build trust, assuring you that a company's claims about sustainability are genuine. The number and diversity of sustainable certifications depend on the type of product, the components, and where it is manufactured.
Trying to make sense of sustainability certifications can be a bit overwhelming. For simplicity, think of certifying a cake! You need to know details about each ingredient and how the cake was put together. You might even want to know about the box the cake was put in and the people who made the cake.
When it comes to pet beds, certifications can also cover a range of factors, from the materials used to the manufacturing process to fair labor practices. Keep in mind that third-party sustainable certifications are just part of the picture. The brand may have an overall commitment to sustainability, outlined in their mission, structure, and goals.
Material and production certifications
International certifications
These certifications cover the materials used to make products to ensure that they are free of harmful chemicals or include the material that is claimed by the manufacturer. Some also look at social issues.
- OEKO-TEX is an international association that certifies fabrics for safety standards. The OOKO-TEX® Standard 100 tests textiles for harmful substances, ensuring they are safe for humans and pets. While not specifically a "sustainability" certification, it guarantees the absence of potentially irritating or toxic chemicals. Other OEKO-TEX certifications cover safe and responsible working conditions. Very few fabrics manufactured in the U.S. carry this certification because they already follow strict regulations.
- Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): GOTS is the leading standard for textiles made from organic fibers. It covers the entire supply chain, from raw materials to finished product, ensuring both environmental and social criteria are met. Looking for GOTS certification on your pet bed means the fabric is made with organic fibers and processed without harmful chemicals.
- Global Recycled Standard (GRS): SCS Global Services provides GRS certification. It verifies the use of recycled materials (such as recycled polyester) in textiles and promotes responsible social, environmental, and chemical practices throughout the supply chain. It ensures traceability and transparency in the recycled content of the fabric.
- R-PET is another name for recycled polyester. Most R-PET is made from plastic water bottles. Unifi manufactures REPREVE® - the most well-known fibers used to make recycled polyester. To date, they have recycled 40 billion plastic bottles! REPREVE is sustainably produced and traceable. R-PET may be GRS certified.
U.S. certifications
- GREENGUARD Gold: The UL GREENGUARD Gold certification applies to many types of products produced in the U.S. The certification indicates that a product has been tested and found to have low chemical emissions, contributing to healthier indoor air quality. This is especially important for pets who spend a lot of time indoors.
-
CertiPUR-US®: This certification applies specifically to flexible polyurethane foam used in bedding and furniture, including pet beds. It ensures the foam is made without formaldehyde, ozone depleters, phthalates, heavy metals, and harmful chemicals that are classified as carcinogens, mutagens or reproductive toxins. CertiPUR-US foams have low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emissions. CertiPUR-US and USDA also certify bio-based foam.
Fair and safe working condition certifications
Some certifications for products are focused more on the social welfare of the individuals making the product. This is relevant to products that are manufactured in countries without strong employee rights and safety regulations.
- Fairtrade: While often associated with food, Fairtrade certification can also apply to cotton and other materials used in pet beds. It ensures fair prices and working conditions for farmers and workers involved in the production process.
- Fair Wear Foundation (FWF): FWF certification guarantees that garments are produced under fair and safe working conditions, with a particular focus on the garment industry. It addresses issues such as living wages, child labor, and freedom of association. It may apply to select pet products.
Organizational certifications
Companies selling pet products can also be organized to include environmental and social goals beyond just profit.
B Corp Certification: While not product-specific, B Corp certification verifies that a company meets high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Choosing a B Corp certified brand means supporting a business committed to sustainability across its operations.
Public Benefit Corp or LLC: These are legal structures for companies that aim to produce public benefits while remaining sustainable and responsible. A public benefit company can also be B Corp Certified if it goes through the assessment process.
What to look for when shopping
When shopping for a pet bed, look for these certifications on the product label or the company's website. Don't hesitate to ask the company about their sustainability practices and what certifications they hold. Keep in mind that some international certifications don’t apply if the product is manufactured in countries like the U.S. that already have high safety and employee regulations.
Making a difference, one snuggle at a time
Blue Toby is a small, woman-owned business that was organized as a Public Benefit LLC. Our social mission is to support environmental conservation and animal welfare, which are equally as important as producing profits. That is why we selected sustainable materials for our products that carry certifications including CertiPUR-US foams, REPREVE recycled polyester fabrics, and Greenguard GOLD upholstery fabric. Beyond certifications, we use recycled materials for packing and shipping (which is also carbon neutral), we plant a tree for every purchase, and provide a blanket for a pet in need with every pet bed purchased.
By choosing pet beds made with sustainable materials and certified by reputable organizations, you can make a difference for the planet and provide your furry friend with a healthy and comfortable place to rest. We believe that sustainability and comfort can go hand in hand, and we're proud to offer pet beds that are good for you, your pet. and the planet.
Check out other information on sustainability from Blue Toby:
Sustainable pet products for a better tomorrow