Aster & Oak

Our Ethical Standards

Our Ethical & Social Standards

When we asked parents why they love Aster & Oak, they said our designs are unique and our clothing is so soft and comfortable for playing and snuggling in – but did you know, we also have a deeper purpose? We want to make the world a better place by maintaining high ethical standards in all areas of our business. We personally hand illustrate, design and track every step of the manufacturing process of our products - from the soil the cotton is grown in, right up to your door. A lot goes into a tiny outfit for a baby, and we want to ensure every step in the supply chain supports the environment and human rights.

Social responsibility

What exactly is social responsibility? It means that we, as a company have a duty to act in the best interests of our environment and society as a whole. Aster & Oak is an advocate for social responsibility. We want our products to have a meaningful and positive impact on everyone involved in their creation and the world we live in.
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This year marks the 8th anniversary of the Rana Plaza factory collapse, which killed 1,138 people and injured many more in 2013. Despite cracks appearing in the building the day before, garment factory workers were told they must go to work. Fashion greatly impacts human lives around the world. We encourage you as the consumer, to ask brands #whomademyclothes?
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We only partner with organisations that provide fair and safe working conditions. These are some of our strict expectations, that are audited by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS):

Safe and healthy work environments

The Rana Plaza factory collapse is a deeply sad example of employees being forced into unsafe working conditions. We require the working environments of our factories to be structurally safe, hygienic, and supportive of physical and mental health and well-being.

Fair wages

Our workers are paid far above the minimum wage set by the International Labor Organisation, an agency of the United Nations. Fair wages means that workers can care for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Inclusive employment

We only support inclusive workplaces that do not discriminate on the basis of gender, age, ethnicity, political preference, religion or sexual orientation. Diverse and inclusive workplaces are healthier and happier places to be.

Minimum age requirements

We demand minimum age requirements for all workers. We want to stop child and underage labour around the world, so children have the freedom to play and be educated.  

Fair working hours

Working hours should be fair and have a fixed schedule. Standard working hours should apply, with weekends and holidays. All overtime should be voluntary, and paid at a much higher rate.

No bonded labour

Bonded labour should not exist, even though millions of workers are in bonded labour around the world. As a form of slavery, workers are forced to work to repay a debt. They must work even if they are sick, and are punished if they try to escape.

Quality control and Minimised waste

We are certified by GOTS, which is a worldwide standard for organic fibres. There are strict rules we must adhere to, certifications to apply for and social and environmental criteria. Fibres must be free from harmful chemicals, processes must reduce wastage and environmental harm, and workers must be employed safely and fairly.
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We also only manufacture small runs to prevent mass wastage of unsold clothing. We do not contribute to fast fashion, and our items are high-quality, durable and long-lasting. They can be resold, or passed on to younger children. Any garments that have faults or small marks will be donated or used for our monthly Mystery Bags!

Naturally Made

From soil to seams, each seasons collection is naturally made. Created with love and respect for the people who make and wear our clothes. Natural dyes and zero chemicals make every garment safe for your baby, those who grow the cotton and tomorrow’s children.
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If you have any other questions about our manufacturing processes or ethical / fair trades, feel free to contact us.