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managing our water impact

At Carter’s, we recognize our responsibility to support adequate water access for future generations by minimizing water consumption across our operations and supply chain, focusing particularly on our manufacturing processes where we have the greatest opportunity for impact. This can be challenging due to the nature of the textile industry, where manufacturing processes are water intensive. Balancing consumer preferences for soft, comfortable clothing with water reduction goals are part of this ongoing challenge. However, we see these challenges as opportunities for innovation.
GOAL
Reduce water usage in the manufacturing and washing of our products
2025 PROGRESS
Reduced water usage in the manufacturing of our OshKosh overalls by more than 2.6 million liters, a reduction of more than 20% of liters per garment
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We have developed a two-pronged strategy that balances innovation with practical optimization:

embracing technological innovation

In 2025, we expanded use of ozone washing technology for a portion of our OshKosh brand—our World’s Best Overalls™—and a portion of our denim production for Carter’s playwear and Little Planet. This innovative wash approach marks a significant shift from conventional washing methods.


reimagining design processes

Our design teams are pioneering new ways to achieve the soft, comfortable feel parents expect from Carter’s products while minimizing water usage. We continue to explore alternative fabric finishing techniques that create the same cozy feel without water-intensive washing processes.
Over the last few years, we have reduced the number of overall styles that require additional garment washing in the manufacturing process. While our overall style count grew in 2025, washed styles still represent only 14% of our assortment. Since 2019, we have reduced the number of styles needing additional garment washing by 6%.
To enhance accountability and to track our progress, we have implemented the Environmental Impact Measuring (EIM) software of Jeanologia—a comprehensive monitoring tool that provides enhanced visibility into our washing processes. This system scores each wash process based on water usage, energy consumption, and chemical impact, helping us make data-driven decisions about our manufacturing processes. EIM complements our use of the Higg Index to further reduce water usage in the manufacturing and washing of our products.
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