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OEKO-TEX® Standard 100
OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 is an international certification standard for textiles tested for harmful substances. It ensures that textiles, from yarn to finished product, are safe for human health and meet strict safety requirements. The standard, developed by the OEKO-TEX® association, is recognized globally and used throughout the textile and leather industry.
Key points OEKO-TEX® Standard 100
- Purpose: Ensure that textiles are free from harmful chemicals and safe to use, especially in direct contact with skin.
- Test scope: Includes testing for over 1000 potentially harmful substances, including prohibited or regulated chemicals such as heavy metals, phthalates, and azo dyes.
- Structure: The standard's requirements are based on four product classes, depending on skin contact:
- Class I: Products for babies and toddlers (strictest requirements).
- Class II: Products with direct skin contact (e.g. clothing).
- Class III: Products with limited skin contact (e.g. jackets).
- Class IV: Furnishing textiles (e.g. curtains, furniture).
- Certification: Third-party audits by independent institutes confirm that the product meets the standard's requirements.
- Updates 2025: From April 1, 2025, the certification will no longer include claims of "GMO-free" or "organic" cotton; this now requires OEKO-TEX® ORGANIC COTTON certification. The limit value for bisphenol A (BPA) has been reduced from 100 mg/kg to 10 mg/kg for increased safety. New test methods for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have been introduced from October 2024.
- Global application: Used by over 35,000 companies worldwide, supporting compliance with international regulations such as REACH and CPSIA.
Advantages
- Consumer safety: Guarantees that textiles are free from substances harmful to health.
- Environmental considerations: Reduces the use of harmful chemicals in textile production.
- Market advantage: Certification increases customer confidence and is often a requirement in tenders.
- Cost-effectiveness: Modular testing reduces costs if components are already certified.
- Global recognition: Strengthens reputation and facilitates trade in international markets.
Areas of use
- Used in the textile industry for products such as clothing, bedding, towels, and furniture.
- Relevant for sectors such as fashion, children's products, medical textiles, and interior design.
- Can be integrated with other OEKO-TEX® certifications such as MADE IN GREEN or LEATHER STANDARD for holistic sustainability.