What is Oeko-Tex? Everything You Need To Know

As consumers become more conscious of their buying impact, there's a growing shift toward ethical and eco-friendly production practices. If you've seen an Oeko-Tex label on your clothing, baby stroller, or infant car seats, you might be curious about what it represents. Established in 1992 and operating in over 40 countries, the Zurich-based International Oeko-Tex Association provides certifications like Oeko-Tex Standard 100 and Standard 1000. These standards make sure that consumers get the safest and highest-quality products. 
 

As a textile manufacturer specializing in fabrics that meet Oeko-Tex standards for baby products like strollers and infant car seats, we understand the importance of high safety standards. We're experts on the Oeko-Tex label and have put together a comprehensive guide to help you understand everything about it. Let's dive in and learn more!

Read more: The Best Non-Toxic Car Seats and What Makes Them FR Free
 

Why is OEKO-TEX important?

There are a few reasons as to why Oeko-Tex is so important:
 

1. Third-party testing to prevent greenwashing

The independent, third-party testing model used by Oeko-Tex is crucial in today's market to prevent "greenwashing," where brands claim to be eco-friendly without truly committing to those practices.
 

2. Protection from harmful substances

Many are unaware that sleeping on certain sheets, wearing specific clothing, or using strollers with flame retardants fabric can lead to exposure to toxic substances. These can be absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream via a process called dermal absorption, which can potentially damage organs and overall health. Another great benefit of buying Oeko-Tex® certified products is that they can be used safely right after purchase, without needing to be washed first!

 

STANDARD 100 by Oeko-Tex®

The STANDARD 100 by Oeko-Tex® is the most well-known and trusted certification for product safety. You might have seen it on clothing or baby products. If a textile item carries the STANDARD 100 label, it means every single element—threads, zippers, buttons, and all—has been independently tested for harmful substances and meets Oeko-Tex’s extensive criteria. In many cases, the Oeko-Tex® STANDARD 100 certification specifications are even stricter than national and international requirements. Plus, the certification criteria are updated at least once a year to stay current with scientific discoveries and regulatory changes. 
 

What does STANDARD 100 test for?

This independent certification tests for over 100 toxic substances, including formaldehyde, nickel, and azo dyes. It also includes substances not yet legally banned but suspected to be harmful, such as allergy-inducing colorants and synthetic softeners like phthalates. For textiles intended for babies and toddlers, additional tests simulate sucking and nibbling to check for color bleeding. Materials used in bulkier products, like furniture, are analyzed for dangerous air emissions.
 

How long does STANDARD 100 last for?

Testing is conducted by 18 independent laboratories worldwide, and the certification is valid for one year. To renew, companies must submit new product samples for testing, ensuring ongoing commitment to product safety. 

 

What is the cost of Oeko-Tex Standard 100?

While the cost of obtaining the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the product and the number of different materials used, the average cost of a certificate in the U.S. is around $6,500. 
 

Fixed costs: 

• $1,150 /year: OEKO-TEX® licensing fee 

• $1,500 in first year then every third year: quality assurance meeting
   

Variable costs:
Testing and administrative costs depend on which tests are required. Quote is issued after all samples and paperwork have been received.
 

STANDARD 100 product classes

STANDARD 100 by Oeko-Tex® categorizes products into four classes based on their intended use:

1. Class 1: Products for babies and toddlers, requiring the highest level of safety.

2. Class 2: Products with direct skin contact, such as underwear, bed linen, and t-shirts.

3. Class 3: Products with minimal skin contact, like jackets and belts.

4. Class 4: Decorative materials, such as curtains and upholstery fabrics.
    

MADE IN GREEN by Oeko-Tex®

MADE IN GREEN by Oeko-Tex® is a label that certifies textiles as both environmentally friendly and socially responsible. This certification ensures that the product is free from harmful substances and meets the strict safety standards similar to those of STANDARD 100 by Oeko-Tex®. What makes MADE IN GREEN unique is its focus on the entire production process. It guarantees that the textile has been made under sustainable and socially responsible conditions. This includes ensuring safe and fair working conditions, no child labor, and fair wages for workers. The certification also requires production facilities to minimize their environmental impact by using resources efficiently, managing waste, and controlling pollution.

Each MADE IN GREEN product has a unique product ID or QR code, allowing consumers to trace the supply chain and verify the certification. This transparency builds trust and helps consumers make informed choices about the products they buy.

Read more: Sustainable Fabrics: How Eco-Friendly Are They Really?

 

OEKO-TEX Made in Green vs. Standard 100

While both certifications focus on product safety, MADE IN GREEN emphasizes the production process's environmental and social aspects. Here's a comparison:
 

Criteria	MADE IN GREEN	STANDARD 100
Harmful Substances	Tested and certified	Tested and certified
Environmental Impact	Sustainable production processes	Not specifically addressed
Social Responsibility	Safe and fair working conditions	Not specifically addressed
Traceability	Yes, with a unique product ID or QR code	No

 

What is Oeko-Tex Standard 1000?

Oeko-Tex Standard 1000, also known as STeP (Sustainable Textile Production), is a certification that evaluates and certifies production facilities based on their environmental and social practices. Unlike the STANDARD 100, which focuses on product safety, Standard 1000 takes a broader approach, assessing the entire production process to ensure sustainability and social responsibility.
 

This certification covers a range of criteria, including:

• Waste Management: Ensuring that production facilities have effective systems in place for managing waste, minimizing waste generation, and promoting recycling and reuse.

• Chemical Management: Assessing the use and handling of chemicals in the production process to ensure they are managed safely and responsibly, reducing the risk of environmental contamination and worker exposure.

• Environmental Performance: Evaluating the overall environmental impact of the production facility, including energy consumption, water usage, and emissions. The goal is to promote practices that reduce environmental footprints and enhance sustainability.

• Social Responsibility: Ensuring fair and ethical treatment of workers, including safe working conditions, fair wages, and no child labor. This criterion also includes promoting workers' rights and supporting community development.
   

To achieve the Oeko-Tex Standard 1000 certification, production facilities must demonstrate compliance with these stringent criteria. The certification process involves thorough audits and continuous improvement plans to help facilities enhance their sustainability practices over time.
 

Does “Oeko-Tex® Certified” also mean Organic?

No, Oeko-Tex certification doesn't mean a product is organic. While Oeko-Tex guarantees that textiles are free from harmful substances, it doesn't confirm that the materials are organically produced. Oeko-Tex certification focuses on the safety and chemical content of the final product, making sure it’s free from hazardous chemicals and substances that could be harmful to humans and the environment. 

For a product to be certified organic, it needs to meet standards like the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), which verifies that textiles are made from organic fibers and processed according to strict environmental and social criteria.
 

Does OEKO-TEX mean non-toxic?

Yes, Oeko-Tex certification means that the product has been tested and proven to be free from harmful levels of toxic substances. This includes a wide range of chemicals that can be hazardous to human health and the environment. Products with the Oeko-Tex label have undergone rigorous testing to confirm they do not contain harmful substances such as formaldehyde, heavy metals, pesticides, and other toxins like flame retardants. Therefore, consumers can trust that Oeko-Tex-certified products are non-toxic and safe to use.
 

Read more: What Is Flame Retardant Fabric? Can It Be Non-Toxic?

 

Is OEKO-TEX greenwashing?

No, Oeko-Tex is not considered greenwashing. Greenwashing refers to the practice of making misleading or unsubstantiated claims about a product's environmental benefits, often to create a false impression of environmental responsibility. Oeko-Tex certifications, on the other hand, are based on rigorous, standardized testing and independent verification, providing genuine assurance of a product's safety and environmental compliance.

Oeko-Tex certifications are awarded only after a thorough evaluation by accredited independent laboratories. These evaluations cover a wide range of criteria, including the presence of harmful substances, the environmental impact of production processes, and the social responsibility of manufacturing practices. Plus, Oeko-Tex provides clear and accessible information about its certification criteria and processes. Consumers can verify the authenticity of Oeko-Tex labels through the Label Check tool on the Oeko-Tex website, which allows them to trace the certification back to the specific product and manufacturer.
 

Oeko-Tex vs. GRS Certification

Oeko-Tex certification focuses on the safety and chemical content of the final product, making sure it is free from over 100 harmful substances. It does not guarantee that the materials are organic or recycled but emphasizes consumer safety and environmental impact by addressing harmful chemicals and pollutants.

On the other hand, GRS (Global Recycled Standard) certification specifically verifies the recycled content in products and ensures sustainable production practices. It also covers social criteria, such as fair labor practices and ethical working conditions. GRS guarantees a specific percentage of recycled materials, promoting sustainability from both an environmental and social perspective.

Read more: What is GRS and RCS? 6 Step to Get GRS/RCS Certified
 

Aspect	Oeko-Tex Certification	GRS Certification
Focus	Safety and chemical content of the final product.	Verification of recycled content and sustainable production practices.
Harmful Substances	Ensures the product is free from over 100 harmful substances.	Not specifically focused on harmful substances but addresses overall sustainability.
Material Composition	Does not guarantee organic or recycled materials.	Guarantees a specific percentage of recycled materials.
Environmental Impact	Emphasizes reducing environmental impact by addressing harmful chemicals and pollutants.	Promotes sustainability by ensuring recycled content and responsible production practices.
Social Criteria	Does not cover social criteria explicitly.	Covers social criteria, including fair labor practices and ethical working conditions.
Applicability	Applicable to various textiles, ensuring they meet safety and environmental standards.	Applicable to products with recycled content, ensuring they meet sustainability and ethical standards.

 

Oeko-Tex vs. GOTS Certification

Oeko-Tex and GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) are both respected certifications in the textile industry, but they serve different purposes. While Oeko-Tex focuses on the safety of finished products, GOTS certified the organic production of raw materials such as cotton, flax etc. 
 

Feature	Oeko-Tex Certification	GOTS Certification
Focus	Safety and chemical content of the final product	Organic status and environmental/social criteria
Harmful Substances	Tested for over 100 harmful substances	Ensures no harmful chemicals in processing
Material Source	Does not guarantee organic materials	Guarantees use of organic fibers
Environmental Impact	Addresses harmful chemicals and pollutants	Ensures sustainable and eco-friendly processing
Social Criteria	Not primarily focused on social aspects	Ensures fair labor practices and no child labor
Label Transparency	Product ID or QR code for supply chain traceability	Certification details available for consumers
Annual Review	Criteria updated annually based on latest research	Certification reviewed and updated regularly
Product Scope	Applicable to all types of textiles and materials	Primarily for organic textiles and apparel
Global Recognition	Recognized worldwide	Recognized worldwide

 

GOTS uses two labels: “organic” for materials with a minimum of 95% organic fibers and “made with organic materials” requiring at least 70% organic fibers. Both organizations include requirements for ethical and fair employment practices.
 

How to check a product is Oeko-Tex® certified?

To verify if a product is Oeko-Tex certified, you can use the Label Check tool available on the Oeko-Tex website. This tool provides an easy and reliable way to confirm the authenticity of the Oeko-Tex certification for any textile product.

1. Locate the Certification Number
Look for the Oeko-Tex label on the product. This label will include a unique certification number, which is essential for verification.
 

2. Visit the Oeko-Tex Website
Go to the official Oeko-Tex website (www.oeko-tex.com) and navigate to the Label Check tool. This tool is specifically designed to help consumers verify product certifications.

3. Enter the Certification Number
In the Label Check tool, enter the unique certification number found on the product's Oeko-Tex label. Make sure to enter the number accurately to get the correct information.
 

4. Review the Certification Details
Once you enter the certification number, the tool will display detailed information about the product, including the validity of the certification, the specific articles that were tested, and the testing process. This information helps confirm that the product meets the stringent Oeko-Tex standards for safety and environmental compliance.
 

5. Check Additional Information
The Label Check tool may also provide additional details about the manufacturer, the types of materials used, and any specific conditions or limitations of the certification. This transparency allows consumers to make informed decisions about the products they purchase.
 

What Products Can Be Oeko-Tex Certified?

1. Everyday Clothing

• Shirts, pants, dresses, underwear, socks, and outerwear

• Footwear: Leather, synthetic fabrics, linings, and laces

2. Home Textiles

• Bed linens, pillowcases, duvet covers, blankets

• Towels, bathrobes

• Curtains, upholstery fabrics, table linens

• Cushions

3. Baby and Children Products

• Baby strollers, infant car seats

• Clothing, baby blankets, soft toys

4. Textile Components and Accessories

• Buttons, zippers, threads, labels, elastic bands

5. Technical Textiles

• Used in industries such as automotive, medical, and protective gear
   

How to wash Oeko-tex standard 100?

To maintain the integrity of your Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified products, follow these washing guidelines:

• Read the care label: Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Use mild detergents: Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the fabric.

• Wash in cold or warm water: Hot water can damage the fabric and reduce its lifespan.

• Avoid bleach: Bleaching agents can break down the fibers and compromise safety.

• Dry gently: Use low heat settings or air dry to prevent shrinking and wear.
   

FAQs

1. Is Oeko-Tex Standard 100 good?

Yes, Oeko-Tex Standard 100 is highly regarded for ensuring textiles are free from harmful substances, making it a trustworthy certification for consumers.
 

2. What are the harmful substances in OEKO-TEX?

Oeko-Tex tests for over 100 harmful substances, including formaldehyde, heavy metals, pesticides, and phthalates.
 

3. Is OEKO-TEX made from cotton?

Oeko-Tex certification applies to products made from various materials, not just cotton. It can include synthetic fibers, wool, silk, and more.
 

4. Does OEKO-TEX Standard 100 mean no fiberglass?

Yes, products certified under Oeko-Tex Standard 100 do not contain harmful levels of fiberglass.
 

5. Can you wash OEKO-TEX?

Yes, Oeko-Tex-certified products can be washed. Follow the specific care instructions on the product label for the best results.
 

6. Does OEKO-TEX allow BPA?

No, BPA (Bisphenol A) is one of the harmful substances that Oeko-Tex tests for and restricts in certified products.
 

7. Does OEKO-TEX have formaldehyde?

Oeko-Tex-certified products are tested to ensure they contain minimal to no formaldehyde, adhering to strict safety limits.
 

8. What chemicals are banned in OEKO-TEX?

Oeko-Tex bans numerous harmful chemicals, including azo dyes, formaldehyde, heavy metals, and pesticides.
 

9. Is OEKO-TEX safe for babies?

Yes, Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Class 1 products are specifically tested for safety for babies and toddlers!
 

10. Does OEKO-TEX test on animals?

No, Oeko-Tex certification does not involve animal testing. The focus is on chemical testing and safety.
 

11. What is the difference between Oeko-Tex Standard 100 and Eco Passport?

Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certifies the safety of finished textile products, while Eco Passport focuses on the safety and sustainability of chemical products used in textile manufacturing.
 

12. Does Oeko Tex allow PFAS?

Oeko-Tex tests for and restricts PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances), ensuring that certified products are free from these harmful chemicals.