What is the STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification?
STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® looks at hazardous substances, such as heavy metals, toxic dyes, and carcinogens, making sure textiles are safe for people and the environment.
The standard applies to various levels of production, such as raw and finished yarns, woven and knitted fabrics, accessories, sewing threads or labels, as well as ready-made garments. For a whole garment to be certified, all of its components need to have the STANDARD 100 certification.
The criteria catalogue is extensive and is updated at least once a year to include new scientific knowledge and legal requirements.
The International OEKO-TEX Association, made up of 17 test institutes, monitors and is responsible for the certification.
This certification goes beyond the fashion industry and is also applicable to mattresses, feathers and downs, foams and upholstery.
A brief history of STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®
The standard was introduced in 1992, with a focus on consumer health—especially to prevent adverse health reactions to textiles.
The tests are based on the release of harmful substances from the material, which has to meet a scientifically-founded criteria catalogue with more than 100 individual parameters. The closer the material comes into contact with the skin, the higher the requirements need to be met in tests.
OEKO-TEX® 100 is the most well-known standard by OEKO-TEX®, as well as one of the most accepted and recognised certifications globally.
