OEKO-TEX

Definition and overview

OEKO-TEX is a group of international certification and labeling schemes related to the control of hazardous chemicals in the textile and leather fields. It is not a law itself, but a system in which a third party verifies that products, manufacturing processes, and other items comply with defined standards.

In general, when people refer to “OEKO-TEX” for textiles, they often mean STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX, which tests for harmful substances in finished products or their components. However, the system also includes other certifications for manufacturing processes and chemicals.

Scope and basic idea of the standards

STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX checks yarn, textile, accessories, apparel, and other items for residues of substances that may affect the human body. The scope includes a wide range of elements that make up a product, such as dyes, processing agents, prints, coatings, and metal parts.

Standards are set by product category, taking into account the degree of skin contact and the user. In general, products for infants and toddlers, and products that come into direct contact with the skin, are subject to stricter requirements. The key factor is not whether the textile composition is natural fiber or synthetic fiber, but the intended use and contact conditions.

• Chemicals such as formaldehyde
• Substances derived from dyes, such as certain azo dyes
• Substances such as heavy metals, pesticide residues, and plasticizers, depending on the product and applications

Points to check when sourcing textiles and making products

When sourcing certified textile, check the certificate’s covered product number, the colors and processing covered, the product category, and the validity period. Even with the same product number, post-processing, printing, lamination, water-repellent finishing, and similar treatments may fall outside the certificate’s scope, so you need to match the certificate against the order specifications.

Even if the textile is certified, the finished garment made from that textile does not automatically obtain the same certification. Sewing thread, interlining, zipper, buttons, labels, and prints are also components of the finished product. If you display the certification for a product, confirm the scope applicable to the finished item.

Notes on labeling and certificates

When using the OEKO-TEX name or label on product labels, hangtags, or sales materials, the certification type and the scope stated on the certificate must be followed. It is not a label that uniformly indicates meanings such as “environmentally friendly” or “organic,” so avoid expressions that go beyond the certified content.

Because certificates have renewal deadlines and conditions, it is important to check not only the copy received from the supplier but also the certificate number, issuing body, covered products, and whether it is still valid each time. If there are specification changes or a change of supplier, confirm whether compliance is still maintained.

Differences from similar certifications

GOTS is a certification centered on organic fibers that covers everything from raw materials to processing and social standards. GRS covers recycled content and traceability. In contrast, STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX is mainly focused on safety evaluation for hazardous substances in final products.

bluesign is a system that places emphasis on process control in textile manufacturing, including chemical management and resource efficiency. Since each serves a different purpose and covers different areas, check the type of certificate individually according to the labeling you need and your trading partner’s requirements.

Frequently asked questions