OEKO-TEX

Definition and Overview

OEKO-TEX is a group of international certification and label systems related to the management of hazardous chemicals in the textile and leather fields. It is not a law itself, but a mechanism in which a third party verifies that products, manufacturing processes, and other items conform to established standards.

In general, when “OEKO-TEX” is mentioned in relation to textiles, it often refers to STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX, which tests finished products or their components for hazardous substances. However, the system also includes other certifications for manufacturing processes and chemicals.

Scope and the Approach to Standards

STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX checks yarns, textiles, accessories, garments, 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, finishing agents, prints, coatings, and metal parts.

Standards are established for each product category, taking into account the degree of skin contact and the user. In general, stricter requirements apply to products for infants and toddlers and to products that come into direct contact with the skin. The key factors are intended use and contact conditions, rather than whether the fiber composition is natural or synthetic.

• Chemicals such as formaldehyde
• Dye-derived substances such as specific azo dyes
• Substances checked according to the product and intended use, such as heavy metals, pesticide residues, and plasticizers

Checks When Purchasing Textiles and Making Products

When purchasing certified textiles, confirm the product number covered by the certificate, the applicable colors and finishes, the product category, and the expiration date. Even with the same product number, post-finishing, printing, lamination, water-repellent finishing, and similar processes may place the item outside the scope of the certificate, so it is necessary to compare it with the order specifications.

Even if the textile is certified, the finished garment made from that textile does not automatically receive the same certification. Sewing thread, interlining, zipper, buttons, labels, prints, and other items are also components of the finished product. If the product will be labeled as certified, confirm the applicable scope for the finished product.

Notes on Labeling and Certificates

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

Because certificates have renewal deadlines and conditions, it is important to verify 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 specifications change or the supplier changes, also confirm whether compliance still continues.

Differences from Similar Certifications

GOTS is a certification that covers organic fibers, from raw materials through processing and social criteria. GRS covers recycled content and traceability. By contrast, STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX mainly focuses on safety evaluation for hazardous substances in final products.

bluesign is a system that emphasizes process management in textile manufacturing, including chemical management and resource efficiency. Since each one has different purposes, certification targets, and scope of verification, confirm the type of certificate individually according to the labeling you need and the requirements of the business partner.

Frequently Asked Questions