OEKO-TEX Standard 100: What It Covers and What It Does Not
OEKO-TEX certifies that a textile article has been tested against harmful substance limits, not that it is organic or low carbon.
The following sections cover the definition, the specification values, production control, testing and commercial impact.
Structure of the standard
Products are classified by use, from baby articles through to decorative materials, with limits set accordingly.
It also reduces the risk of a mid-season change, which is where both cost and calendar damage usually originate.
What is tested
Restricted and regulated substances including heavy metals, formaldehyde, azo dyes and pesticide residues where relevant.
Add the value to the pre-production sample approval sheet so it is checked before bulk rather than after shipment.
- Ask for a separate price line for the requirement
- Confirm minimum quantities before committing the colourway
- Build one extra approval round into the calendar
Certification validity
Certificates are issued for a specified article and production site, and the validity period must be checked.
Review machine maintenance schedules, because worn parts change results gradually and are easily missed.
Common misunderstandings
The standard does not certify organic origin, working conditions or environmental performance.
Include the same test in the pre-production approval checklist to avoid testing after the goods are shipped.
- Confirm the numeric range and the test method in the specification
- Keep an approved physical standard at the machine
- Retest after the agreed care regime before shipping
Buyer verification
Confirm the certificate number, scope and product class rather than accepting a logo on the packaging.
Choose suppliers who understand the requirement, because competence reduces the hidden cost of rework.
Summary
A clear specification, a trained operator and a documented test together remove most of the risk from this part of the programme.
