What is Oeko Tex Certification? A Quick Guide to More Sustainability

More likely, it isn’t the first time you have heard about Oeko Tex Certification. Chances are, you’re currently using or wearing Oeko-certified textiles. But what really this label means and what is its importance in textile manufacturing industry.

$Oeko Tex Certification$

What is OEKO Tex Certification?

As a response to the growing global concerns over product safety, the International Oeko-Tex Organization was established in Switzerland in 1992. In that same year, the organisation introduced its most recognised certification, the Standard 100.

This label certifies that every component of a product, from the fabric to the thread and accessories, has been rigorously tested against a list of up to 350 toxic chemicals.

This means any products with this label are guaranteed free from harmful substances that can negatively impact humans and the environment. Consequently, this label is applicable for textile and leather products.

Why is OEKO Tex Certification Important?

Passing the standard set by the organization is crucial in the textile industry. Being OEKO-certified provides a lot of benefits to a business.

But people often mistakenly assume that this label is similar to GOTS Certification. Are they really the same?

You might also ask what the Standard 100 Product Classifications are. How to get certified? Let’s discuss it further as we go deep in this article.

Protect the Consumers and the Planet

Protecting people and the environment from harmful chemicals is the main objective of this certification.

When a company is OEKO-certified, it will be able to guarantee its consumer’s safety, as well the environment.

High Chance of Getting Trust from Consumers

Not all textile and leather suppliers have the privilege to become OEKO- certified.

Having said that, people will trust the companies that passed the qualifications more than those who are not.

Become Socially Responsible

Certified suppliers must take action to protect workers, ensure safe working conditions and strengthen healthy labour practices. This also helps in the moral of the company.

Oeko-Tex Standard 100 Product Classification

Product Class 1

This product class includes products for babies and has the strictest requirements and limited values.

Product Class 2

Includes products which come into direct contact with the skin, such as shirts, underwear, and mattresses.

Product Class 3

Includes products which have no or minimal direct contact with the skin during use, like jackets, and belts.

Product Class 4

Includes textiles and products used for decoration, such as furniture, upholstery materials, curtains, and tablecloths.

OEKO Tex vs. GOTS Certification

OEKO-Tex Certification deals with the hazardous nature of products while GOTS is accountable for the organic nature of products.

Through an independent testing process, items that contain a minimum of 95% organic fibres are labelled “organic”, while those containing a minimum of 70% organic fibres are labelled “made with organic materials”.

A Quick Guide to GOTS Certification: Why Everyone Should Go Organic?

How to Get OEKO Tex Certified?

Companies need to apply voluntarily if they want their products to be certified. There are eighteen laboratories that conduct the test around the globe.

Oeko Tex Certification expires every year as the organisation do an annual review and updates the criteria. Since it is a global standard, the requirements are universal regardless of country.

6 Steps to get Certified

1. Certification Application

Completion of the application form and submission of the material sample.

2. Verification of the Application

Verification of the application and the material sample

3. Definition and Analytics

Definition of test and measurement criteria, development of an individual measurement plan, and testing of the material sample.

4. On-Site Visit

Inspection and evaluation of the factory before or after certification.

5. Report

Delivery of a detailed test report, including final assessment.

6. Certificate

Issue of certificate for 1 year and renew after the OEKO releases the updated standards for the following year.

Other Product Certifications You Need to Know!

EcoVadis is one of the world’s most comprehensive sustainability rating tools, evaluating private and public companies according to their social, ethical and environmental impacts.

Assessing Corporate Sustainability: What is EcoVadis Certification?

Plush toys certification standards vary from region to region, differing in the EU and the United States. Generally, some basic tests in laboratories are required.

Everything You Should Know About Plush Toys Certifications and Labelling

One of the most important aspects of high-quality manufacturing is having Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) procedures in place. Undergoing an FDA inspection is a key component of GMP.

GMP 101: The Importance of FDA Testing in Mass Production

Bottom Line…

Being an OEKO-Tex certified surely gives a lot of opportunities for businesses. Companies that adhere to this standard don’t just welcome success to their business but also help in promoting sustainable living among consumers.

What is the Role of ODM?

ODM, together with its design company based in Vietnam, Mindsparkz pride itself as a pioneer in producing sustainable promotional products for local and international businesses. Since 2003, we have been committed to helping companies produce high-quality green promotional products. These products don’t just help them sell to the market but also add value to their brands.

Therefore, we encourage every industry to start switching to a greener way of marketing. We are here to extend our help! Feel free to connect with us. Rest assured that we are here to assist you in your sustainable journey!