Question from J. S.
Have you had any experience with fabrics with this certification? Not all the fabrics are natural fibers but supposedly are tested for harmful and/or toxic substances. I’m looking for fabric to have make into slipcovers that will be washable. What are your thoughts on polyester fabrics or combination poly cotton as an option? I have found a denim like cotton but I’m looking for something with a pattern to mix and match to increase options. Any other recommendations.Thank You.
Debra’s Answer
Oeko-Tex Standard 100 or ֫o-Tex Standard 100 is an international testing and certification system for textiles, developed in 1992.
It centers around a list of harmful substances used in textile production, which are tested for. The list of harmful substances is based on the latest scientific findings and is continually updated. The test samples are tested by the independent Oeko-Tex institutes for
There are four Oeko-Tex product classes:
If all components of a textile product comply with the requirements of the Oeko-Tex criteria catalogue without exception, the textile manufacturer receives certification and is entitled to use the Oeko-Tex label on their product. The Oeko-Tex certificate is issued for a period of one year and can be extended subject to further successful testing. In order to ensure ongoing compliance with the test criteria, the authorised Oeko-Tex Institutes carry out control tests every year on a minimum of 15% of all certificates issued on Oeko-Tex products currently being sold.
It’s my understanding that the certification only applies to the toxicity of the products, and no other environmental factors. I would say that if the certification is given to a synthetic fabric, such as polyester, it would have been manufactured in a way that does not contain any of the list of harmful substances. But it still would be made from nonrenewable petroleum and not be biodegradble, which are not considerations with this certification.
I still opt for organically grown natural fibers as the best choice all around for health and the environment. But the Oko-Tex 100 standard would guarantee that a textile meets the standards given for presence of harmful substances.
