Standard Owner Benchmark - OEKO-TEX(R)

OEKO-TEX® is a global certification system for textiles and leather products. It is not a non-profit organization but a registered trademark owned by the International Association for Research and Testing in the Field of Textile and Leather Ecology (Oeko-Tex Association).

The Oeko-Tex Association was founded in 1992 and is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. It is an independent organization that sets standards and conducts testing and certification processes to ensure that textiles and leather products are free from harmful substances and produced in environmentally friendly and socially responsible conditions.

The OEKO-TEX® certification system is internationally recognized and consists of several product labels, each with specific criteria and requirements. These labels include:

STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®: This label ensures that textiles have been tested for harmful substances and are safe for human use. It sets strict limits for various substances, including heavy metals, formaldehyde, pesticides, and allergenic dyes.

MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX®: This label goes beyond the safety aspect and also considers the social and environmental aspects of textile production. It verifies that the certified product is made in environmentally friendly facilities and under socially responsible working conditions.

STeP by OEKO-TEX®: This label focuses on sustainable textile production processes and evaluates factors such as chemical management, environmental performance, social responsibility, and health and safety measures in the workplace.

ECO PASSPORT by OEKO-TEX®: This certification verifies that the chemicals used in textile and leather production meet specific safety and environmental criteria.

The OEKO-TEX® certification system provides transparency and assurance to consumers, retailers, and manufacturers that the certified products have undergone rigorous testing and comply with strict standards for safety, sustainability, and responsible production.

While the Oeko-Tex Association is not a non-profit organization, its mission is to protect consumers and the environment by promoting sustainable and safe textile production. It collaborates with stakeholders in the textile industry and continuously updates its standards to address emerging challenges and meet evolving consumer expectations.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information about OEKO-TEX® and its certification system, it is recommended to visit their official website or contact the Oeko-Tex Association directly.