compliance · 5 min read

OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100: what it certifies and what it does not

OEKO-TEX is the most quoted and least understood certificate in textiles. It tests the article for harmful substances — it says nothing about working conditions, organic content or where the fabric was made.

By Weft Bridge · Reviewed by our Guangzhou sourcing team · Updated 2026-11

The four product classes

Class	For	Strictness
I	Baby and toddler articles	Strictest
II	Articles in direct contact with skin	Common for apparel
III	Articles away from skin	Jackets, outerwear
IV	Decoration and furnishing	Least strict

What is tested

The test covers regulated and non-regulated harmful substances: azo dyes, formaldehyde, heavy metals, pesticides, chlorinated phenols, phthalates and more, depending on the class.

It is tested per article, not per factory. A mill can hold a certificate for one quality and not another, and the certificate lists the articles it covers in an appendix.

How to verify

Ask for the certificate number and the holder name.
Check the number on the issuing institute database, not on a PDF the supplier sent.
Check the appendix: does it list the article you are buying?
Check the validity date — certificates are renewed annually.
The label ID on the product should match the certificate.

FAQ

Does OEKO-TEX mean organic?

No. Organic content is covered by GOTS or similar. OEKO-TEX is about harmful substances.

Is it a factory audit?

No. It is a product test. Working conditions and environmental performance are separate schemes.