Oeko-Tex announces new certification standards for 2025

Oeko-Tex, the international certification organization for textiles, recently announced changes to its testing and certification criteria for 2025. These changes will take effect starting April 1 and will impact labels such as Standard 100, Made In Green, STeP, and Eco Passport.

The new regulations are based on scientific and regulatory advancements, aiming to enhance trust and transparency in the industry.

Standard 100 with stricter limits for BPA and organic cotton
The Standard 100 certification will introduce stricter limits for Bisphenol A (BPA), reducing the threshold from 100 mg/kg to 10 mg/kg. BPA, known as an endocrine disruptor, is commonly found in textile products that come into direct contact with the skin, posing health risks.

Regarding organic cotton, the Standard 100 label will no longer reference “organic cotton” or “GMO-free.” To ensure the cotton is certified organic, a new certification, Oeko-Tex Organic Cotton, will be required. However, there will be no changes to the criteria for other organic materials, such as hemp, linen, or wool.

Made In Green with new organic cotton label
The Made In Green certification will now include the new Oeko-Tex Organic Cotton label to ensure greater confidence in products using organic cotton.

STeP ensures access to the ZDHC Supplier to Zero Program
Companies certified with STeP will be eligible to participate in the ZDHC Supplier to Zero program, an initiative aimed at promoting sustainable chemical practices.

Eco Passport with criteria for sustainable chemicals
The Eco Passport certification will incorporate certifications for sustainable base and maintenance chemicals to enable stricter monitoring from the start of the production chain. Products like surfactants will now need to demonstrate their biodegradability to encourage greener practices.

Lastly, with the implementation of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), the Leather Standard certification will require traceability of leather materials, particularly bovine hides, back to the slaughterhouse. This measure aligns with the EU’s 2030 goals, reinforcing environmental and biodiversity protection.

For more information on the new regulations, visit the Oeko-Tex website.