What Is STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®?

Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX certified meaning

STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® is one of the most recognised textile certifications worldwide. It verifies that fabrics and textile products have been tested for harmful substances and comply with strict safety requirements.

The certification confirms that every component of a textile product – including fibres, yarns, dyes and accessories – has been evaluated according to internationally recognised criteria. These tests ensure that the textile does not contain chemicals that may be harmful to human health.

For manufacturers, designers and specifiers working in hospitality, contract interiors and public spaces, this certification provides an additional level of transparency and trust. It demonstrates that the textile has been independently tested and complies with internationally accepted safety standards.

In this guide we explain what STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certifies, how the testing process works and why it has become an important reference in the professional textile industry.

OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 Testing Methods

The STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification is based on a comprehensive testing system designed to detect harmful substances in textile products.

Independent laboratories analyse fabrics using advanced analytical techniques to ensure compliance with strict chemical limits defined by the OEKO-TEX® Association.

The testing programme evaluates textiles for a wide range of substances that may pose a risk to human health.

Chemical analysis

Laboratory testing includes the detection of potentially hazardous chemicals such as:

• heavy metals (lead, cadmium or mercury)

• formaldehyde

• pesticides

• phthalates

• organotin compounds

These substances are analysed using advanced techniques such as mass spectrometry, liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC-MS).

Dye and colourant testing

Textiles are also analysed for banned azo dyes and allergenic colourants that may release harmful substances when in contact with the skin.

pH value testing

The pH level of textile materials is measured to ensure compatibility with human skin. Safe pH levels typically range between 4.0 and 7.5, helping to prevent irritation.

Extractable heavy metals

Testing also verifies that harmful metals cannot migrate from the textile during normal use.

Product Classes in STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®

The certification defines four product classes, each with different safety requirements depending on how the textile is used.

Decorative fabrics used in interior design typically fall into Class III or Class IV, depending on their intended application.

OEKO-TEX® Certification and Flame-Retardant Textiles

In technical and contract textiles, safety requirements often include flame-retardant properties in addition to chemical safety. These materials belong to the category of technical textiles developed for performance, safety and durability.

Fabrics used in applications such as upholstery, curtains, stage fabrics and public interiors may be treated with flame-retardant finishes or manufactured with inherently flame-resistant fibres. These flame retardant fabrics are widely used in contract interiors where fire safety regulations apply.

When these textiles are certified under STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®, the certification confirms that the chemical components used in the textile – including any finishing treatments – comply with strict limits for harmful substances.

Certain flame-retardant chemicals are restricted or banned within the OEKO-TEX® testing system, particularly substances known to pose environmental or health risks.

This ensures that flame-retardant textiles can meet both fire safety requirements and human-health standards.

Why OEKO-TEX® Certification Matters in Professional Textiles

For architects, designers and project specifiers, certifications such as STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® provide an important guarantee of product safety.

In sectors such as hospitality, healthcare and public interiors, textiles must often comply with both fire-safety regulations and chemical safety standards. Understanding fire classifications is therefore essential when selecting materials for professional interiors.

In many professional projects, designers and specifiers must select materials that combine aesthetic qualities with proven fire performance. Guides on fireproof materials can help identify suitable solutions for these environments.

OEKO-TEX® Certified Fabrics at Dabedan

At Dabedan, all our fabrics are certified according to STANDARD 100 by OEKO‑TEX, confirming that they have been tested for harmful substances and meet strict international safety requirements.

Our flame-retardant fabrics for curtains, upholstery and decorative applications are designed for professional environments such as hospitality, public spaces and contract interiors.

If you would like more information about our certified fabrics or need technical advice for a project, our team will be happy to assist you.