What is OEKO-TEX and Why It Matters

What is OEKO-TEX and Why It Matters

You may have seen it on care labels: OEKO-TEX® Standard 100.
But what does it mean — and why should your brand (and your customers) care?

At HEM APPAREL, many of the fabrics we use are OEKO-TEX certified, ensuring they’re safe, trustworthy, and tested against harmful substances.


🔍 What Is OEKO-TEX®?

  • An international certification system for textile safety

  • Tests fabric, thread, dyes, and trims for over 100 harmful chemicals

  • Covers all stages of production, from fiber to finished garment

  • Most common label: STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®

✅ If a material is OEKO-TEX certified, it's been lab-tested for things like:

  • Formaldehyde

  • Heavy metals

  • Pesticide residues

  • Skin irritants and allergens


🧵 Why It Matters for Fashion Brands

  • Shows that your products are safe to wear next to skin

  • Builds trust with parents, wellness-conscious, and eco-aware shoppers

  • Required by many retailers, especially in Europe, Japan, and the US

  • A good middle-ground if you’re not fully organic or GOTS certified yet

At HEM APPAREL: We prioritize OEKO-TEX-certified materials for babywear, loungewear, and anything meant for sensitive skin.


📦 What OEKO-TEX Doesn’t Mean

Myth Reality
✅ “This product is organic” ❌ Not necessarily – OEKO-TEX ≠ Organic
✅ “This is eco-friendly” ❌ OEKO-TEX tests for toxins, not sustainability
✅ “This factory is certified” ❌ OEKO-TEX applies to products/materials, not entire factories

🧠 HEM APPAREL’s Tip:

If your audience values skin-safe, non-toxic clothing, OEKO-TEX certification is a must.
We can help you verify if a fabric is certified, or source from OEKO-TEX compliant suppliers in Vietnam.

HEM APPAREL – Your trusted manufacturing partner for high-quality custom apparel, made in Vietnam

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