OEKO-TEX® Bedding Explained: What the Label Really Means
3 min readOEKO-TEX® is the label you see on almost every bedding website in Belgium. But what does it actually test, what does it not mean, and how do you check a label yourself? Here is a short, honest explanation.
What is OEKO-TEX® Standard 100?
OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 is an independent label for textiles that have been tested for harmful substances. It exists since 1992 and is run by independent test institutes in Europe and beyond.
- The finished product is tested, including thread, seams, elastic and buttons, not just the fabric.
- The test checks limit values for a long list of substances, for example formaldehyde, certain heavy metals, pesticide residues and certain dyes that are known to cause allergies.
- A certificate is valid for one year and has to be renewed with new tests.
What the label does not mean
Being honest about this builds more trust than big promises:
- It is not an organic label. It says nothing about how the cotton was grown.
- It is not a medical claim. It does not cure or prevent allergies or skin problems.
- It says nothing about quality or durability. How soft a sheet feels or how long it lasts depends on yarn, weave and finishing.
The 4 product classes
| Class | For |
|---|---|
| I | Baby articles (up to 36 months), strictest limits |
| II | Textiles with direct skin contact, such as bedding, towels and underwear |
| III | Textiles with little or no skin contact, such as jackets |
| IV | Decoration, such as curtains and tablecloths |
The certificate always says which class a product is tested for. For a baby room, look for class I.
OEKO-TEX® vs organic cotton (GOTS)
| Label | What it checks |
|---|---|
| OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 | The finished product, tested for harmful substances |
| GOTS (organic) | How the cotton is grown and processed (organic farming, production rules) |
Two different questions, two different labels. A product can have one, both or neither.
How to check a label
- Find the certificate number and test institute on the label or certificate.
- Enter the number in the Label Check on oeko-tex.com.
- Check that the certificate is still valid and which product class it covers.
OEKO-TEX® at ZM Textiles
All our cotton bedding and towels are OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified.
- Jersey cotton fitted sheets, T144 cotton fitted sheets and flannel fitted sheets, all with a 30 cm corner
- Plain duvet cover sets and printed duvet cover sets
- 500 GSM towels and 600 GSM bath towels
- For a kot: the Kot Starter bundle
Not sure about the size? Read our bed size guide.
Care tip
Wash new bedding once before you use it and always follow the care label. Two sets in rotation last longer than one set that is washed all the time.
Frequently asked questions
Is OEKO-TEX® the same as organic?
No. OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 tests the finished product for harmful substances. Organic labels such as GOTS are about how the cotton is grown.
Does OEKO-TEX® bedding help against allergies?
It is not a medical product. The test does limit substances such as certain dyes known to cause allergies. If you have allergies or skin problems, ask your doctor for advice.
Is OEKO-TEX® bedding suitable for babies?
For babies, look for product class I on the certificate: that class has the strictest limits.
How long is a certificate valid?
One year. After that, the product has to be tested again to keep the label.
How can I check a certificate?
Enter the certificate number in the Label Check on oeko-tex.com. You will see if it is valid and which product class it covers.
Questions? Contact us, we reply within 24 hours (Mon–Sat).