What is Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex and reading the number and class

Short answer: What is Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex? It is a testing label for textiles, where a number, an institute and a product class show what has been tested and who holds the certificate. You can look the number up on the Oeko-Tex website and see what it covers.

What is Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex

Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex is a testing label for textiles that have been examined for selected substances that can be unwanted in clothing. It is one of the most widespread schemes in the industry. The label sits on the hang tag or care label, and next to it are a few details that are worth reading.

The certificate number

The number is the key to the label. It identifies the certificate, so you can look it up on the Oeko-Tex website and see who it was issued to and what it applies to. If there is no number, the label cannot be checked. Look at the range for men and look for the details on each page.

The testing institute

Next to the number there is often the name or abbreviation of the institute that carried out the test. It is an independent institute that has examined samples of the textile. You do not need to remember the name, but it shows that the test was not done by the company itself.

The product class

The standard has four classes according to skin contact. Class 1 is for the youngest users, class 2 for clothing with direct skin contact, class 3 for clothing without direct skin contact and class 4 for furnishing. Underwear, socks and t-shirts typically belong to class 2, because they sit close to the skin all day.

The text on the label

The label often carries a short text saying the textile has been tested for harmful substances. That text can be read as it is: it says the test has been passed, not that everything in production is perfect. Use it as one detail, and read it together with the number and the class.

What the numbers cannot tell you

The numbers say nothing about fit, softness or how long the garment lasts. They do not say how the raw material was grown either. The best use is as a help when comparing two garments, not as an overall grade. Try the clothes on and judge the rest yourself.

How to check in practice

Write the number down and look it up when you get home. If it takes more than a few minutes, you can ask the shop for a copy of the certificate. You will get the answer best in writing. Look at bamboo clothing for men and bamboo T-shirts for men for everyday wear.

Care whatever the label

The label does not change the care instructions. Wash at the temperature on the label and avoid strong softener, which can make soft fibres stiff. Dry clothes flat or hanging without direct heat. That way softness and shape last longer, and you get more from each garment.

Frequently asked questions

What is Standard 100 by Oeko-Tex?

A testing label for textiles, where a number, an institute and a class show what has been tested. The number can be looked up on the Oeko-Tex website.

Which class does underwear belong to?

Typically class 2, which applies to clothing with direct skin contact. The class is shown next to the number on the label.

Does the label say anything about fit?

No. The label concerns testing for selected substances. You judge fit, softness and durability yourself.