With the OEKO-TEX® Regulations 2025, the association reinforces product safety, transparency, and sustainability in the textile and leather industry, responding to international legal developments such as the REACH regulation and the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
Key Updates in the OEKO-TEX® Regulations 2025:
- Stricter BPA Limit Value in OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100
A key element of the updated OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 regulations is the reduction of the limit value for Bisphenol A (BPA) from 100 mg/kg to 10 mg/kg. BPA is classified as an endocrine disruptor and is commonly found in textiles with skin contact. This adjustment strengthens consumer protection and product safety.
- Updated PFAS Limit Values in Textiles and Leather
As part of the new OEKO-TEX® PFAS regulations, the limit value for "further PFAS" has been set at 250 µg/kg. Additionally, the substance 6:2-FTOH has been moved to the ‘PFHxA-related’ category due to the new EU regulation (2024/2462 of 19 September 2024). OEKO-TEX® aligns with international efforts to reduce PFAS contamination in textiles and leather products.
- New Rules for Organic Cotton Certification
From April 2025, STANDARD 100 certificates will no longer include claims regarding "organic" or "GMO-free cotton". Companies must now obtain separate OEKO-TEX® ORGANIC COTTON certification to make such claims. This change aims to ensure transparency and prevent greenwashing
in the organic cotton sector.
- New Requirements for Leather Supply Chain Transparency
In preparation for the upcoming EUDR regulation, the OEKO-TEX® LEATHER STANDARD will now require companies to provide verifiable proof of origin for their leather products. This measure promotes supply chain transparency and supports the protection of biodiversity.
- Expansion of the ECO PASSPORT Certification Scope
The OEKO-TEX® ECO PASSPORT certification will be extended to cover commodity chemicals and maintenance chemicals. Certified chemical products will now have the option to declare their biodegradability. This development raises the standard for chemical management in the industry.
- Closer Cooperation with ZDHC for STeP Certified Companies
From 2025, companies holding an OEKO-TEX® STeP certificate will be eligible to participate in the ZDHC Supplier to Zero Program. This collaboration streamlines the requirements for sustainable textile and leather production
and facilitates access to global sustainability platforms.
- 🌍 A Milestone for Sustainability and Product Safety
The updated OEKO-TEX® Regulations 2025 send a strong signal for transparency, product safety, and responsible supply chains. They reflect the increasing regulatory demands in the textile and leather industry and contribute to the implementation of international standards such as REACH, EUDR, and ZDHC.
