All revised OEKO-TEX standards are set to become effective from 1 April 2025 after a transition phase.
Notably, the introduction of OEKO-TEX Organic Cotton certification marks a significant development in the new regulations 2025, including expanded OEKO-TEX Eco Passport and tightened bisphenol A (BPA) restrictions in the OEKO-TEX Standard 100.
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Standard 100: New organic cotton rule and BPA limit value
As of 1 April, “GMO-free” or “organic” cotton claims will be excluded within the scope of OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification. Certification for organic cotton will be conducted under OEKO-TEX Organic Cotton to ensure better control against fraudulent practices in this sector.
It should be noted that this change is specific to cotton; other organic fibres such as hemp, linen or wool are not impacted by this update.
Moreover, the permissible limit for BPA—a chemical commonly detected in textiles in direct contact with skin has been reduced from 100mg/kg to 10mg/kg. This decision aligns with the classification of BPA as an endocrine disruptor by endocrinologists and the World Health Organization.
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By GlobalDataLeather Standard: Ahead of Europe’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR)
In anticipation of Europe’s Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), OEKO-TEX is leading the charge on leather supply chain transparency. The Leather Standard now mandates proof of origin for hides and leather materials from cattle and calves, ensuring compliance ahead of the EUDR’s implementation.
Although initially set for enforcement at the end of 2024, implementation of EUDR was deferred until November 2025.
Made in Green: Adding organic cotton certification option
The Made in Green label now includes OEKO-TEX Organic Cotton certification, allowing companies to leverage both traceability and safe production practices from farm to final product.
STeP: Enhanced ZDHC cooperation boosting sustainability in textiles and leather
Furthermore, OEKO-TEX is strengthening its alliance with the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals (ZDHC) Foundation to enhance environmental performance in textiles, apparel, footwear, and leather industries by aligning guidelines and collaborative solutions. STeP certificate holders can now engage in the ZDHC Supplier to Zero Programme.
Eco Passport: Expanding scope and highlighting biodegradability
In an ambitious extension of its Eco Passport certification, OEKO-TEX is broadening its scope to include commodity and maintenance chemicals, thus enhancing oversight at the outset of supply chains. The focus on biodegradability is also intensified; certified products such as surfactants and softeners must now provide verifiable evidence of biodegradability.
This expansion focuses on phasing out harmful substances sooner, improving worker safety, and prioritizing environmental protection. Second-life commodity chemicals will undergo more frequent quality testing.
Eco Passport clients can highlight the biodegradability of their chemical products on certificates.
OEKO-TEX emphasises biodegradability as a crucial factor in sustainable textile and leather production, with greater impact when integrated early in the supply chain.
Certified surfactants, softeners, or complexing agents must demonstrate biodegradability, verified by an OEKO-TEX institute or an approved third party.
Existing certified products in these categories will have a one-year transition period to meet the new requirements.
