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Writer's pictureCaterina Sullivan

OEKO-TEX Certified Yarns: What it Means and Why it Matters


Environmentally-friendly eco yarns

The materials we use in our crafting journey hold incredible significance. At Fancy Yarns Australia, sustainability and ethical practices are at the core of what we do, which is why we’re passionate about providing products that align with these values.


If you’ve browsed through our yarn collection, you may have noticed that some of them boast OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification... But what exactly does that mean?


Let’s dive into what OEKO-TEX certification is, what to look for and the many benefits it offers to you as a consumer and to our planet.


What Is OEKO-TEX Certification?


The OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is a globally recognised certification that ensures textiles and textile products are tested for harmful substances. When a product carries the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 label, it means that every component - fibres, dyes, threads and even buttons - has been rigorously tested for substances that could be harmful to human health. This includes harmful chemicals like pesticides, heavy metals, formaldehyde and banned dyes.


The certification process isn’t limited to the end product; it covers every stage of production, from raw materials to final touches. In short, when you see the OEKO-TEX label, you can trust that the product is safe for you, your family and even your littlest loved ones.


What Does OEKO-TEX Certification Test For?


OEKO-TEX certification goes beyond what’s required by national or international legislation. It tests for hundreds of substances, including:

  1. Harmful Chemicals: Formaldehyde, heavy metals like lead and mercury and pesticides.

  2. Allergens: Dyes and chemicals that can trigger allergic reactions or irritations.

  3. Prohibited Substances: Chemicals banned by law, such as certain azo dyes and carcinogenic dyes.

  4. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Substances that can release gases harmful to health or the environment.


The certification is constantly updated to reflect the latest scientific research and regulatory changes, ensuring the highest standard of safety.


OEKO-TEX Certification

What to Look for in OEKO-TEX Certified Products


When shopping for OEKO-TEX certified products, here’s what you need to keep in mind:

  1. The Label: Look for the “OEKO-TEX Standard 100” label on the product or packaging. This confirms that the product has been independently tested and certified.

  2. Product Class: OEKO-TEX certification covers different product classes based on how close the product will come into contact with the skin. For instance:

    • Class I: Products for babies and toddlers, such as baby blankets or baby yarn, have the strictest standards.

    • Class II: Products that come into direct contact with the skin, like clothing.

    • Class III: Items that don’t touch the skin directly, such as jackets or decorative items.

    • Class IV: Home textiles and other decoration materials, such as tablecloths or curtains.

  3. Certification Details: Many brands provide certification numbers that can be verified online for added transparency.


By understanding these details, you can make more informed purchasing decisions and ensure that the products you bring into your home meet the highest safety standards.


Why Does OEKO-TEX Certification Matter?


1. Safety for You and Your Family

When you’re crafting with OEKO-TEX certified yarns, you can rest easy knowing that harmful substances won’t come into contact with your skin or with the people wearing or using your finished projects. This is especially important for baby items, where sensitive skin needs extra protection.

2. Trust in Quality

OEKO-TEX certification is a mark of quality. It shows that the manufacturer has taken extra steps to ensure the safety and integrity of their products. This commitment to quality is something we value deeply at Fancy Yarns Australia.

3. Supporting Sustainable Practices

The certification process encourages manufacturers to adopt more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. OEKO-TEX certified products often come from companies that prioritise resource conservation, ethical labor practices and responsible production.

4. Reducing Allergies and Irritations

For those with sensitive skin or allergies, OEKO-TEX certified products are a game-changer. They’re free from harsh chemicals and dyes that can irritate the skin, making them ideal for people of all ages.

5. Environmental Benefits

OEKO-TEX certification also benefits the planet. By reducing harmful substances in production, it minimises the environmental footprint of textiles. This supports our mission of sustainability, helping us craft a greener, more mindful future.

OEKO-Tex Certified Knits

The Benefits of Using OEKO-TEX Certified Yarn in Yarn Crafts


As a crafter, the materials you choose matter just as much as the creativity you put into your projects. Here’s why using OEKO-TEX certified yarn in your knitting, crocheting, weaving and fibre arts projects makes such a difference:

  • Peace of Mind: Whether you’re making a baby blanket or a sweater for yourself, you know the yarn is free of harmful substances.

  • Enhanced Comfort: Certified yarns are soft and gentle, ensuring that your finished projects feel as good as they look.

  • Eco-Friendly Choice: By opting for OEKO-TEX certified yarns, you’re supporting sustainable practices and reducing your crafting impact on the planet.

  • Versatility: From cozy garments to homewares, OEKO-TEX yarns can be used for a wide variety of projects, offering both safety and style.


Our Commitment to OEKO-TEX Certified Yarns


At Fancy Yarns Australia, we believe in providing yarns that are not only beautiful but also safe and sustainable. Many of the yarns we stock are OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, ensuring that you can craft with confidence. From Milo, our mercerised cotton yarn, to Sugar, spun from sustainable sugarcane fibres, we prioritise offering products that align with your values as a crafter.


We are committed to doing our part to promote mindful crafting. By choosing OEKO-TEX certified yarns, you’re not just making something beautiful; you’re contributing to a healthier, more sustainable future for both people and the planet.


Next time you shop for yarn, take a moment to look for the OEKO-TEX label. It’s a small step with a big impact on your projects, your health and our planet.


Explore Our OEKO-TEX Certified Yarns Today


Ready to start crafting with confidence? Check out our collection of OEKO-TEX certified yarns at Fancy Yarns Australia and discover the perfect materials for your next mindful project.

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