Does OEKO-TEX® allow PFAS in certified products?
OEKO-TEX® bans the intentional use of PFAS in textiles, leather, apparel and footwear. This ban affects all OEKO-TEX® certificates.
OEKO-TEX® limit values are updated regularly for compliance with the latest international regulations.
Since October 2025, the French PFAS requirements have been integrated into OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100. As of January 1, 2026, certified products must comply with:
- A limit of 25 ppb for each regulated PFAS substance
- A defined limit for the sum of regulated PFAS
- Requirements for total fluorine (TF)
PFAS comprise several thousand substances, and it is not technically possible to identify and quantify every individual compound. OEKO-TEX® therefore tests the PFAS relevant to textiles that are defined in the testing standard EN 17681-1:2025. The French Ministry has confirmed that this standard is used for official product testing.
Due to legislation in California, the total fluorine limit is being reduced from 100 ppm to 50 ppm in 2026.
How does OEKO-TEX® test for PFAS?
- Separate testing for all legally restricted PFAS
- Ensures OEKO-TEX® certified products are compliant with global laws (including those in EU and US) - Total fluorine testing (replaces previous EOF method and includes TOF)
- Limit value is 100 mg/kg
Certification to OEKO-TEX® standards mean the product has been tested for the listed substances. OEKO-TEX® does NOT certify the product as "PFAS-free".
