Tested quality for every requirement.

Description:
To protect the product or minimize odor, textiles are finished with antibacterial agents. The antibacterial effect can prevent bacteria multiplying on or in the product and being distributed further by it.

To test:
The test sample is tested by the Hohenstein Laboratories in accordance with the standard DIN EN ISO 20743 "Textiles – Determination of antibacterial activity of textile products" for which there is accreditation with the DAkkS. The quality label confirms that, in the preparation for the standard test, the test sample demonstrates antibacterial activity in response to the test germs Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 and Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 4352. The quality label is subject to a test report with detailed results.

Validity:
1 year

Products:

• Textiles with an anti-microbial active finish (biocide)

Description:
To protect the product or minimize odor, surfaces and articles for domestic use are finished with antibacterial agents. The antibacterial effect can prevent bacteria multiplying on the product and being distributed further by it.

To test:
The test sample is tested by the Hohenstein Laboratories in accordance with the standard ISO 22196 "Plastics – Measurement of antibacterial activity on plastics surfaces" for which there is accreditation with the DAkkS. The quality label confirms that, in the preparation for the standard test, the test sample demonstrates antibacterial activity in response to the test germs Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 and Escherichia coli ATCC 8739. The quality label is subject to a test report with detailed results.

Validity:
1 year

Products:

• Surfaces and articles for domestic use 
• Surfaces and articles for domestic use with an active antibacterial finish (biocide)

Description:
Healthy human skin is heavily populated with micro-organisms which, as a natural component of the skin, perform an important barrier function for the skin. If the antibacterial textiles are too effective, critics see a possible negative effect on this healthy human skin flora.

To test:
The practically oriented test is based on a standardized model of the human skin flora which simulates germ population, topography and environmental properties of healthy skin. To do this, the model uses germ types from the endogenous micro flora of the human epidermis. The effect of the test material on these germs is quantified during a wearing simulation on the artificial skin/skin flora over a contact period of 18 hours and then evaluated against internal controls or an identical material without antimicrobial finish. If no significant reduction in the number of germs occurs within the wear/exposure time, the textile is considered to be "safe" with regard to the effects on human skin flora.

The existence of supplementary testing for antibacterial effectiveness according to DIN EN ISO 20743 is a prerequisite for obtaining the label.

Validity:
1 year

Products:

• Clothing with antimicrobial finish 
• Textiles worn close to the body
• Sports clothing, underwear, wellness and functional textiles
• Textiles for sensitive persons such as those with allergies, small children, disabled and elderly persons

Description:
To protect the product from decomposition or minimize odor, textiles or articles for domestic use are finished with antimicrobial agents. The antimicrobial effect can prevent germs (bacteria, mold or viruses) that populate the product from multiplying and being distributed further by it.

Validity:
1 year

Products:

• Products with silver finish
• Products with an antimicrobial active finish (biocide)

To test:
The term antimicrobial is used if at least two of the three parameters (antibacterial/antimycotic/antiviral) are achieved. The quality label is based on one or more test reports with detailed results.

Antibacterial:
Test as per the standard DIN EN ISO 20743 "Textiles – Determination of antibacterial activity of textile products" with the test germs Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 and also Klebsiella pneumoniae ATCC 4352 or standard ISO 22196 "Plastics - Measurement of antibacterial activity on plastics and other non-porous surfaces" with the test germs Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 and Escherichia coli ATCC 8739. The antibacterial activity of the test sample must be significant or strong against both test germs.

Antimycotic:
Test as per standard DIN EN 14119 "Testing of textiles - Evaluation of the action of microfungi, process B2" or standard EN ISO 846 "Plastics -- Evaluation of the action of microorganisms on plastics, process B", each with the test germs Aspergillus niger ATCC 6275 and Chaetomium globosum ATCC 6205. The prevention of fungal growth must ≥50 % for both test germs.

Antiviral:
Test developed by Hohenstein in the suspension test (dependent on standards ISO 18184, DIN EN ISO 20743 or ISO 22196) with the non-enveloped test virus bacteriophage MS2 (ATCC 15597-B1) and a contact time of 18-24 hours. The antiviral activity of the test sample must be ≥4 log levels (significant).

The Hohenstein Laboratories have DAkkS accreditation for all above tests.

Description:
Test of impermeability of bedding/casing to mite feces - allergens with real mite feces.

To test:
The impermeability of bedding or casings to mite feces - allergens are tested with a special load test stand. To do this, the test samples are applied with a defined mite feces - allergen quantity and a one-time load is simulated through pressure. The mite feces allergen quantity which was able to penetrate through the test sample is then determined by means of an Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). This test setup provides information about the impermeability of the test sample and thus the suitability of the product for persons with allergies. The quality label is subject to a test report with detailed results.

Validity:
1 year

Products:

• Bedding materials
• Casings

Description:
The long-term test assesses the killing effect of textile finishes on the development of a population of house dust mites.

To test:
The review of effectiveness of textiles and finishes against house dust mites is carried out in accordance with standard NF G39-011. Dust mites (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinusauf) are applied to the test sample and controls and the quantity is determined after one week and after two population cycles (= 6 weeks) under optimum conditions. The number of living mites is determined with a hand count with the stereomagnifying glass.

For test samples that do not permit a hand count due to their structure, the allergen content (mite feces allergen Der p1) is determined after 6 weeks. The quality label confirms that the mite count or allergen content in the test sample has been reduced by at least 90 % in comparison to the control material. The quality label is subject to a test report with detailed results.

Validity:
1 year

Products:

• Textiles finished with agents that are directed against house dust mites.
• Chemicals for spray application intended to kill house dust mites.

Description:
The test evaluates the reduction characteristic of clothing on sweat odors in a real wearing situation. The test can be conducted with different variants depending on the task.

To test:
The practical experiment can prove the anti-sweat-odor effect from the viewpoint of the end user. The test samples are worn by a group of participants in the specific application type (sport, work). The strength of sweat odor on the samples is then assessed by trained odor testers and compared with the reference material with the help of an odor sampler. The quality label confirms that the reduction in sweat odor during a wearer trial could be proven when compared to a control material. The quality label is based on a test report with detailed results.

Validity:
1 year

Products:

• Sport and outdoor clothing
• Workwear
• Body-contact clothing
• Home textiles / seating furniture

Description:
Assessment of the aerobic degradability of textile products over a defined test period by means of a controlled earth trench. Subsequent assessment of environmental compatibility through ecotoxicological investigations or chemical analysis (heavy metals).

To test:
The tests take place under
a) application-oriented outdoor conditions or
b) standardized laboratory conditions.

The tests are based on European and international standards that are used to test the decomposition behavior of materials after being buried in the earth (e.g. EN ISO 11721, EN ISO 846 and DIN EN 13432).

Hohenstein tests the loss in mass after predefined excavation times and makes a visual assessment of the material surface. As standard, the ecotoxicological harmlessness is determined using an agro-toxicological test. In addition, further ecotoxicological tests and/or a heavy metal investigation of the soil samples can be carried out.

Validity:
1 year

Products:

• Yarns, fibers, textile fabrics, clothing
• Technical textiles e.g. for the automobile industry
• Finished textiles
• Recycled textiles

Description:
The pressure profile for compression stockings can be gradually increasing, gradually decreasing or remain constant. The definition of pressure and pressure profile is based on their characteristics and is the responsibility of the manufacturer. The Hohenstein Institutes test and confirm the manufacturer's data if related to this.

To test:
Within the compression test, the pressure and pressure profile of compression stockings is measured using the test device HOSY. To do this, a sock is fixed in the measuring device and stretched to the specified extent. The compression is calculated from the determined force values that the textile exerts. If requested, the result is listed in the Hohenstein Quality Label "Compression and Pressure Profile".

Validity:
1 year

Products:

• Sports socks
• Travel socks
• Wellness socks

Description:
The fit test assesses the fit of clothing. The fit is tested to see whether it corresponds to the desired ready-made size and whether the client’s product description is fulfilled.

To test:
The assessment of the fit is carried out by experienced clothing engineers / technicians. 
The fit is tested with the help of fit models whose body measurements correspond to the Size Germany series measurement or the body measurements made available by the client. During the examination, it is observed that the movement capacity as well as the functionality of the textile are optimally designed for the test subject. Furthermore, the fit should also fulfil the target group’s product description.

Validity:
1 year

Products:
All types of clothing

Description:
Neutral testing and assessment of innovative technologies in the textile branch in order to provide neutral support to the market launch and position of a technology leader.

The physical "cooling effect" of textile materials is measured with the WATson and is a measure of the evaporative cooling of a textile during sports activities (liquid sweat).

To test:
The measurement is carried out with the heat generation tester (WATson) in accordance with a validated Hohenstein method. In doing this, the physical evaporative cooling performance of sweat/water is measured in watts for the sample made available as the fabric layer. The physical cooling effect of different materials can be assessed in a comparative way and evaluated using the maximum achieved cooling performance for the current technology leader.

Validity:
1 year

Products:

• Functional underwear
• Sportswear
• Cooling towels

Description:
The water vapor resistance ("thermo-regulation model") is measured using the Skin Model and is a measure of the transport of (vaporous) sweat through the textile.

To test:
The measurement is taken using the thermo-regulation model for human skin (Skin Model) in accordance with ISO 11092. In doing this, the water vapor resistance of the sample made available as the fabric layer is measured. The basic investigations enable the assessment of the "breathability activity" of the different materials both as an absolute value and as a comparative value.

Validity:
1 year

Products:
All materials that come into direct contact with the body

• Finished or laminated textiles for outdoor clothing
• Knitwear for functional wear and everyday wear, pullovers, workwear and protective clothing
• Textiles for outerwear and bedding
• Mattresses and mattress protectors (casings)
• Duvets and pillows
• Vehicle seats

Description:
The physiological wear comfort of clothing is determined, on the one hand, through the heat and moisture management, which is measured with the Hohenstein Skin Model and, on the other hand, through the skin sensorial properties. The sensitivity is quantified by means of skin sensory tests which involve a textile coming into contact with the skin. The measurement results according to laboratory apparatus represent these sensitivities in figures, which can then be assessed both absolutely and comparatively.

To test:
The Hohenstein Skin Model for human skin (Skin Model; standardised as per DIN EN ISO 11092) determines the heat and moisture transport processes. Different strengths of sweat are simulated and corresponding parameters are defined (e.g. heat isolation, drying time). Different activity levels of the wearer and thus different sweat scenarios are taken into account and defined in accordance with corresponding parameters. The skin sensorial properties of a textile are determined with five different measuring values. For example, the test determines whether the tested textile quickly draws away sweat from the skin and feels pleasant to the skin. With the help of the test results for heat and moisture management and the skin sensory parameters, the wear comfort rating of the tested clothing can be calculated. The parameters and their weightings can be adjusted depending on the range of utility of the textile. Thus different evaluation formulae are used for sportswear than for everyday clothing.

Validity:
1 years

Products:

• Knitwear for functional wear and underwear, work and protective clothing, pullovers, T-shirts
• Woven fabrics for work, protective and outerwear
• Socks

Description:

With this standard, the Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of textile materials or similar (e.g. films) is determined in dry and new condition without the strain in usage.

The UPF allows an assessment of the UV protection offered by textiles under consideration of the spectral composition of the sunlight and the skin sensitivity of human beings.

Testing:

The AATCC STANDARD is based on the solar spectrum of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

The textiles are tested in dry and new condition. 

The determination of the UPF of the submitted material in unused, dry condition is approved by the authorities as evidence of UV protection.

Validity period:

1 year

Materials for:

• clothing textiles
• shading textiles, e.g. parasols, awnings, roller blinds etc. (modified scope)
• films (modified scope)

Description:

With this standard, the Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of textile materials or similar (e.g. films) is determined in dry and new condition without the strain in usage.

The UPF allows an assessment of the UV protection offered by textiles under consideration of the spectral composition of the sunlight and the skin sensitivity of human beings.

Testing:

The Australian/New Zealand Standard (AS/NZS) is based on the solar spectrum of Melbourne, Australia.

The whole standard is applicable for clothing. Advertisement according to the standard refers to the material testing according to appendix A and point 5. Additionally, the manufacturer is responsible for the compliance with all other requirements (point 4. Body Coverage and point 6. Marking). These other requirements are not subject to the test program of the Hohenstein Quality Label.

The textiles are tested in dry and new condition. The UV-protective properties of the tested fabric are described with "Minimum" (UPF 15), "Good" (UPF 30) or "Excellent" (UPF 50 and UPF 50+ respectively) in accordance with the resultant UPF value.

The determination of the UPF of the submitted material in unused, dry condition is approved by the authorities as evidence of UV protection.

Validity period:

1 year

Materials for:

• clothing textiles
• shading textiles, e.g. parasols, awnings, roller blinds etc. (modified scope)
• films (modified scope)

Description:

With this standard, the Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of textile materials or similar (e.g. films) is determined in dry and new condition without the strain in usage.

The UPF allows an assessment of the UV protection offered by textiles under consideration of the spectral composition of the sunlight and the skin sensitivity of human beings.

Testing:

The European Standard (DIN EN) is based on the solar spectrum of Albuquerque (USA), which is approximate to the solar spectrum of South Europe.

The standard is primary applicable for clothing. Advertisement according to the standard only refers to material testing. The textiles are tested in dry and new condition. In accordance with the resultant UPF value, the UV-protective properties of the tested fabric are assessed according to the classification based on AS/NZS 4399, point 5. This means "Minimum" (UPF 15), "Good" (UPF 30) or "Excellent" (UPF 50 and UPF 50+ respectively)

DIN EN 13758-2 is not subject to the test program of the Hohenstein Quality Label. Therefore, these requirements are not taken in consideration for granting the Hohenstein Quality Label. The manufacturer is responsible for seeing that the design meets all consumer protective requirements.

The determination of the UPF of the submitted material in unused, dry condition is approved by the authorities as evidence of UV protection.

Validity period:

1 year

Materials for:

• clothing textiles
• shading textiles, e.g. parasols, awnings, roller blinds etc. (modified scope)
• films (modified scope)