The popularity of organic foods is increasing and corresponding consumer demand is perking up in the textile industry.
Increasing consumer concerns about chemical toxicity in their personal environments has led to a call for "healthy" textiles. While many clothing, bedding, and upholstery brands currently use organic fibers, the process to manufacture textiles often requires treatments than can leave chemical residue on the finished product. Many consumers are demanding healthier textiles that take the entire production process into account.
In Europe, the demand for such products is well established. Many brands meet an international standard, the Oeko-Tex Standard 100, which guarantees manufactured products are free of substances harmful to humans. Oeko-Tex is a highly recognized eco-label and consumers know that products bearing the Oeko-Tex stamp are certified to be human-friendly.
In North America and Asia, interest in the Oeko-Tex certification is rising. So far, about 30 companies in North America have secured the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification. Certified companies include suppliers to the automotive, bedding, medical, and apparel industries including several well-known clothing brands:
Malden Mills recently secured certification for its Polartec fabrics used in high performance activewear.
Canadian T-shirt maker Gildan received certification in 2004 -- the first company in its industry to do so.
Hanna Andersson, the children's clothing maker, touts the Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certification in its catalog.
