"Dear mom, please tell me that you've heard of OEKO-TEX at least once so far. You may often wonder why my skin is irritated and why I get allergies so easily. Well, I found the problem that was bothering me."
I'm sure that lately, everyone has heard at least once something about the subject of OEKO-TEX materials, especially you, like mom. But what exactly are they, what do they mean and how do they differ from other materials?
Well, you must know that it is related to the safety and health of the child, but at the same time to yours. Some fabrics frequently used in textile products can be harmful to the child because there is a high probability that they contain toxic substances that can cause different allergies.
What does OEKO-TEX mean?
OEKO-TEX identifies itself as an international certification system for materials and fabrics, the purpose of which is to ensure that textile products do not contain dangerous chemical substances and are safe for health, both for children and for adults.
The motto used by the founder of the International Association OEKO-TEX is "CONFIDENCE IN TEXTILES" which in translation means "trust in textiles"
But still, is this really how today's clothes have come to be? Or is your child so sensitive? Well, yes and……yes. The skin is a sensitive organ, but at the same time it is protective, being the largest and most widespread organ of the body. However, unfortunately the protection it can offer is limited considering the environmental toxins to which the little ones are exposed in everyday life.
For knitted clothes CLICK HERE
What are these dangerous substances?
Unfortunately, these chemicals are quite varied, and the body's response can differ from child to child (and of course from adult to adult). Through the association OEKO-TEX, these substances have been quantitatively limited or banned definitively.
- azo dyes , completely restricted (some azo dyes have the possibility to release aromatic amine, a substance known for its carcinogenic potential)
- formaldehyde , limited use (chemical substance emitted by some materials, which has the ability to cause different degrees of irritation to the skin and eyes)
- heavy metals , strict limitation (for example cadmium and lead which have toxic effects)
- phthalates , limited use (chemical substances, often used to make more flexible plastic materials)
- chlorinated organic compounds , restricted use (PVC and PVDC that can emit harmful organic compounds)
And so on Presentation photos, photo credit: Andreea Gutiu Photographer of newborns, babies, children, maternity
OEKO-TEX class 1 quality certified materials
The OEKO-TEX certifications are classified into 4 classes.
- Class 1 (the strictest class that includes all the items for your child or baby)
- Class 2 (articles in direct contact with the skin)
- Class 3 (products that are not in direct contact with the skin)
- Class 4 (materials for accessories)
The range of fabrics approved for class 1 by OEKO-TEX includes: cotton, wool, bamboo, microfiber and jersey.
The cotton
Class 1 fabrics do not refer only to children's clothes, but also to underwear, terry cloth items, bed linen, etc.
If your little one is still a baby, it is recommended that the material worn be 100% cotton because cotton is a natural and non-allergic fiber that will not cause irritation. Due to the unique nature of cotton, products made from it do not remove particles that could trigger asthma attacks or various allergies.
Besides that, cotton is a durable material, resistant over time, especially to wear and frequent washing.
The best types of 100% cotton: rib, interlock, smooth, french terry, terry.
Wool
Wool is also a natural fiber, which is suitable for thicker items such as sweaters and thicker clothes, due to its thermoregulating properties. It is a material that provides warmth but at the same time lets the skin breathe, according to personal needs. It is perfect for your child's cold season clothes, especially if he already goes to grade or school.
The bamboo
Although you may not hear about it too often, bamboo is used in this industry due to its hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties, thanks to it, the child's skin breathes easily and comfortably.
Microfiber
Often used for sports items, microfiber is a synthetic, light and durable material. If your child already practices a sport, some microfiber items would increase the lightness of the activity. With the OEKO-TEX label, each item is certified as safe.
Jersey
It is described as an elastic and comfortable material, perfect for the activities of the little ones in everyday life because it ensures freedom of movement, especially when it's time to play.
Each item that has the OEKO-TEX label on it gives the certainty that the item is safe and will not cause skin irritations and allergies to your child, expressed in a majority percentage. What you must remember is the fact that each child is a unique organism that responds differently when it comes to a response from the body, especially when the discussion turns to a possible allergy or irritation.
Why is it important to choose OEKO-TEX clothes for your child? Can you really feel the difference?
By choosing OEKO-TEX certified clothes for our children, we ensure that they benefit from numerous advantages and benefits that contribute to their health and happiness.
OEKO-TEX certified materials are tested and verified to be free of harmful chemicals or allergens, so that children's delicate skin is protected from irritation and allergies.
Clothes made from OEKO-TEX certified materials are designed to be soft, pleasant to the touch and comfortable for children's sensitive skin. These materials allow the skin to breathe, reducing the risk of overheating and discomfort.
The rigorous standards imposed by the OEKO-TEX certification guarantee that the clothes are durable over time and can withstand multiple washes without losing their original shape or color. Thus, they remain in good condition and can be worn by children for a longer period.
OEKO-TEX certified materials comply with strict environmental protection standards, being manufactured in a responsible and sustainable way. By choosing these clothes, we contribute to reducing the negative impact on the environment and promoting eco-friendly practices.
By choosing OEKO-TEX certified clothes, parents can be confident that they are giving their children the best and safest for their health. This peace of mind and the assurance that the little ones are protected every day is priceless and brings peace and joy to our hearts.
But in fact, the benefits of OEKO-TEX certified clothes go far beyond the material aspect. They represent a wise and responsible choice for our children, ensuring that we surround them with love and care in every aspect of their lives.