What Is the eco‑INSTITUT Label?
The eco-INSTITUT-Label is a German certification for low-emission, low-pollutant indoor products. A lab measures what the product releases into the air in a test chamber and, depending on the product, checks for pollutants like heavy metals and pesticides. It's used on mattresses, bedding, flooring and furniture, and lasts two years.
What eco-INSTITUT checks
- Emissions from the product in a test chamber, following ISO 16000
- Selected pollutants by product group, like heavy metals, pesticides and halogenated organic compounds
- Criteria set by an independent criteria committee
- A full reassessment every two years to keep the label
What eco-INSTITUT doesn’t cover
- Clothing. Its product groups are flooring, building products, mattresses, bedding, furniture and furnishings.
- Where the fiber came from or how it was farmed
- Working conditions in the factory
How to check a eco-INSTITUT certificate
Every labeled product carries its own certification number, and all certified products are listed in a public database.
- Find the number. It's printed with the eco-INSTITUT-Label on the product or packaging.
- Search it. Enter the certification number, product name or manufacturer in the eco-INSTITUT-Label database.
eco-INSTITUT questions
Does eco-INSTITUT test clothing?
Clothing isn't one of its product groups. For textiles, it shows up on bedding like duvets, pillows and toppers, and on mattresses, including latex ones.
What does eco-INSTITUT test for?
Mainly what a product releases into the air, measured in a test chamber under ISO 16000. Depending on the product, the lab also checks for pollutants like heavy metals and pesticides.
How long does an eco-INSTITUT label last?
Two years. It can be renewed for another two years after a new assessment.