Why FibreGuard upholstery fabrics are safe and non-toxic

As consumers, we are all becoming increasingly aware of the importance of sustainability. Today we're addressing a question that seems to be on everyone's lips these days: forever chemicals.

FibreGuard's furnishing fabrics are completely free of forever chemicals.

In this article we dive into what these chemicals are, and how we can guarantee that our products are free of them.

FibreGuard fabrics are free of PFAs/PFCs and Forever Chemicals

At FibreGuard, the safety of our customers is our top priority. That's why all our upholstery fabrics are free of perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS/PFCs): otherwise known as ‘forever chemicals’. By choosing FibreGuard, you can have peace of mind knowing that our fabrics are free from risks associated with chemicals like these.

The fact that all FibreGuard products are free of these hazardous chemicals is tightly linked to our STANDARD 100 certification.

Let’s dive into why.

STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® Certification

All our FibreGuard collections have received the STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification. This is a widely acknowledged testing and certification program that, through comprehensive laboratory testing, either prohibits or tightly controls the utilisation of potentially hazardous substances in textiles.

In general, the stringent guidelines for residues in textile materials not only result in reduced environmental impact but also contribute to improved well-being for both workers and consumers. In numerous instances, the limit values set by STANDARD 100 surpass both national and international standards. Consequently, the OEKO-TEX® initiative has adopted a proactive stance in the realm of consumer protection, striving to lead the way rather than relying solely on legislation.

What does that mean for our customers?

In a nutshell, this certification for FibreGuard upholstery is significant because it is a signal of quality, safety, environmental responsibility, and compliance with international standards, all of which are important factors for both producers and consumers.

Key facts:

• Fabrics with the STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification are also tested for Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) emissions. If you’d like to do a deep dive on the updated 2023 criteria for this certification, check out this in-depth overview.
• In addition, as of 2023, OEKO-TEX® has issued a general ban on the use of perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS/PFC) in textiles, leather and footwear for the STANDARD 100, LEATHER STANDARD and ECO PASSPORT certifications. Learn more about the new 2023 OEKO-TEX® regulations here.

Chemicals in the textiles industry stretches beyond the textiles themselves

You might have guessed by now that chemical use in the textiles industry is about much more than the final physical fabric products.

This is why we operate under a wide range of chemical-related eco standards to ensure our fabrics' safety and minimal impact on the environment. Our work in textiles sustainability extends beyond our physical fabrics and into the way we operate as a business.

• One of these standards is REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals). This European regulation ensures that chemicals used in textiles meet strict health and environmental requirements.
• We also hold an international standard for environmental management - the ISO 14001. This means that we monitor our mills’ compliance, empowering them to develop practical systems so that we can all manage our environmental responsibilities together.
• Operationally, we run our business guided by Quality Management, which concerns all topics related to Quality, Environment, Safety and Health and well-being (QESH).

Learn more about our sustainability commitment both at FibreGuard and in Bru Textiles, our larger group.

All our eco qualifications complement each other in a holistic way

We are a business that strives to be environmentally conscious, socially responsible and economically viable. We take pride in being able to achieve this through a combination of high standards and best practice across all areas of our company. Here are three ways in which we're using our sustainability credentials to their fullest:

1. Comprehensive Sustainability Coverage: By combining multiple eco-labels, we're demonstrating our adherence to a wider range of sustainability aspects. For example, a product certified for both organic materials and 1SO 14001 practices showcases a commitment to environmental and social sustainability.
2. Specific Focus Areas: Different eco-labels may have a specific focus, such as water conservation or reduced carbon footprint. Combining these labels helps us to highlight our strengths in different sustainability areas. This comprehensive approach enables consumers to make informed choices based on their sustainability preferences and objectives.
3. Third-Party Verification: Eco-labels provide independent verification of a product's sustainability claims. Combining multiple labels from reputable certification bodies adds credibility to the overall sustainability profile of FIbreGuard's upholstery fabrics. The presence of multiple eco-labels demonstrates how our fabric collections have undergone rigorous evaluation against various sustainability criteria.

No harmful chemicals needed: even to clean our upholstery!

When it comes to cleaning our FibreGuard fabrics, there's no need to reach for bleach or other harmful chemicals. In fact: we expressly ask you to not use bleach or any kind of household fabric cleaner on FibreGuard fabrics.

Why is this?

You can maintain the beauty of your FibreGuard upholstery fabrics by cleaning them with water and, if necessary, a white bar of mild household soap. You can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you've taken tangible environmental action by using eco-friendly cleaning products.

Yes, it’s a small step, but every little helps!

All FibreGuard fabrics are free of harmful chemicals

When it comes to upholstery fabrics, FibreGuard is the clear choice for health-conscious consumers.

Our fabrics are free of PFAs and forever chemicals, ensuring you and your loved ones are safe from potential harm. With our STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification, you can trust that our fabrics have been rigorously tested for safety and non-toxicity.

We go above and beyond to meet the highest eco standards, such as REACH and ISO 14001, showcasing our dedication to creating products that are both safe and environmentally responsible.

So, whether you're looking to refresh your home interiors, or you're a professional working in contract setting fit-outs, FibreGuard upholstery fabrics will not only beautify your surroundings but also provide peace of mind.

Learn more about our sustainability commitment both at FibreGuard and in Bru Textiles, our larger group.