OEKO-TEX® & Masters of Flax Fibre™: What Our Certifications Mean

What you sleep in matters. Bedding sits against your skin for hours every night, yet most people rarely stop to consider how textiles are grown, processed, and finished-or what might remain in the fabric itself.

At The Modern Dane, we believe peace of mind comes from transparency. That's why we focus on two independent certifications that address the things that matter most: material safety and responsible European sourcing.

Below is a simple guide to what those certifications mean-and why they matter.

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OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 Class I

Independently tested for harmful substances

The OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is one of the world's most widely recognized textile safety certifications. It verifies that a finished textile product has been tested for a comprehensive list of substances known or suspected to be harmful to human health.

Importantly, testing applies to every component of the product-not just the fabric itself. This includes sewing threads, buttons, zippers, labels, and trims.

What does "Class I" mean?

OEKO-TEX® certifications are divided into product classes. Class I is the most stringent level and is the only class deemed suitable for babies and young children.

What is tested?

Certified products are tested by independent, accredited OEKO-TEX® laboratories for:

• Legally restricted substances such as formaldehyde, heavy metals, and certain dyes

• Chemicals that may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions

• Substances not yet legally regulated but known to be potentially harmful

• Skin-friendly pH levels and color fastness, ensuring dyes don't migrate onto the body

In short: OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 Class I certification provides assurance that the finished product is safe for direct skin contact, even for the most sensitive users.

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Masters of Flax Fibre™

Traceable European flax, responsibly grown

The Masters of Flax Fibre certification focuses on where flax is grown and how it is cultivated.

This certification guarantees that the flax used in your bedding is:

• Grown exclusively in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands

• Fully traceable from farm to fiber

• Produced under strict agricultural and labor standards

These regions-often referred to as the European Flax Belt-are the natural home of high-quality flax. The climate and soil conditions allow flax to grow with natural rainfall, without artificial irrigation.

Why European flax matters

Flax grown in this region:

• Produces long, strong fibers, resulting in linen that is softer, smoother, and more durable

• Requires fewer agricultural inputs than many other textile crops

• Is harvested without defoliants, preserving fiber integrity and soil health

Fiber extraction (scutching) is a fully mechanical process, meaning no chemical solvents are used to separate the fiber from the stem.

Social responsibility

Masters of Flax Fibre™ certification also requires compliance with International Labour Organization (ILO) standards, ensuring responsible labor practices throughout the supply chain.

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Why We Focus on These Two Certifications

Rather than stacking labels, we prioritize certifications that address the two questions customers ask most often:

1. Is this safe to sleep in?
   Answered by OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 Class I

2. Where does the material come from, and how is it grown?
   Answered by Masters of Flax Fibre™

Together, these certifications offer clear, independent verification of:

• Material safety

• European provenance

• Responsible agricultural and manufacturing practices

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Our Commitment

Every piece of The Modern Dane bedding is:

• Made from traceable European flax

• Independently tested for harmful substances

• Crafted in Portugal by experienced textile partners

• Designed to be lived with, washed often, and enjoyed for years

If you ever have questions about our materials or certifications, just send us a note. We'd love to hear from you.

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Ready to explore European linen bedding?

Discover our full collection of European linen sheets and duvet cover sets, thoughtfully made for everyday comfort and peace of mind.