Dye chemistry determines what fibres can be dyed, colour fastness, sustainability claims, and cost. Buyers who understand the basics avoid common pitfalls when specifying colour or verifying certifications.
Reactive Dyes (Cotton, Rayon, Cellulosics)
- Best colour fastness for cotton
- GOTS-compliant (positive list dyes available)
- Requires salt during application
- Water-intensive (major sustainability concern)
Acid Dyes (Wool, Silk, Nylon)
- Standard for protein fibres and nylon
- Good colour fastness
- Lower environmental impact than reactive
Disperse Dyes (Polyester, Synthetic)
- Only viable option for polyester
- High temperature required
- Some restricted chemistries (AZO, heavy metals) โ must verify OEKO-TEX class
Natural Dyes
- Indigo (blue), madder (red), turmeric (yellow), pomegranate (yellow-brown)
- Premium eco-positioning
- Lower colour fastness than synthetics
- Higher cost, artisan-paced production
Colour Fastness Ratings (AATCC/ISO)
Grade 1 (poor) to Grade 5 (excellent):
- Wash fastness: 4+ acceptable for retail
- Rub fastness: 4+ acceptable
- Light fastness: 4+ for outdoor/window-facing
- Perspiration fastness: 4+ for skin-contact items
Certifications & Compliance
- OEKO-TEX Standard 100 (chemistry restrictions)
- GOTS (restricts to positive-list dyes)
- bluesign (broader environmental)
- ZDHC MRSL (manufacturing restricted substances)
About Blueridge Trade LLP
Blueridge Trade LLP operates a dual business model. Our textile division is a direct manufacturer โ we own and operate the production of our cashmere, Merino wool, silk, organic cotton, and blended fabric programmes, controlling quality from fibre sourcing through finishing. This vertical integration is what allows us to guarantee Grade A specifications and offer competitive private-label terms to international brands.
Beyond textiles, we operate as a trading and sourcing partner for industrial commodities (copper, aluminium, zinc, tin, tungsten scrap, activated carbon), botanicals and spices, export-grade packaging, and consumables. In these categories we leverage a vetted network of Indian producers rather than manufacturing in-house โ giving international buyers a single consolidated point of contact for both textile manufacturing and broader Indian sourcing requirements.