Tanning

Tanning has been practised since the early Middle Ages, when animal hides were processed into clothing. It remains the most essential step in leather production and plays a key role in preserving sheep, cow, and alpaca hides. This page offers insight into the modern tanning process.

During tanning, various tanning agents are used to preserve animal hides. The process stabilises the proteins in the hide, making it durable and supple. There are many types of tanning agents, which are generally divided into chemical and vegetable-based (vegetable or "vegetal") tanning agents. In principle, every plant contains tanning substances – but in very different concentrations. Chemically produced tanning agents mimic natural ones and make hides significantly more durable than plant-based alternatives.

Relugan Tanning

The tanning agent “Relugan GT 50” is a glutaraldehyde-based agent developed by two American researchers. Its key features are permanent washability and sweat resistance. It softens, adds fullness, and stabilises the wool fibres. Our suppliers have primarily used Relugan tanning for lambskins that need to be especially fluffy, soft, and durable. It also makes the leather supple while enhancing the wool’s structure – ideal for medical and care applications, such as baby sheepskins, mattress pads, or seat covers.

Modern Tanning with Eco-Tanning

Traditional tanning methods like Relugan tanning are gradually being phased out due to their environmental impact. As sustainable leather tanning techniques become more important, our suppliers have shifted to modern eco-tanning processes.

Eco-Tanning is a modern umbrella term for environmentally friendly tanning methods and offers a sustainable alternative to conventional techniques. In addition to plant-based agents, it also includes other eco-friendly substances such as synthetic tanning agents free from heavy metals or alternative materials. The focus is on making the entire tanning process as sustainable as possible – from material selection to optimising energy and water usage.

Fellhof and OEKO-TEX®: For lambskin products free of harmful substances

Many of Fellhof’s sheepskin products – especially from our baby and healthcare range – are OEKO-TEX® certified. Clean tanning processes and non-toxic tanning agents are essential requirements for our products to meet these high certification standards.

Chrome Tanning (primarily for Cowhides):

Chrome tanning is one of the most widely used methods in leather production and is primarily applied to cowhide and bovine leather. It has been used successfully for over 100 years, and approximately 85% of leather worldwide is tanned using this method. Chrome tanning is chosen when durability is essential – such as for shoes, bags, or decorative cowhides.

Is Chrome Dangerous?

Not all chrome is the same – and that’s where confusion often starts. Chrome tanning uses trivalent chromium (Chromium III), which is safe and fully compliant with the highest environmental and safety standards.

Although the word “chrome” may sound concerning, chromium is actually an essential trace mineral involved in fat and glucose metabolism in humans, animals, and plants.

The real danger lies not in Chromium III but in hexavalent chromium (Chromium VI), which is toxic and strictly regulated. A careful tanning process with professional washing steps is essential to avoid Chromium VI residues in leather. That’s why our products undergo rigorous testing to ensure safety and quality.

LWG-Certified: Cowhides and Outdoor Footwear

Our producers of outdoor shoes and cowhides are certified by the Leather Working Group (LWG). Through its auditing standards, the LWG promotes transparency and accountability across the leather supply chain.

Eco-Friendly Tanning Agents and Clean Wastewater

One key aspect of the tanning process is water treatment. Tanneries are subject to strict regulations to protect the environment: most tanning liquids are recycled, and all wastewater is thoroughly treated in tightly controlled purification facilities. The use of synthetic tanning agents is considered ecologically safe.

The tanning agents used in most of our products come from BASF – the world’s largest chemical company, headquartered in Germany. These agents are safe, environmentally responsible, and fully compliant with EU regulations, including REACH standards. 

Quality That Convinces – Responsibility That Connects

At Fellhof, quality, safety, and environmental responsibility always come first – whether it’s Eco-Tanning, Relugan tanning, or chrome tanning. With passion and dedication, we invest significant time and resources each year to uphold the highest standards and earn our customers’ trust. This commitment is what makes Fellhof a truly reliable partner for retailers and end customers alike – defined by professionalism and uncompromising quality.