Threading Your Way Through
the Labeling Requirements
Under the Textile and Wool Acts
Produced
in cooperation with the
American Apparel
Manufacturers Association
Introduction
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has prepared this guide to help you comply with
federal labeling requirements for textile, wool and fur products. The law requires that
most textile and wool products have a label listing: the fiber content, the country of
origin, and the identity of the manufacturer or another business responsible for marketing
or handling the item.1 Labels for fur products are
required under a separate statute and rule.2 The labeling requirements for fur
are summarized later in this document. Citations to the statutes and the rules are found
in the endnotes.
Care labels for wearing apparel are required under another FTC rule,3 and information about care labels is found in other
FTC publications. For business: Writing a Care Label: How to
Comply with the Amended Law.
Who's
Covered And Who's Not
If you manufacture, import, sell, offer to sell, distribute, or advertise products
covered by the Textile and Wool Acts, you must comply with the
labeling requirements.
You are exempt if you are:4
- A common carrier or contract carrier shipping or delivering textile products in the
ordinary course of business;
- A processor or finisher working under contract to a manufacturer (unless you change the
fiber content contrary to the terms of the contract);
- A manufacturer or seller of textile products for export only; or
- An advertising agency or publisher disseminating ads or promotional material about
textile products.
The law requires that most textile and wool products have a label listing:
- Fiber Content
- Country of Origin
- Manufacturer or Dealer Identity
Textile Products:
What's Covered And What's Not
In general, most clothing and textile products commonly used in a household are covered
by the labeling requirements. Such items include:5
Clothing
(except for hats and shoessee Not
Covered) |
Bats or batting |
Handkerchiefs |
Flags
with heading or more than 216 sq. inches in size
|
Scarfs |
Cushions |
Bedding
sheets, covers, blankets, comforters, pillows, pillowcases, quilts, bedspreads, and
pads (but not outer coverings for mattresses or box springs) |
All fibers, yarns and fabrics
(except packaging ribbons)
|
Curtains and casements
|
Furniture slip covers and other furniture covers
|
Draperies |
Afghans and throws
|
Tablecloths, napkins, and doilies
|
Sleeping bags |
Floor coveringsrugs, carpets, mats
|
Antimacassars and tidies (doilies) |
Towels, washcloths, and dishcloths
|
Hammocks |
Ironing board covers and pads |
Dresser and other furniture scarfs
|
Umbrellas and parasols
|
|
The labeling requirements do not apply until the products are ready for
sale to consumers. Items shipped or delivered in an intermediate stage of production, and
not labeled with the required information, must include an invoice disclosing the fiber,
country of origin, manufacturer or dealer identity, and the name and address of the person
or company issuing the invoice.6 If the
manufacturing or processing of the products is substantially complete, they are considered
to be ready for sale to consumers. Even if small details have not been finishedsuch
as hemming, cuffing, or attaching buttons to garmentsthe products must be labeled.
The following items are not covered by the
labeling requirements:7
Upholstery or mattress stuffing
(unless its reusedthen the label must say that it contains reused
stuffing) |
Bandages, surgical dressings, and other products subject to
the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act9 |
Outer coverings of upholstered furniture, mattresses, and box
springs |
Waste materials not used in a textile product
|
Linings, interlinings, filling, or padding used for
structural purposes
However, if they are used for warmth, the fiber must be
disclosed, (see Linings and
interlinings). In addition, if you make any statement about the fiber content
of linings, interlinings, filling, or padding, they are no longer exempt.
|
Shoes, overshoes, boots, slippers and all outer footwear.
But, socks and hosiery are covered; in addition,
slippers made of wool are covered under The Wool Rules
(see Wool Products) |
Stiffenings, trimmings, facings, or interfacings
(see Trimmings for more explanation of
"trimmings") |
Headwear
(hats, caps or anything worn exclusively on the head). But, a wool
hat is covered under The Wool Rules (see Wool
Products) |
Backings of carpets or rugs and paddings or cushions to be
used under carpets, rugs, or other floor coverings8 |
Textiles used in: handbags or luggage10,
brushes, lampshades, toys, feminine hygiene products, adhesive tapes and adhesive sheets,
cleaning cloths impregnated with chemicals, or diapers |
Sewing and handicraft threads |
|
The following items also are excluded, unless
you choose to make a statement about the fiber content. If you make any representation
about fiber, all of the requirements for fiber content disclosure, described in Fiber Content, apply.11
Belts |
Coated fabrics and those parts of textile
products made of coated fabrics
A coated fabric is any fabric which is coated, filled, impregnated, or
laminated with a continuous-film-forming polymeric composition, and the weight added to
the base fabric is at least 35 percent of the weight of the fabric before coating.12 |
Suspenders |
Arm bands |
Neckties that are permanently knotted |
Secondhand household textile items that are
obviously used or marked as secondhand |
Garters |
Non-woven disposable products intended for
one-time use only |
Diaper liners |
Labels (individually and in rolls) |
Curtains, casements, draperies, and table place
mats that are made primarily of slats, rods, or strips that are composed of wood, metal,
plastic, or leather |
Looper clips intended for handicraft purposes |
Book cloth |
Artists canvases |
Textile products purchased by U.S. military
services according to specifications
However, textile products sold and distributed through post exchanges,
sales commissaries, or ship stores are covered. In addition, if the military
sells textile products for nongovernmental purposes, the fiber information must be
furnished to the buyer for labeling the products before distribution.
|
Tapestry cloth |
Shoe laces |
All textile products manufactured by operators of company
stores and sold exclusively to their own employees |
Hand-woven rugs made by Navajo Indians with the attached
"Certificate of Genuineness" supplied by the Indian Arts and Crafts Board of the
U.S. Department of Interior |
Labeling is not required for other products not specifically mentioned
in the statute or rules, including:
Auto seat cushions
|
Industrial wiping cloths |
Awnings |
Inked ribbons for typewriters, etc. |
Baby equipmentseats, carriers, carriages, strollers,
harnesses, etc. |
Knapsacks and backpacks |
Bagsnet bags, tote bags, bags for laundry, diapers,
cosmetics, sports gear, etc. |
Life preservers and jackets
|
Beach or patio umbrellas
|
Mops & mop covers
|
Burial shrouds
|
Notebook covers
|
Chair seats for lawn chairs
|
Novelty items
|
Coasters for glasses |
Oven mitts |
Cosmetic masks and travel kits
|
Pads for sports equipment, such as toboggans
|
Coverings used in churches
|
Powder puffs
|
Covers for household items, other than furniture
and ironing boards: birdcages, irons, toasters, mixers, toilet tanks & lids, tissue
boxes |
Saddle blankets, camel saddles |
Sports protectors
(for elbow, knee, chest, etc.) |
Sweatbands |
Covers for sports equipment, such as golf clubs, skis, etc. |
Tea cozies |
Cummerbunds |
Tents |
Decorations |
Twine |
Dog coats and other pet clothing
|
Venetian blind tapes |
Drapery pleater tapes
|
Wall coverings |
Dress shields |
Wall decorations |
Eyeglass cases |
Wigs |
Filtersall types |
Window shades and shade pulls |
Flowers made of fabric |
|
Hosiery hampers |
|
Hangers padded with fabric |
|
Hot pads |
|
Textile products intended for uses not covered by the Textile Act should
be accompanied by an invoice or other piece of paper stating that they are not intended
for uses subject to the Textile
Fiber Products Identification Act.
Wool Products:
What's Covered And What's Not
Most products that contain any amount of woolincluding clothing,
blankets, fabrics, yarns, and other itemsare covered by the Wool Act and Wool Rules.13
While the requirements for wool products overlap those for other textiles, there are
differences.
- A wool product is any product (or portion of a product) that contains (or is
represented to contain) wool (including recycled wool). NOTE: Products
exempt from the Textile Act and Rulessuch as hats and slippersare covered by
the Wool Act and Rules if they
contain any wool.
- Recycled wool is wool that has been returned to a fibrous state after having
been woven, knitted, or felted into a wool product, regardless of whether a consumer has
ever used the product.
Products not covered even if they contain wool
- Carpets, rugs, mats (however, these items are covered by the Textile Act and Rules)
- Upholsteries
- Wool products made for export
Fiber Content
If your product is covered by the Textile or Wool Act and Rules, it must be labeled to
show the fiber content. The generic fiber names and percentages by weight of each
constituent fiber must be listed in descending order of predominance.14 For example:
If the product is made from one fiber, you may use the word
"All" instead of "100%." For example: "100% Wool"
or "All Wool."
The disclosure requirement applies only to fiberscontained in yarns, fabrics,
clothing, and other household items. If part of the product is made from a non-fibrous
materialsuch as plastic, glass, wood, paint, metal or leatheryou dont
have to include that on your label. That is, you dont have to disclose the contents
of zippers, buttons, beads, sequins, leather patches, painted designs, or any other parts
that are not made from fiber, yarn, or fabric.
In general, you may name only the fibers that comprise five percent or more of the
fiber weight. Fibers of less than five percent should be disclosed as "other
fiber" or "other fibers," as the case may be, and not by their generic name
or fiber trademark.15
Exceptions to the five percent rule:
(1) Wool or recycled wool must always be disclosed by name
and percentage weight, even if it is less than five percent of the product.
(2) You may state the name and percentage of a fiber that is
less than five percent of the product, if the fiber has a definite
functional significance at that amount. For example, if a small amount of spandex
is used for elasticity, the label could say:
If nylon is added to a wool garment for durability, the label could say,
for example:
You dont have to disclose the functional significance, as long as
there is one.
If there are multiple, non-functionally-significant fibers present in amounts of less
than five percent each, they should be designated with their aggregate percentage, even if
it is greater than five percent. For example:
82% Cotton
10% Polyamide
8% Other Fibers |
|
or |
90% Cotton
4% Spandex
6% Other Fibers |
|
Exceptions to the fiber disclosure requirement
Some parts of a textile or wool product do not have to be counted for labeling
purposeseven if they are made of a fibrous material. These include trim, linings
(unless used for warmth), small amounts of ornamentation, and the threads that hold the
garment together.
Trimmings
Various forms of trim incorporated into clothing and other textiles are excluded from
the labeling requirements.16 Trim includes:
collars, cuffs, braiding, waist or wrist bands, rick-rack, tape, belting, binding, labels,
leg bands, gussets, gores, welts, findings,* and superimposed hosiery garters.
* Findings include:
- elastic materials and threads added to a garment in minor proportion for structural
purposes; and
- elastic material that is part of the basic fabric from which a product is made, if the
elastic does not exceed 20 percent of the surface area. In this case, the required fiber
content information should be followed by the statement "exclusive of elastic."
Also excluded from labeling requirements are:
- decorative trim applied by embroidery, overlay, applique, or attachment, and
- decorative patterns or designs that are an integral part of the fabric.
For the exemption to apply, the decoration must not exceed 15 percent of the surface
area of the item. If no representation is made about the fiber content of the decoration,
the fiber content disclosure should be followed by the statement "exclusive of
decoration."
If decorative trim or designs exceed 15 percent of the surface area of the product and
are made of a different fiber from the base fabric, the fiber of the decoration must be
disclosed on the label as a sectional disclosure (see Sectional disclosure of fiber
content for more information). If the decorative trim does not exceed 15 percent but
information about its content is referenced somewhere, the fiber of the decoration also
must appear on the label.
Example 1: You are selling a cotton T-shirt
with decorative silk trim piping and embroidery that covers 10 percent of the shirt. No
other information about the fiber of the decoration has been given. The label may say:
All Cotton
exclusive of decoration |
|
or |
100% Cotton
exclusive of decoration |
|
Example 2: You are selling the same cotton T-shirt, described in
advertising and on signs as a "Silk Trim T." The label
must disclose the trim content. For example:
Body - 100% Cotton
Decoration - 100% Silk |
Example 3: You are selling a cotton T-shirt with decorative silk trim
piping and embroidery that covers 20 percent of the shirt. The label must disclose the
content of both the body of the shirt and the trim. For example:
Body - 100% Cotton
Decoration - 100% Silk |
Ornamentation
"Ornamentation" refers to "any fibers or yarns imparting a visibly
discernible pattern or design to a yarn or fabric."17
Ornamentation is exempt from fiber content disclosure when it does not exceed five percent
of the products fiber weight.18 You would
disclose the other fibers in the product, without regard to the ornamentation, and include
the statement: "Exclusive of Ornamentation." For example:
60% Cotton
40% Rayon
Exclusive of Ornamentation |
If you want to identify the ornamental fiber, you may do so if you also
list the percentage of the ornamentation in relation to the total fiber weight of the
principal fiber or blend of fibers. (In this case, the numbers will add up to something
greater than 100 percent.) For example:
70% Nylon
30% Acetate
Exclusive of 4% Metallic Ornamentation |
|
or |
100% Rayon
Exclusive of 3% Silk Ornamentation |
|
If the ornamentation exceeds five percent of the fiber weight, its
fiber must be disclosed as a separate section. For example:
Body: 100% Viscose
Ornamentation: 100% Silk |
There is some overlap between the definitions of
"ornamentation" and "trimmings." Therefore, if the ornamentation or
trim exceeds (1) 15 percent of the surface area of the product, and (2)
five percent of the fiber weight of the fabric, its fiber content has to be disclosed. If
it is either (1) less than 15 percent of the surface area, or
(2) less than five percent of the fiber weight, its content does not have to be disclosed,
if the label says "exclusive of decoration" or "exclusive of
ornamentation."
Linings and interlinings19
If linings, interlinings, fillings, or paddings are used only for structural purposes,
you dont have to disclose their fiber. However, if you voluntarily sayor
implyanything about their fiber content, the requirements of the statutes and rules
apply.
If linings, interlinings, fillings, or paddings are incorporated for warmth (including
metallic-coated textile linings and linings or fillings that contain any amount of wool),
their fiber must be disclosed as a sectional disclosure. For example:
Shell: 100% Nylon
Lining: 100% Polyester |
|
|
Covering: 100% Rayon
Filling: 100% Cotton |
|
Even if the outer fabric and the lining or interlining are made of the
same material, the fiber content should be disclosed separately.
Shell: 100% Polyester
Interlining: 100% Polyester |
If the lining, interlining, filling, or padding is the only textile
portion of the product, (with the outer part made of a non-textile material such as
rubber, vinyl, fur, or leather), the fiber content of the lining, interlining, filling, or
padding must be disclosed if it is incorporated into the product for warmth.
Sectional disclosure of fiber
content
If a product has separate sections with different fiber compositions, the content of
each section should be identified separately on the label.20
Where ornamentation or trim forms a distinct section of the product, and it is present in
sufficient quantity that it is not exempt from fiber disclosure, its fiber should be
disclosed as a separate section.
Examples of sectional disclosure:
Red: 100% Nylon
Blue: 100% Polyester
Green: 80% Cotton, 20% Nylon
Ornamentation: 100% Silk |
|
|
Body: 100% Cotton
Sleeves: 80% Cotton, 20% Polyester |
|
Sectional disclosure is required if necessary to avoid deception. As a
general practice, where garments or other products are divided into distinct sections made
of different fibers, sectional disclosure should be used so that the information will be
clear to consumers.
Note on elastics: The fiber content of a product that is part elastic
material and part other fabric must be disclosed by section.21
The fiber content of the non-elastic section should be disclosed in the usual manner. The
elastic section should be described as "elastic," followed by a list of the
fibers contained in the elastic, in order of predominance by weight. For example:
Front and back non-elastic sections:
50% Acetate
47% Cotton
3% Other fiber
Elastic: rayon, cotton, nylon, rubber other fiber |
If the elastic material does not exceed 20 percent of the products surface area,
it falls under the trim exemption. In that case, the label would disclose the content of
the base fabric, followed by the phrase: "exclusive of elastic." (See
previous Example 1)
Note on superimposed fibers: If a fiber is added to a particular
section of a product (such as the heel or toe of a sock) for reinforcement (or other)
purposes, the label may state the content of the base fabric (in numbers adding up to 100
percent), followed by the word "except" and the name of the superimposed fiber,
its weight relative to the base fiber(s), and the location where it was added. For
example:
55% Cotton
45% Rayon
Except 5% Nylon added to heel & toe |
Pile fabrics22
Fiber content labeling for pile fabrics may be handled in one of two ways. You can
state the fiber content for the product as a whole. Or, the fiber content of the pile and
backing may be disclosed separately. If the pile and backing are stated separately, the
ratio between the two must be given as percentages of the fiber weight of the whole. For
example:
100% Nylon Pile
100% Cotton Back
(Back is 60% of fabric and pile 40%) |
Fiber names23
Fibers, whether natural or man-made, must be identified by their generic names. The
Commission recognizes certain names that must be used to identify man-made fibers. See
Appendix. In addition, the Commission recognizes the
names listed in International Organization for Standardization (ISO) Standard 2976:
1999(E), "TextilesMan-made fibresGeneric names." While many of the
names listed in the ISO standard do not appear in the Commissions rules, they may be
used on labels to satisfy the fiber identification requirement. To order a copy of the ISO
standard, contact:
American National Standards Institute
11 West 42nd St., 13th floor
New York, NY 10036.
A few common fibers recognized by the Commission have different names in the ISO
standard. For example, the ISO standard uses the name viscose for the predominant
form of rayon, and elastane for spandex. You may use either
name.
When a manufacturer develops a new fiber, the name may not be used on labels until it
is recognized by the Commission. The manufacturer may seek recognition by the ISO or
petition the Commission.24 However, the Commission
can more easily recognize the nameand forgo the petition processif the name is
first recognized by the ISO.
Biconstituent or multiconstituent fibers: If a manufactured fiber is a
mixture of two or more chemically distinct fibers, combined during or before extrusion,
the content disclosure should state:
- whether it is a biconstituent or multiconstituent fiber;
- the generic names of the component fibers, in order of predominance by weight; and
- the percentage of each component by weight.
For example:
100% Biconstituent Fiber
(65% Nylon, 35% Polyester) |
Premium cotton fibersPima, Egyptian, Sea Island, etc.
The fiber disclosure may include the name of a type of cotton, as long as it is not
deceptive. You can label a shirt "100% Pima Cotton" as long as the garment
contains 100 percent Pima cotton fibers.
If only 50 percent of the cotton in the shirt is Pima, and you want to use the term
"Pima" on your label (or elsewhere), you must indicate that Pima constitutes 50
percent of the fiber content. For example, your label could say: "100% Cotton (50%
Pima)," or "50% Pima Cotton, 50% Upland Cotton," or "50% Pima Cotton,
50% Other Cotton." However you choose to identify the garment, the label must show
that it is 100 percent cotton and, if you choose to use the word "Pima," that
only 50 percent of the cotton fibers are Pima. To say "100% Cotton, Pima Blend,"
without disclosing the Pima content is unacceptable.
If a reference to "Pima" is placed somewhere else on the garmentsuch as
on a hangtagthe fiber content information must be repeated on the tag. This includes
use of a trademark that implies the presence of Pima cotton. (See discussion of trademarks.)
For more information, see the FTC brochure, Calling
It Cotton: Labeling and Advertising Cotton Products.
Wool fiber names
The term wool may be used for fiber made from the fleece of the sheep or lamb,
and the hair of the Angora goat, Cashmere goat, camel, alpaca, llama, or vicuna.25 Reclaimed or recycled wool fibers must be
identified as recycled wool.26
Specialty wool fibers27
Although the specialty fibers listed above may be called simply wool, they
also may be identified by their specialty fiber names: mohair, Cashmere,
camel, alpaca, llama, vicuna. If the name of a
specialty fiber is used, the percentage of that fiber must appear on the label. In
addition, any recycled specialty fiber must be identified as "recycled." For
example:
50% Recycled Camel Hair
50% Wool |
|
55% Alpaca
45% Camel Hair |
|
35% Recycled Llama
35% Recycled Vicuna
30% Cotton |
|
If specialty fiber names are used, they must appear on the required
fiber content label and in any other references to the fibers. If the required label
simply states wool, a specialty fiber name cannot be used in other non-required
information (such as a hangtag) that may appear anywhere on the product. For example, if
the label says: 100% Wool, you cannot have "Fine
Cashmere Garment" appear on the required label or any other label or tag. If
the garment has a small amount of Cashmere, and you draw attention to that fact in some
way, Cashmere should be listed on the label with the actual percentage. For example:
As with other fiber content disclosures, all parts of the fiber
information must be in type of equal size and conspicuousness (see Mechanics Of Labeling). References to the
specialty fiber cannot be misleading or deceptive. For example, if a jacket has the above
labeldisclosing that it contains three percent Cashmereit would be misleading
to attach another label to the sleeve stating "FINE CASHMERE BLEND,"
unless the sleeve label repeats the full fiber disclosure with percentages by weight.
Other hair or fur fibers
The term fur fiber may be used to describe the hair or fur fiberor
mixtures thereofof any animals other than the sheep, lamb, Angora goat, Cashmere
goat, camel, alpaca, llama, and vicuna. The name of another animal may be used if its hair
or fur fiber comprises more than five percent of the fiber weight. For example, 60%
Wool, 30% Fur Fiber, 10% Angora Rabbit.
The hair or fiber of new varieties of cross-bred animals, such as Cashgora hair or
Paco-Vicuna hair, also can be disclosed in this way. For example:
60% Wool
40% Cashgora Hair |
NOTE: If a hair or fur fiber is attached to the animal
skin, it is covered by the Fur Rules (see Summary of Fur Labeling
Requirements).
Fiber trademarks
On labels28
A fiber trademark may be used on a content label as long as it appears immediately next
to the generic fiber name. The type or lettering of the trademark name and the generic
name must be equally conspicuous and of the same size.
Whenever a fiber trademark appears on any label or tag, a complete fiber content
disclosure must be made the first time the trademark is used. For example:
80% Cotton
20% Lycra® Spandex |
If the trademark doesnt appear in the fiber content disclosure,
but appears elsewhere on the label, the generic name of the fiber must appear together
with the trademark the first time the trademark is used. For example:
80% Cotton
20% Spandex
Made in the USA
Lycra® Spandex
Lycra® for
Fit |
Fiber trademarks or generic names appearing on non-required labels or
tags must not be false, deceptive, or misleading. For example, a fiber trademark must not
be used to indicate or imply that a product is made completely of a certain fiber when it
isnt.
In advertising29
If a fiber trademark is used in advertisingincluding advertising on the
Internetthe fiber content must be disclosed at least once in the ad. The percentages
do not have to be included. However,
- if the advertised product contains more than one fiberother than
ornamentationthe content disclosure must include the fiber trademark and the generic
name of the fiber immediately next to each other in lettering of equal size and
conspicuousness.
- if the advertised product contains only one fiberother than
ornamentationthe fiber trademark and the generic name of the fiber must appear
immediately next to each other at least once in the ad in lettering that is legible and
conspicuous.
The generic name cannot be placed in a footnote or elsewhere in the ad, signaled by an
asterisk.
Fiber trademarks used elsewhere in ads must not give a false, deceptive, or misleading
message about content, such as implying that the product is made completely of a certain
fiber when it isnt. (See Advertising
And Catalogs for more information on advertising.)
Products containing unknown fibers30
If a textile product is madein whole or in partfrom scraps, clippings,
rags, secondhand fibers or fabrics, or other textile waste materials of unknown and, for
practical purposes, undeterminable fiber content, the disclosure may indicate that this is
the case. For example:
Made of clippings of unknown fiber content
100% unknown fibersrags
All undetermined fiberstextile by-products
100% miscellaneous pieces of undetermined fiber content
Secondhand materialsfiber content unknown
45% Rayon
30% Acetate
25% Unknown fiber content
75% Recycled Wool
25% Unknown Reclaimed Fibers
60% Cotton
40% Unknown fibersscraps |
If on the other hand, the fiber content is known or can be readily
determined, the full content disclosure must be given.
Sale of remnants and products made of remnants31
Remnants for sale in a retail store do not have to be labeled individually if a display
sign indicates that they are "remnants of unknown fiber content and origin."
Similarly, remnants of known fiber do not have to be labeled individually if a sign
indicates the content. For example: "remnants, 100% cotton," "remnants, 50%
rayon, 50% acetate."
If a finished product is made of remnants of undetermined content, the label would
read: "Made of remnants of undetermined fiber content and origin," or some
equivalent statement.
Marking of fabric samples or swatches32
If fabric samples or swatches are used to promote the sale of textile products, the
samples or swatches must be labeled with all the required information unless they are:
- less than two square inches (12.9 cm²), and the required information is disclosed in
accompanying promotional material; or
- keyed to a catalog which discloses the required information; or
- not being used to make sales to consumers, are not in a form for use by consumers, and
the invoice discloses the required information.
Tolerances for fiber content
Textile products33
There is a three percent tolerance for fiber content claims on labels. For example, if
the label indicates that a product contains 40 percent cotton, the actual amount of cotton
present may vary from 37 percent to 43 percent of the total fiber weight. That
does not mean you can knowingly misrepresent fiber amounts. If you know that the
product contains 37 percent cotton, the label should say "37% cotton." The
tolerance simply allows for a small amount of unintended inconsistency in the
manufacturing process. Deviations larger than three percent constitute mislabeling, unless
the company can prove that it was the result of unavoidable variations in manufacturing,
despite the exercise of due care.
No tolerance is allowed if the label states that a product contains one fiber
(exclusive of allowed amounts of ornamentation or decorative trim).34 For example, if a blouse contains 97 percent silk
and three percent polyester, you cannot label it "100% silk" based on the three
percent tolerance. The three percent polyester was intentionally added to the fabric.
Therefore, labeling the blouse "100% silk" would be intentional mislabeling.
Wool Products
The Wool Act and Rules do not provide any tolerance for the content of wool products.
However, the Wool Act states that variations from stated fiber content will not be
considered mislabeling if the "deviation resulted from unavoidable variations in
manufacture and despite the exercise of due care to make accurate the statements" on
the label.35 For practical purposes, the
Commission will apply the three percent tolerance allowed for other textile products to
wool products.
Country Of Origin36
Products covered by the Textile
and Wool Acts must be labeled to
show the country of origin.
- Imported products must identify the country where they were processed or manufactured.
- Products made entirely in the U.S. of materials also made in the U.S. must be labeled
"Made in U.S.A." or with an equivalent phrase.
- Products made in the U.S. of imported materials must be labeled to show the processing
or manufacturing that takes place in the United States, as well as the imported component.
- Products manufactured in part in the U.S. and in part abroad must identify both aspects.
Note on FTC Rules and Customs Regulations: The U.S. Customs Service
has country of origin labeling requirements separate from those under the Textile and Wool
Acts and Rules. For example, FTC rules do not require labeling until a textile product is
in its finished state for sale to the consumer. Textile products imported in an
intermediate stage may, in lieu of being labeled, be accompanied by an invoice with the
required information (see Textile Products).
Customs, however, may require that an unfinished product be marked with the country of
origin. Manufacturers and importers must comply with both FTC and Customs requirements.
Imported products made entirely abroad
A textile product made entirely abroad must be labeled with the name of the country
where it was processed or manufactured. Importers and other marketers should check Customs
regulations to determine the appropriate country of origin for products made entirely
abroad.
Unqualified "Made in U.S.A." labels
A label may say "Made in U.S.A." only if the product is made completely in
the U.S. of materials that were made in the U.S. If a U.S. manufacturer uses imported
greige goods that are dyed, printed, and finished in the U.S., for example, they may not
be labeled "Made in U.S.A." without qualification.
NOTE: The origin of parts of the product exempt from content
disclosure (such as zippers, buttons, etc.) does not have to be considered in determining
the products country of origin.
Products made in the U.S.A. with imported materials
The label must indicate that the product contains imported materials. The label may
identify the country of origin of the imported materials, but it doesnt have to. It
can say simply: "Made in U.S.A. of imported fabric" or "Knitted in U.S.A.
of imported yarn." This disclosure must appear as a single statement, without
separating the "Made in U.S.A." and "imported" references.
Manufacturers should be aware that for certain productsincluding sheets, towels,
comforters, handkerchiefs, scarfs, napkins, and other "flat" goodsCustoms
requires identification of the country where the fabric was made.37
To comply with Customs and FTC requirements for this group of products, the label must
identify both the U.S. and the country of origin of the fabric. For example: "Made in
U.S.A. of fabric made in China."
Identification of processing or manufacturing that takes place in the U.S. and
abroad
If processing or manufacturing takes place in the U.S. and another
country, the label must identify both aspects of production. For example:
Made in Sri Lanka,
Finished in U.S.A. |
|
|
Comforter filled,
sewn and finished in U.S.A.
with shell made in Malaysia |
|
Assembled in U.S.A.
of imported components |
|
NOTE: There are special requirements for the placement of country of
origin information. (See Label
placement and attachment.)
Country names
The name of the country of origin must appear in English. Abbreviations (such as,
U.S.A. or Gt. Britain) and other spellings close to the English version (Italie
for Italy, or Brasil for Brazil) can be used if they clearly and unmistakably
identify the country. Adjective forms of country names also can be used. For example,
"Chinese Silk." But the adjective form of a country name should not be used
deceptively to refer to a kind or type of product, for example, "Spanish lace,"
when the lace is Spanish in style, but not made in Spain. Use of the abbreviations
"CAN" and "MEX," for "Canada" and "Mexico," are
acceptable under FTC rules, but may not be under Customs requirements.
The phrases "made in" or "product of" dont have to be used
with the name of the country of origin, unless needed to avoid confusion or deception. A
symbol, like a flag, could be placed next to the name of a country to indicate that the
item is a product of that country. If more than one country is named on the label, phrases
or words describing the specific processing in each country are usually necessary to
convey the required information to the consumer.
One step removed rule
In deciding whether to mark a product as made, in whole or in part, in the U.S., a
manufacturer must consider only the origin of materials that are one step removed from the
particular manufacturing process. For example, a yarn manufacturer must identify imported
fiber. A manufacturer of knitted garments must identify imported yarn. A manufacturer of
apparel made from cloth must identify imported fabric.
Country of origin in mail
order advertising38
Country of origin information must be disclosed in mail order advertising, such as
catalogs, including that disseminated on the Internet. Product descriptions in these ads
must include a statement that the product was either made in the U.S.A., imported, or
both.
- "Made in U.S.A. and Imported" should be used to indicate manufacture in the
U.S. from imported materials, or part processing in the U.S. and part in a foreign
country.
- "Made in U.S.A. or Imported" should be used to reflect that some units of an
item originate from a domestic source and others from a foreign source.
- "Made in U.S.A." may be used only if all units were made completely in the
U.S. of materials also made in the U.S.
Of course, the description must be consistent with the origin labeling on the
advertised product. (See also Advertising And Catalogs.)
Identification Of Manufacturer, Importer, Or Other Dealer39
In addition to identifying fiber content and country of origin, textile labels must
identify either the company name or Registered
Identification Number (RN) of the manufacturer, importer, or another firm marketing,
distributing, or otherwise handling the product. An RN is a number issued and registered
by the FTC and may be issued to any firm in the U.S. that manufactures, imports, markets,
distributes, or otherwise handles textile, wool, or fur products. RNs are not issued to
businesses outside of the U.S. You may use an RN instead of a name to satisfy the labeling
requirement.
If you use a company name
The name must be the full name under which the company is doing business. It cannot be
a trademark, trade name, brand, label, or designer nameunless that name is also the
name under which the company is doing business.
Imported Products: If the product is imported, the label can
identify any of the following:
- the name of the foreign manufacturer,
- the name or RN of the importer,
- the name or RN of the wholesaler, or
- the name or RN of the ultimate retailerif the retailer has
consented.
Caution: If the textiles are labeled with the name or RN of
the retailer, and for any reason the intended retailer does not receive the goods and they
are sold to someone else, the retailers name or RN must be removed or obliterated,
and the products relabeled with the RN or name of a company that is in the actual line of
distribution.
If you use a Registered Identification Number (RN)
The prefix "RN" or "WPL" is part of the Registered Identification
Number and must precede the numerals on the label. |
|
A single RN may be
used by a company for labeling products under the Textile, Wool,
and/or Fur Acts. Only one number will be assigned to a company. In
the past, the Commission issued |
Wool Products Labeling
(WPL) numbers for wool products. Although no longer issued, WPL
numbers may still be used by companies holding them. An RN or WPL
may be used only by the business to which it was
assigned. That is, RNs and WPLs are not transferable or
assignable. |
You dont need to get or use an RN to do business; the RN is simply another way to
identify your company on labels, instead of using the full company name. However, there
are several benefits to using an RN:
- it lets buyers easily identify and find you by using an RN directory or the RN look-up
service on the Internet;
- it usually takes up less space on the label than the company name; and
- it facilitates record-keeping and helps you keep track of whos who in the textile
trade.
You also may find that some companies will require you to have an RN in order to do
business with you.
How to get an RN
An RN application form (FTC Form 31
[TEXT] [PDF]) is included in the back
of this booklet. You can use this form or a photocopy of it. The RN form also is available
on the FTCs Web site at www.ftc.gov. Click on Business
Guidance, then RN Lookup Service, then Apply For/Update
an RN Number. You also can call or fax the Commission to request an RN
application.
The application form should be completed and signed by a company official and returned
to the Commission by mail or fax.
The Commission is working on a system to accept RN applications and updates on the
Internet. When operational, instructions for its use will be posted on the Web site under Business
Guidance.
How to identify the company holding a particular RN
The RN database is available at www.ftc.govclick
on Business Guidance, then RN Lookup Service.
If you dont have access to the Internet, you can fax or mail a request that FTC
staff identify the holders of one or more (but no more than 10) RNs.
How to update RN information
Its important to keep the information on your RN application form current. When
you move or change your name without telling the Commission, the systems usefulness
decreases.
With the RN database available on the Internet,
companies using an RN are urged to check the information given for their number and notify
the Commission of any changes. Please use the RN application form to update information.
Be sure to include your RN. Mail or fax your completed form to the Commission.
NOTE: Failure to keep your RN information current may result in
cancellation of your RN. An RN also may be canceled if obtained or used improperly.
Replacing another company's label with your own40
An importer, distributor, or retailer may want to replace the original label on a
textile product with a label showing its company or RN. This is perfectly legal as long as
the new label lists the name or RN of the person or company making the change.
NOTE: If you remove a label containing required information, the label
you substitute also must contain that required information. Otherwise, youve
violated the Textile Act.
SPECIAL CAUTION TO RETAILERS:
Some retailers, such as bridal salons, remove labels with required information from the
garments they offer for sale without replacing them. This is illegal under the Textile Act. If a retailer
removes any label containing required information, it must substitute another label with
its own name or RN and any other required information that appeared on the original label.
In addition, anyone substituting a label must keep records, for three years, showing the
information on the removed label and the company from which the product was received.
Mechanics Of
Labeling41
Amendments to the Textile
and Wool Acts have simplified
and streamlined the requirements for disclosing the necessary information:
- The three required disclosures may appear on one label or on separate labels. They may
appear on a label with other informationsuch as the care instructions. In fact,
consumers and professional cleaners find it very helpful to have the fiber content on the
same label with the care instructions.
- All parts of the required information must be clearly legible, conspicuous, and readily
accessible to the consumer.
- All parts of the fiber content information must be in type or lettering of equal
size and conspicuousness. For example, your label cannot
say:
- You can use other non-deceptive terms that accurately describe
the fiber. For example:
Exception: The English language requirement does not apply to
disclosures in advertisements in foreign language newspapers or periodicals. (See
discussion of advertisements for textile
products.)
Some Examples of Correct Labels
100% Lyocell
Made in Mexico
RN 00003 |
|
|
55% polyester
45% cotton
Size 10
Made in USA
RN 00001 |
|
|
100% cotton
exclusive of decoration
machine wash warm
tumble dry medium
warm iron
-12-
Made in New Zealand
Kangaroo Imports, Inc. |
|
|
ElegantLinesTM
Size 10
Made in USA
of imported fabric |
Front of label |
|
100% Silk
dry clean only
RN 00001 |
Back of label |
Label placement and
attachment
- The label(s) with required information must be securely attached to the product until it
is delivered to the consumer. However, the label(s) need not be permanently attached.
Note:
Many consumers and professional cleaners consider it important to have fiber information
on a permanent label. Also, remember that garments must have care instructions on a
permanent label. Therefore, it may be useful to have the two pieces of information on the
same label.
- In a garment with a neck, a label disclosing the country of origin (on the front) must
be attached to the inside center of the neckeither midway between the shoulder seams
or very near another label attached to the inside center of the neck. The fiber content
and manufacturer or dealer identity can appear on the same label (front or back) or on
another conspicuous and readily accessible label(s) on the inside or outside of the
garment.
Example: In a jacket or blazer, the country of origin would always
have to be disclosed on a label at or near the inside center of the neck. The fiber
content and manufacturer or dealer could be disclosed on another label attached to a side
seam. However, the fiber and manufacturer/dealer information could not be on a label
attached to the inside of the elbow because it would not be conspicuous and readily
accessible.
- On garments without a neck, and on other kinds of textile products, the required
information must appear on a conspicuous and readily accessible label(s) on the inside or
outside of the product.
Example: In a skirt or pair of slacks, a location on the inside of the
waistband would be conspicuous and accessible. The inside of a pocket or pant leg would
not be conspicuous or accessible.
Example: In a pillowcase, a location on the inside, but very close to
the open end would be conspicuous and accessible. A location on the inside of the closed
end would not be conspicuous or accessible.
Special exception for hosiery sold in packages42
Packaged hosiery products need not have a label on each piece of hosiery in the
package, if the package has a label listing all of the required
information and the information on the package is applicable to each of
the products in the package.
Other products sold in packages43
For other packaged productssuch as T-shirtsthe required information must be
on each item in the package, as well as on the package itself. However, if the
package is transparent and the required information on the labels can be read without
opening the package, the package need not be labeled.
Products with two or more items of the same fiber44
If garments or other textile products are sold in pairs (such as socks, mittens, or
gloves) or ensembles (such as a suit or a set of dinner napkins) of the same fiber
content, only one part of the pair or ensemble needs to be labeled.
Products with two or more items of different fibers45
If textile products are sold as a set or ensemble (such as a tablecloth and set of
napkins), the required information may appear on a single label even if the fiber content
is not the same for all parts of the set. In this case, the label must separately identify
the fiber content of the components.
Tablecloth: 100% cotton
Napkins: 50% cotton, 50% polyester |
If these items are not always sold as an ensemble, they must be
separately labeled.
Bolts of cloth
Fabric cut from bolts or rolls in stores doesnt need a label if the bolt or roll
is properly labeled.
Advertising
And Catalogs
Ads46
If a written ad for a textile product makes any statement about a fiber, or implies
the presence of a particular fiber, the fiber content information required on the
labelexcept for percentagesalso must appear in the ad. Use of a fiber
trademark in advertising also triggers disclosure, at least once in the ad, of the fiber
content information. In this disclosure, the fiber trademark should appear very near the
generic name of the fiber.
Written advertising includes Internet advertising. It does not include shelf or display
signs indicating the location of textile products in stores.
If an ad triggers fiber content disclosure, the fiber names must be listed as they
appear on the labelin descending order of weight, with fibers constituting less than
five percent designated as "other fiber" or "other fibers." The
information must be conspicuous and easy to read, in lettering of equal size.
Other information in the ad cannot be false, deceptive, or misleading, or include any
terms or representations that would be prohibited under the statute and rules. A fiber
trademark cannot be used in a misleading manner to indicate or imply presence of a fiber
that is not present.
Terms that truthfully describe a fiber may be used with its generic name, such as
"cross-linked rayon," "solution dyed acetate," "combed
cotton," "Pima cotton," or "Egyptian cotton."
Specialty cottons: If your ad refers to premium cottons, such
as "Pima" or "Egyptian," be careful it does not convey to a reader
that the product is made solely of the premium cotton, unless that is the case.
Catalogs47
When a textile or wool product is advertised in a catalog or other mail order
promotional material, either printed or disseminated on the Internet, the description must
include a clear and conspicuous statement that the item was either "made in
U.S.A.," "imported," or "made in U.S.A. and [or] imported." Of
course, catalog information about origin must be consistent with the information on the
label. (See Country
of origin in mail order advertising.)
Continuing
And Separate Guaranties48
A guaranty is a written promise that the textile, wool, or fur products covered by the
guaranty are properly labeled, and not falsely or deceptively described in advertising or
on invoices. A separate guaranty is one given for goods in a particular
transaction. A continuing guaranty covers all products subject to a particular
statute, and may be provided by a seller to a buyer or filed with the FTC.
Reliance on the properly executed guaranty of a seller is a legal defense. A business
that, in good faith, relies on such a guaranty will not be found in violation of the law
if the textile (or wool or fur) products are subsequently determined to be mislabeled.
The Textile, Wool, and Fur Acts allow four different types
of guaranties, none of which is required by law. The furnishing of a guaranty is a matter
between the buyer and seller. The furnishing or filing of a false guaranty is a violation
of the law.
(1) Separate guaranty
A separate guaranty promises compliance with the law for the products listed on the
invoice for that transaction. It would state, for example:
We guarantee that the textile fiber [or wool or fur] products specified herein are not
misbranded nor falsely nor deceptively advertised or invoiced under the provisions of the Textile Fiber Products Identification
Act [or Wool Products Labeling
Act or Fur Products Labeling Act]
and rules and regulations thereunder.
(2) Separate guaranty based on a guaranty
This is a guaranty of compliance with the law that is based upon another guaranty,
issued by the previous seller of the products listed on the invoice. It would state, for
example:
Based upon a guaranty received, we guarantee that the textile fiber [or wool or fur]
products specified herein are not misbranded nor falsely nor deceptively advertised or
invoiced under the provisions of the Textile Fiber Products Identification
Act [or Wool Products Labeling
Act or Fur Products Labeling Act]
and rules and regulations thereunder.
(3) Continuing guaranty from seller to buyer
A continuing guaranty from seller to buyer guarantees compliance with the law for all
of the covered products sold by that seller to that buyer. It would state:
We, the undersigned, guarantee that all textile fiber [or wool or fur] products now
being sold or which may hereafter be sold or delivered to ___________ are not, and will
not be, misbranded nor falsely nor deceptively advertised or invoiced under the provisions
of the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act [or Wool Products Labeling Act or Fur
Products Labeling Act] and rules and regulations thereunder. This guaranty effective until
[date] or [revoked]. Dated, signed, and certified this [date] day of [month], [year], at
[city], [state], [name under which business is conducted].
Under penalty of perjury, I certify that the information supplied in this form is true
and correct.
_________________________________________________
[signature of proprietor, principal partner, or corporate official]
_________________________________________________
[name, titleprinted] |
(4)
Continuing guaranty filed with the FTC
A continuing guaranty filed with the FTC is a certified statement that all of the
textile (or wool or fur) products manufactured or marketed by the guarantor are labeled in
compliance with the law and will not be falsely or deceptively advertised or invoiced. The
form for a continuing guaranty to be filed with the Commission is found at the back of
this booklet. A business that has filed a continuing guaranty with the FTC can give notice
of that fact by stating on invoices or other papers covering the handling or distribution
of guaranteed products:
Continuing guaranty under the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act [or Wool
Products Labeling Act or Fur Products Labeling Act] filed with the Federal Trade
Commission.
Any person or company in the U.S. that manufactures or otherwise handles covered
textile, wool, or fur products may file a continuing guaranty with the Commission. The
filing of a continuing guaranty is not required by law. However, some
buyers may refuse to purchase textile, wool, or fur products from a seller that has not
filed a continuing guaranty with the FTC. If you file a continuing guaranty with the
Commission, you need not provide a separate guaranty to each customer or with each
shipment of goods.
Foreign companies cannot file a continuing guaranty with the FTC. In addition, a
guaranty received by a domestic firm from a foreign company will not serve as a legal
defense if the importer is charged by the FTC with mislabeling products. An importer is
legally responsible for the proper labeling of imported textile, wool, and fur products.
Importers should periodically test the fiber or fur content of imported goods to verify
label accuracy. Importers also should be aware that Customs may test products for fiber
content and impound mislabeled shipments or obtain liquidated damages.
Continuing guaranties filed with the FTC are effective until revoked. Guarantors should
promptly report any change in address or business status. Continuing guaranties filed with
the FTC are public records.
FTC Form 31-A Continuing Guaranty
[TEXT] [PDF]
Record Keeping49
Manufacturers of textile products must keep records showing the information required to
be on the label (fiber content, manufacturer or dealer identity or RN, and country of
origin) for all textile products they produce. The records must adequately show that the
requirements of the statute and rules have been met and establish a traceable line from
the raw materials to the finished product.
Any business substituting a label on a textile product must keep records showing the
information on the label that was removed and the name of the party from whom the product
was received.
These records must be kept for three years.
The same record-keeping requirements apply to manufacturers of wool products, with the
added requirement that their records show the percentage weight of any non-fibrous filling
material.
Summary
Of Fur Labeling Requirements50
Label information
Fur products must have a label disclosing:
- The animal name (according to a name guide contained in the rules).
If the animal came from a particular country, the adjective form of the country name
may (but does not have to) precede the animal name (for example, "Russian
Mink").
- The name or RN of the manufacturer, importer, or other seller, marketer, or
distributor.
In general, the requirements for a company name or RN, and for label substitution, are
the same as those for textile and wool products, as described in Identification
Of Manufacturer, Importer, Or Other Dealer.
- The country of origin for imported fur products (including country of origin
for imported furs made into fur products in the U.S.).
Domestic fur products may (but do not have to be) labeled to show origin. They also may
be labeled to show the particular state or part of the country they came from. A name that
connotes a false geographic origin cannot be used, and domestic furs cannot be labeled or
advertised in a way that implies they are imported.
- If the fur is pointed, dyed, bleached, or artificially colored.
If none of these treatments applies, the fur should be labeled as "natural."
- If the fur product is composed in whole or substantial part (more than 10
percent of surface area) of pieces, such as paws, tails, bellies, sides, flanks, gills,
ears, throats, heads, scraps, or waste fur.
- If the fur is used or damaged.
- The textile or wool content of any part of the product.
For example, on a wool coat with fur trim, the label must disclose the wool content as
required by the Wool Act and Rules.
The content of a fur coat lining must be disclosed if the lining provides added warmth.
If the lining serves only a structural purpose, its fiber does not have to be disclosed.
Mechanics of labeling
- Size. Labels must be a minimum of 1¾ by 2¾ inches (4.5 x 7 cm).
- Durability. The label must be durable enough to remain on the fur until it is
delivered to the consumer.
- Lettering. The required information must be no smaller than pica or 12 point
type, with all parts of the information in letters of equal size and conspicuousness.
- Order. The required order of information on the label is:
- whether the fur is natural or pointed, bleached, dyed, etc.
- if the product contains fur that has been sheared, plucked, or let-out (optional)
- the adjective form of the name of the country from which the animal originated
(optional)
- name of the animal
- if the fur product is composed of parts
- country of origin
- any other information that is required or permitted
- the name or RN of the manufacturer or dealer may either precede or follow the above.
Invoices and advertising
- The required information also must appear on invoices and in advertising for fur
products.
- Ads for a group of furs with various countries of origin may use the following
statement, instead of separately listing the countries: "Fur products labeled to show
country of origin of imported furs." This does not apply to catalog advertising where
the customer will not have the opportunity to examine the product and its label before
purchase.
- Advertising of a general or institutional naturenot intended to promote the sale
of any particular product(s)does not have to have the required information. However,
if the ad makes any reference to a color, and the color is caused by artificial coloring,
that fact must be disclosed.
Exemption
If the cost to a manufacturer of fur trim used on a product (not including the cost of
adding the trim to the product), or a manufacturers selling price
of a fur product does not exceed $150, the product is exempt from the statute and rules.
The invoice should state: "FPL EXEMPT"
The exemption does not apply if:
- the product contains used fur
- the product is the whole skin of an animal, with head, ears, paws, and tail
- any false, deceptive, or misleading statements are made about the fur.
In addition, if any representations about the fur are made in labeling, invoicing, or
advertising, disclosure also must be made concerning: the name of the animal, whether the
fur is artificially colored, and whether the fur is composed of fur parts.
Record keeping; Continuing and separate guaranties
These provisions are basically the same as those for textile and wool products.
Enforcement Of The Textile, Wool, and Fur Rules
A violation of the Textile, Wool, and Fur Acts, or the Commissions rules under
those acts, is considered an unfair method of competition and an unfair and deceptive act
or practice under the Federal Trade Commission Act.51
The FTC Act provides various remedies for these violations. The Commission may issue an
administrative order prohibiting the act or practice that violates the FTC Act. Violators
of an administrative order are subject to monetary civil penalties of up to $11,000 for
each violation. Each instance of mislabeling under the Textile, Wool, and Fur Acts is
considered a separate violation.
Businesses not subject to a previous administrative order also can be subject to
monetary civil penalties,52 an injunction, and
other remediesincluding consumer redressin a federal district court action.
The Commission can bring a civil penalty case against a company that knowingly engages in
practicessuch as the mislabeling of textile productsthat the Commission has
determined in prior cases to be unfair or deceptive. In this kind of case,
"knowledge" refers to knowledge of the law. Because the Commission has widely
distributed copies of the statutes, rules, and prior decisions in the textile, wool, and
fur areas, many manufacturers and sellers have knowledge of the labeling requirements.
Improperly labeled imported items can be held up by Customs and possibly subject to
liquidated damages.
For More
Information
If you have questions about the Textile, Wool and Fur Acts and Rules, contact:
Textile Section
Division of Enforcement
Federal Trade Commission
Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202-326-3553
Fax: 202-326-3197
You also may visit us at
www.ftc.gov on the Web. This booklet and the
Textile, Wool, and Fur Acts and Rules are found by clicking on
Business Guidance.
Your
Opportunity To Comment
The Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman and 10 Regional
Fairness Boards collect comments from small business about federal enforcement actions.
Each year, the Ombudsman evaluates enforcement activities and rates each agencys
responsiveness to small business. To comment on FTC actions, call 1-888-734-3247.
Endnotes
1. The Textile
Fiber Products Identification Act (Textile Act), 15 U.S.C. § 70, et seq., and the Wool Products Labeling Act of 1939
(Wool Act), 15 U.S.C. § 68, et seq. The Rules and Regulations under the
Textile Fiber Products Identification Act (Textile Rules) are found at 16 C.F.R. Part
303 and the Rules and Regulations
under the Wool Products Labeling Act (Wool Rules) are found at 16 C.F.R. Part 300.
2. The Fur
Products Labeling Act (Fur Act), 15 U.S.C. § 69, et seq.; the Rules and Regulations under the Fur
Products Labeling Act (Fur Rules) are found at 16 C.F.R. Part 301.
3. Care
Labeling of Textile Wearing Apparel and Certain Piece Goods, 16 C.F.R. Part 423.
4. 15 U.S.C. § 70a(d).
5. 16 C.F.R. § 303.45(a)(1).
6. 15 U.S.C. § 70a(d)(5); 16 C.F.R. § 303.31.
7. 15 U.S.C. § 70j(a).
8. A backing is that part of the floor covering to which the
pile, face, or outer surface is woven, tufted, hooked, knitted, or otherwise attached, and
which provides the structural base of the floor covering. 16 C.F.R. § 303.1(m).
9. 15 U.S.C. § 70j(a)(8); 21 U.S.C. § 301, et seq.
10. For guidance concerning shoes, handbags, luggage, or belts
made of leather or imitation leather, see the Commissions Guides for Select Leather and
Imitation Leather Products,16 C.F.R. Part 24.
11. 16 C.F.R. § 303.45(a)(2)-(9) and (b).
12. 16 C.F.R. § 303.1(o).
13. The Wool
Products Labeling Act of 1939, 15 U.S.C. § 68; implementing rules found at 16 C.F.R.
Part 300.
14. 15 U.S.C. § 70b(b)(1)-(2) and § 68b(a)(2)(A); 16 C.F.R.
§ 303.16(a)(1) and § 300.3(a)(1).
15. 15 U.S.C. § 70b(b)(2) and § 68b(a)(2)(A); 16 C.F.R.
§ 303.3 and § 300.3(a)(1).
16. 15 U.S.C. § 70j(a)(5) and § 68b(d); 16 C.F.R.
§ 303.12 and § 300.1(k).
17. 16 C.F.R. § 303.1(q) and § 300.1(c).
18. 15 U.S.C. § 70b(b)(2) and § 68b(a)(2)(A); 16 C.F.R.
§ 303.26 and § 300.16.
19. 15 U.S.C. § 70j(a)(3)-(4) and § 68b(d); 16 C.F.R.
§ 303.22 and § 300.23.
20. 16 C.F.R. § 303.25 and § 300.22.
21. 16 C.F.R. § 303.10.
22. 16 C.F.R. § 303.24 and § 300.26.
23. 16 C.F.R. §§ 303.6 and 303.7, and
§ 300.8(a)-(b).
24. The procedures for filing a fiber-name petition are found
at 16 C.F.R. § 303.8.
25. 15 U.S.C. § 68(b).
26. 15 U.S.C. § 68(c); 16 C.F.R. § 300.3(b).
27. 16 C.F.R. §§ 300.18 and 300.19.
28. 16 C.F.R. §§ 303.1(r) and 303.17, and §§ 300.1(d)
and 300.8(c)-(f).
29. 16 C.F.R. § 303.41.
30. 16 C.F.R. § 303.14, and §§ 300.28 and 300.29.
31. 16 C.F.R. § 303.13.
32. 16 C.F.R. § 303.21 and § 300.21.
33. 15 U.S.C. § 70b(b)(2); 16 C.F.R. § 303.43.
34. 16 C.F.R. § 303.43(c).
35. 15 U.S.C. § 68b(a)(2)(A).
36. 15 U.S.C. § 70b(b)(4)-(5) and § 68b(a)(2)(D); 16 C.F.R.
§ 303.33, and §§ 300.3(a)(4) and 300.25.
37. 19 C.F.R. § 102.21, implementing Section 334 of the
Uruguay Round Agreements Act, 19 U.S.C. § 3592.
38. 15 U.S.C. § 70b(i) and § 68b(e); 16 C.F.R.
§ 303.34 and § 300.25a.
39. 15 U.S.C., § 70b(b)(3) and § 68b(a)(2)(C); 16
C.F.R. §§ 303.16(a)(2), 303.19, and 303.20, and §§ 300.3(a)(3), 300.4, and 300.13.
40. 15 U.S.C. § 70c(b) and § 68c(a).
41. 16 C.F.R. §§ 303.15 and 303.16, and
§§ 300.5, 300.10, and 300.11.
42. 15 U.S.C. § 70b(e) and § 68c(c); 16 C.F.R. §
303.15(c) and § 300.5(c).
43. 15 U.S.C. § 70b(e) and § 68c(c); 16 C.F.R. §
303.28 and § 300.15.
44. 16 C.F.R. § 303.29(b) and § 300.12(b).
45. 16 C.F.R. § 303.29(a) and § 300.12(a).
46. 15 U.S.C. § 70b(c) and § 68b(e); 16 C.F.R. §§
303.40, 303.41, and 303.42.
47. 16 C.F.R. § 303.34 and § 300.25a.
48. 15 U.S.C. § 70h and 16 C.F.R. §§ 303.36, 303.37, and
303.38 (Textile Act and Rules); 15 U.S.C. § 68g and 16
C.F.R. §§ 300.32, 300.33, 300.34 (Wool
Act and Rules); and 15
U.S.C. § 69h and 16 C.F.R. §§ 301.46, 301.47, 301.48, and 301.48a (Fur Act and Rules).
49. 15 U.S.C. § 70d and § 68d(b); 16 C.F.R. § 303.39
and § 300.31.
50. 15 U.S.C. § 69, et seq.; 16 C.F.R. Part 301.
51. 15 U.S.C. §§ 70a and 70e; 15 U.S.C. §§ 68a
and 68d; 15 U.S.C. §§ 69a and 69f; and 15 U.S.C. § 41, et seq.
52. 15 U.S.C. § 45(m)(1)(B).
Appendices
FTC Address & Telephone Number for questions about the Textile, Wool and
Fur Rules
Textile Section
Division of Enforcement
Federal Trade Commission
Washington, DC 20580
Phone: 202-326-3553
Fax: 202-326-3197
FTC website: www.ftc.gov
This booklet and the Textile, Wool, and Fur Rules are found by clicking on
Business
Guidance.
Generic Names for Manufactured Fibers 16 CFR § 303.7
Acetate
Triacetate |
Glass |
Olefin
Lastol |
Spandex |
Acrylic |
Melamine |
PBI |
Sulfar |
Anidex |
Metallic |
PLA |
Vinal |
Aramid |
Modacrylic |
Polyester
Elasterell-p |
Vinyon |
Azlon
|
Novoloid |
Rayon,
Lyocell |
|
Elastoester |
Nylon |
Rubber
Lastrile |
|
Fluoropolymer |
Nytril |
Saran |
|
ISO Names Not Listed in Textile Rules
Alginate
|
Elastane |
Metal Fibre |
Polyimide |
Carbon |
Elastodiene |
Modal |
Polypropylene |
Chlorofibre |
Fluorofibre |
Polyamide |
Vinylal |
Cupro |
|
Polyethylene |
Viscose |
Application for a Registered Identification Number
("RN") [TEXT]
[PDF]
Continuing Guaranty
[TEXT] [PDF]
Federal Trade Commission
The Federal Trade Commission's Bureau of Consumer Protection seeks to protect consumers
against unfair, deceptive, or fraudulent practices. The Bureau enforces a variety of
consumer protection laws enacted by Congress, and trade regulation rules issued by the
Commission. Its actions include individual company and industry-wide investigations,
administrative and federal court litigation, and rulemaking proceedings. In addition, the
Bureau contributes to the Commission's ongoing efforts to inform Congress and other
government entities of the impact that proposed actions could have on consumers and writes
and distributes information for consumers and businesses.
The FTC works for the consumer to
prevent fraudulent, deceptive and unfair business practices in the
marketplace and to provide information to help consumers spot, stop and
avoid them. To file a
complaint or to get free information
on consumer issues, visit
www.ftc.gov or
call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4261. The
FTC enters Internet, telemarketing, identity theft and other fraud-related
complaints into
Consumer Sentinel, a
secure, online database available to hundreds of civil and criminal law
enforcement agencies in the U.S. and abroad.
|
FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION |
FOR THE CONSUMER |
1-877-FTC-HELP |
www.ftc.gov |
|
The American Apparel Manufacturers Association
The American Apparel Manufacturers Association (AAMA) was established in 1960 through a
merger of trade groups, including the Southern Garment Manufacturers Association, which
was founded in 1934. The mission of today's American Apparel Manufacturers Association is
the same as it was then: to serve as the voice of U.S. companies that manufacture all
types of apparel and are located in virtually every state. In today's era of global
markets, the association's efforts include a focus on international trade issues that can
help AAMA member companies remain competitive both here and abroad.
Over the years, the AAMA and its predecessor organizations have continuously evolved to
help member companies meet a variety of changing needs and conditions. Today's AAMA
provides its members with an array of services, including efforts to facilitate progress
in communications technology, flexible manufacturing techniques and educating the
industry's leaders of tomorrow. We also collaborate with private and public agencies such
as the Federal Trade Commission to help inform companies, government officials and the
public about legal obligations and the development of improved manufacturing standards
that exemplify the industry's commitment to consumers. These and other initiatives are
aimed at a single goal: maintaining a healthy business environment that enables AAMA
member companies to continue producing over 85 percent of the apparel sold at wholesale in
America's $170 billion retail market.
December 1998 |