10 Questions You Should to Know about functions and requirements of clothing labels leading

09 Sep.,2024

 

Clothing Labeling Regulations: A Guide for Garment Makers

Garment labeling has been a part of clothing production for a long time, but it still requires attention. You need to comply with the local regulations and laws, such as those issued by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and this simple guide will show you the information that is mandatory. Moreover, we&#;ll tell you about some other details that you can include to enhance your customer service.

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1. Why are clothing labels important?

A label not only identifies your clothing and brand, but also provides instructions that help the customer maintain the garment for a long time after buying it. The standards for care labeling are so important that consumer protection agencies in the US, Canada and other countries have strict regulations on clothing labeling. Furthermore, some independent organizations, such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), have their own labeling standards that companies must adhere to if they want to get certified.

The garment label standards of different countries have a common goal of protecting consumers, but they also have some significant differences that you need to be aware of if you plan to sell clothing or household textile items internationally. A simple tag on the inside center area of a garment saying &#;Made in the USA&#; is not enough, but we&#;ll help you understand the complicated legal framework around garment care information labeling to help you make your company name popular all over the world.

2. Clothing labeling regulations in different regions

Clothing and textile labeling is not a one-size-fits-all affair. Different countries have different watchdogs that oversee and enforce the rules. In the United States, the FTC and the CPB call the shots. In the UK, the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy is the boss, but local agencies may also have a say. The European Commission lays down the law in the EU, but member nations may add their own twists. In Australia, PSA is the guardian; in New Zealand, it is the Commerce Commission.

2.1 Labeling Regulations and Requirements in the USA

Labeling standards for textile products for domestic and foreign textile manufacturers are developed by the FTC and the CPB, in the US. These standards are outlined below:

1. Fiber Content

The Textile and Wool Acts mandate that all garments sold in the US must bear labels that disclose their fiber contents. The labels must list the fibers in descending order of their percentage by weight in the garment. Non-fibrous materials are exempt from this requirement.

Fibers that impart a function to the garment must be identified, but non-functional fibers may be aggregated as &#;other fibers&#; if they constitute less than 5 percent each of the garment.

Decorative items, such as ribbons and buckles, are not required to be identified if they make up less than 15 percent of the garment. If a textile product has ornamentation that represents less than 5 percent of its composition, it may also be excluded, but the label must state &#;Exclusive of Ornamentation&#; at the bottom. The lining must be marked separately and all textile materials must be named by their generic names rather than their trade names.

2. Country of Origin

The country of origin must be disclosed on all clothing labels as per the FTC&#;s requirement. A textile product can only bear the label &#;Made in the USA&#; if it was manufactured in the USA and it consists of materials that were also manufactured in the United States. If a garment was manufactured in the United States from materials that originated in another country, its label must state &#;Made in the USA of Imported Materials.

3. Washing and Care Instructions

The FTC enforces the Care Labeling Rule, which obliges all textile manufacturers who sell products in the US to provide labels that guide consumers on how to care for their products correctly. For example, care practices that could damage the clothing must be disclosed and recommended washing temperatures are also required. These labels must be readable, clear, and durable enough to last the garment&#;s lifetime.

4. Manufacturer Identification

This part of the FTC&#;s garment labeling codes also helps you promote your brand. The registered identification number (RN) of the manufacturer, importer, or corporate entity that sells the product must appear on the garment label of a textile product sold in the US. All domestic textile companies and importers must have RNs. This number identifies the dealer, and you can further strengthen your brand identity by adding the name of the manufacturer on your garment label.

5. Label Placement

All of the FTC&#;s required information can be included on one label, or this information can be divided into separate labels. These labels must stay attached to the garment until it reaches the consumer, which means that this FTC-required information cannot be included on hang tags. Country of origin information must be placed on the inside center of the neck if a garment has a neck, and other labels must be located in easily visible locations.

2.2 Labeling Regulations and Requirements in the UK

Even though clothing labels are small, they must include specific information that is clear to the consumer. The following information is required on a label according to UK regulations:

1. Fiber Content

The Government&#;s Textile Labeling Regulations require you to display the fiber content of your garment clearly on your label. The clothing label must specify the main fiber component&#;s content in the garment as a percentage, such as &#;100% cotton&#;.

The regulations define some materials and how to label them such as &#;pure&#; or &#;100%&#;, etc. They also describe the general terms and how to verify the clothing ingredients.

If you are selling to other locations outside of the UK, you will have to follow different regulations and labeling rules.

2. Country of Origin Label

This information is not mandatory in garment production in the UK. However, as part of trading regulations, it is vital to state the country the product was made. This is required so that brands don&#;t deceive customers about where the item was created. For instance: Clothing with a UK design but a Chinese production must clearly indicate &#;Made in China&#; on the label.

Received message. Here is a possible rewrite of your message in a different way but still in the same style: This information is not mandatory in garment production in the UK. However, as part of trading regulations, it is vital to state the country the product was made. This is required so that brands don&#;t deceive customers about where the item was created. For example, if your clothing is designed in the UK but manufactured in China, &#;Made in China&#; has to be clearly displayed.

3. Washing and Care Instructions

Care and washing instructions on clothing are not a mandatory part of clothing labels in the UK, but they are highly recommended to help the customer in prolonging the life of the garment. Washing and care instructions for the garment are considered as standard practice by most manufacturers during the manufacturing process. You should work with your supplier to ensure the information is helpful and clear to your customers.

Depending on your target consumer audience, you can include brief, catchy care instructions such as:

  • Wash inside out

  • Dry flat 

  • Iron on reverse 

  • Wash similar colors together 

  • Reshape while damp 

  • Dry-clean only

There is also a set of universal symbols used in Europe named GINETEX that indicate specific wash and care requirements. The main types of symbols are five in total:

  • Washing temperature and type 

  • Drying

  • Ironing temperatures 

  • Bleaching options 

  • Dry cleaning only

4. Flammable Garments

Your clothing label must show that you meet BS-, the British Standard for flammability, if you make specific types of clothing like children&#;s clothing, baby clothing, and nightwear.

You have to state on the label, &#;KEEP AWAY FROM FIRE.&#; if clothing does not meet these standards. This wording must have some specific font and character requirements to ensure it can be seen clearly. It must be in bold and red Arial font and in capital letters of at least size 10pt. This is a mandatory labeling standard that cannot be violated. non-compliance with the regulations may result in severe harm to consumers.

5. Label Placement

You should clearly indicate the position of your label when you finish your tech pack. Most clothing manufacturers will put a label on the inside seam of the garment for convenience. This way it is easy to locate but hidden from the outside.

The length of the label will depend on the amount of information you need to include. Make sure all information is clearly visible by thinking about the label&#;s placement in the design and talking to your clothing manufacturer.

6. Brand Information and Style Numbers

Clothing production relies heavily on branding, and a tiny label can have a huge impact. The label is the first thing they look at especially if they&#;ve had the garment for a while, when many consumers get questions like &#;Where did you buy that?&#; or &#;What size is that?&#; from others. 

A logo is enough since you have limited space. You can normally place it on the top or bottom of the small satin label that is stitched into the side of your garment. This also matches the main inside neck branding and size information.

7. Other Information

For brands that have unique qualifications or prizes, this information can be shown on the garment label. Details such as eco-friendly production or natural fiber content can also be displayed here.

2.3 Labeling Regulations and Requirements in the EU

Textile products that are sold in the member countries of the EU must follow a set of rules that the EU has created for their labeling. These textile labels must be given in the local language of the member state where the garments are sold, and they must also contain the following information:

1. Fiber Content

The fiber content of textile products marketed within the European Union must be plainly labeled in a reachable area. The label containing this information must be firmly attached and lasting, and this information should not include abbreviations except for internationally standardized automated processing codes.

Only textile products that are made entirely of one fiber can be labeled as &#;100 percent ,&#; and ornamental fibers present in concentrations of less than 7 percent need not be labeled. Moreover, it is not necessary to label antistatic substances that are present in concentrations of less than 2 percent, but any non-textile components of animal origin must be indicated.

2. Country of Origin

Regulation regarding disclosure of country of origin is not standardized within the EU. Some member countries may demand this type of labeling, but others may not.

3. Washing and Care Instructions

Care labeling is not mandatory under EU law, but some member countries, such as Austria, may require this labeling. The EU can make manufacturers liable for defective products under the Product Liability Directive if they fail to provide this information, so it is strongly recommended to include care labeling with textile products that are sold in the European Union.

4. Manufacturer Identification

Manufacturer identification is not obligatory under EU law. However, you are strongly encouraged to include your branding information with items marketed in the European Union to enhance your brand visibility.

5. Other Factors

Regulation regarding specific label placement is not standardized within the EU. However, exporters to this bloc should be aware of the significance of the European &#;Ecolabel,&#; which is available for both food and natural textile products.

To obtain an Ecolabel, manufacturers must apply for certification from the European Ecolabeling Board. In addition, it&#;s important to keep in mind that the EU has highly strict requirements for the safety of textile products, and if your products are not in accordance with these requirements, they will not be permitted inside the European Union.

2.4 Labeling Regulations and Requirements in Australia

To sell their products in Australia, textile makers need to comply with these labeling rules:

1. Fiber Content

Fiber content labeling is no longer compulsory in Australia. This type of labeling was mandatory until , but it expired in when the Australian Consumer Law came into effect. However, listing the percentage of each fiber in descending order is still considered the best practice in this country.

However, the state of New South Wales (NSW) in Australia still has fiber content labeling rules. To sell textile products in this state, it is necessary to follow these rules. It is required to adhere to these regulations to sell textile products in this state.

2. Country of Origin

Items that are made entirely in Australia, partly in Australia, or entirely imported have different labeling requirements. 

The Competition and Consumer Act , Commerce Act , and Customs Act specify these requirements.

3. Washing and Care Instructions

Australia has strict care labeling laws that are implemented by the ACCC. Care labels in Australia must give consumers information on how to:

  • Look after textile products

    For more functions and requirements of clothing labels leadinginformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

  • Know cleaning costs, such as dry cleaning, related to the purchase of a textile product

  • Use the right water temperature to wash products

  • Extend the usable life of textile products

  • Avoid damage to other clothing during washing.

4. Manufacturer Identification

Manufacturer identification labeling is not clearly required in Australia. However, it is essential to properly label your products if you want to boost your brand awareness.

5. Other Factors

Australian law used to mandate clothing to follow rigid size standardization rules. However, this regulation was repealed in .

3. What happens if you don&#;t follow the clothing labeling regulations

Each country has its own labeling regulations and penalties for non-compliance with these laws. In the United States, there are no fixed fines for violating labeling laws, but the FTC has pursued textile companies vigorously when they do not label their products properly.

For example, this regulatory body hit both Tommy Hilfiger and Jones Apparel with $300,000 fines when these companies failed to provide proper labeling, and other companies, such as Mohl Fur Company, have paid out similarly high fines for failing to disclose the countries of origin of their products. Regulatory bodies in other nations are equally likely to prosecute any failures to comply with their labeling laws, so strict compliance with the relevant legislation is highly advised.

4. The Differences Between Adult and Children&#;s Clothing Labeling Requirements

Both adults and children have the same apparel labeling requirements in the United States. The EU has specific safety requirements for textile products made for children, but not different labeling requirements. The UK requires flammability labels for some childrenswear, but Australia does not have separate labeling requirements for adults and children.

5. The Benefits of Partnering with Reliable Clothing Manufacturers for Labeling

Labeling practices for garments are often established by garment factories. However, you can collaborate with your selected manufacturing partner to create your label for your brand. This process is easy, and with expert help, you will comply with local and international regulations without difficulty.

GM CORP. is a reputable manufacturer and supplier of custom clothing labels. We offer labeling solutions that help you comply with national labeling regulations and enhance your brand image in the market.

If you need custom clothing labeling, please get in touch with us by the information below.

Different Types of Clothing Labels and Their Purpose

As we all know, clothing labels are an essential component of clothing accessories. They're not just a piece of fabric or a set of tags. They can record the brand logo, clothing size, ingredient list, and the country of origin, manufacturer, and care instructions, among other things.

Many customers base their purchasing decisions on the label. As a result, product labels are critical to sales. In addition, this article discusses four different types of clothing labels.

Classified by materials

Metal labels

Metal labels are metal tags and accessories that can be engraved with brand logos for clothing, hats, and bags.

Aluminium labels, stainless steel labels, silver labels, copper or brass labels, zinc alloy labels, and so on are all examples of metal labels. Metal labels are then widely used, and processes include stamping, printing, and laser cutting, among others.

Leather labels

Leather labels are one of the many types of labels made of leather. Leather tags or leather patches are other names for them. Artificial(PU), genuine(real), and suede(microfiber) leather labels are available.

It's perfect for jackets, denim, caps, and bags, among other things. You can use printing, embossing, or gold/silver hot stamping to add personalised logos and metal tags to any leather label. Stitched on, ironed on, stuck on, or Velcro are all options for adding.

PVC(rubber, silicone) labels

PVC labels are made of flexible PVC rubber. Polyvinyl chloride is its full name. Rubber labels include PVC and silicone. They are also a special tag and patch sewing for clothing such as jackets, bags, hats, canvas, and outdoor items.

A company logo or brand name can be added to most PVC labels to help them stand out. As a result, you can sew Velcro, self-adhesive, soft magnet backings to them. However, attach them in your unique manner.

Fabric labels

Fabric labels are durable and soft cloth fabric materials, including woven and printed fabric labels.

Satin, nylon, taffeta, polyester, tape, ribbon, non-woven fabric, and cotton fabric are used. As a result, they're perfect for t-shirts, coats, shirts, pants, and children's clothing.

TPU labels

TPU labels, also known as clear clothing labels, are soft, thin labels printed with logos on rubber-like materials. TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is their primary material. As a result, it is more environmentally friendly than silicone and PVC.

Classified by functions

Main label

When using labels, a piece of clothing must have the main label. The main label is a woven, printed, heat transfer, or leather method of adding the brand logo and name to the fabric. It's usually under the top's inner and back collar or the bottom's inner and back middle seam.

Care labels

Care labels are garment wash labels and care symbols that identify the fabric composition, clothing care information, and proper washing methods.

In general, factories or brands will include washing instructions on labels and the company's logo and size.

Size labels

Clothing labels that print or weave a specific size on the garment are known as size labels. Sizes for clothing, bedding, shoes, and bags include S, M, L, and XL.

Printed and woven size labels are two types of size labels. Polyester and cotton, satin, nylon, and other materials are used. They also use laser-cut or hot-cut methods. When people go shopping, the first thing they do is check the size of the clothing to determine if it is suitable for them.

Hang tags

Hang tags are clothing swing tags that print brand logos or product information on paper, plastic, metal, leather, or fabric&#;price, care symbols, contact information, social media or website links, brand stories, etc.

A brief description and design of the products are printed on the tags. As a hangtag, some certificates are attached to the products (See creative hang tag ideas for your branding).

Flag labels

Small clothing labels are attached to the outside bottom of fabrics, clothing, beddings, and other items.

It will usually print or weave the brand logo and company name to indicate where it belongs.

Classified by sewing ways

Iron-on labels

Iron-on labels are adhesive heat backing that can be peeled off and ironed on fabrics. Then you'll have perfect iron-on labels that are water-resistant, durable, and skin-friendly.

As a result, they're great for tees, shirts, t-shirts, pants, uniforms, and more. It can then print the personalised brand logo and name, contact information, websites, or care symbols, among other things.

Heat transfer labels

Heat transfer labels are the main labels for clothing that heat press a logo or design onto special transfer paper, synthetic film, or plastic film. Then, peel off the film and apply it to the fabric of your choice. As a result, they're also known as tagless tags or thermal transfer labels. It is, of course, ideal for t-shirts.

Sewing labels

Sewing labels are a type of clothing label that can be sewn onto any fabric. On the other hand, its edges usually leave grooves and holes that can be sewn.

Sewing labels include any sewing label that can be used to sew. Some examples are woven labels, printed labels, leather, fabric, PVC, and metal labels.

Metal labels with rivets and bendable leg

Metal tags and labels can be attached in two ways. Use the bendable leg or rivets to attach it. Customers usually have two options when customising metal labels for clothing, hats, bags, and other items. They're also simple to add to the items.

Classified by manufacturing processes

Woven labels

Woven labels, woven from fabrics such as damasks, polyester, satins, taffetas, and cotton, are a main label for clothing brands.

Labels come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Cotton woven labels, selvage woven labels, damask woven labels, satin woven labels, crochet woven labels, and iron-on woven labels are examples of woven labels.

Printed labels

Printed labels are frequently found inside clothing labels and are used to print logos, product information, company names, contact information, and website links to improve brand image.

TPU, ribbons, cotton, satin, nylon, polyester, taffeta, canvas, tape, and leather are among their materials. They come in various shapes and sizes, including care or wash labels, size labels, and so on.

Hot-stamped leather labels

Most leather labels are made by hot pressing (high temperature and timed ironing). There's also high-frequency voltage, silkscreen, laser, sewing, embroidery, hardware, etc. Hot-stamped leather labels are most commonly found on the back waist of jeans, but they can also be found on bags, handbags, shoes, and hats.

First-layer leather, second-layer leather, microfiber leather, artificial(PU and PVC) leather, and synthetic leather are product materials. The leather label can be attached to items using 3M glue, Velcro, punching, piercing, etc. As a result, they are appropriate for clothing, home furnishings, and other applications.

Casting metal & PVC labels

Stamping and die-casting are commonly used on metal labels and some PVC labels. They are an effective method of producing labels. Each product can be protected from oxidation and fading by plating and sealing glaze because the finished products will be long-lasting and smooth.

Embroided labels

An embroidered label is a clothing design made up of overlapping thread stitches. Flat, 3D, towel, sequins, cloth, toothbrush, hand-beaded, mixed embroidery labels, and so on are the most common types of embroidery labels. The following methods can be used to add backing to embroidered labels:

Bags, hats, jackets, and other items with an iron-on backing Sewing: attaching garments to machines for long-term use; Clothing with adhesive backing is ideal for short-term use. Down jackets, coats, and other items with Velcro (hook and loop) backing are easy to put on and take off.

High-frequency labels

A high-frequency label uses high-frequency skills to fuse silicone/PVC material into felt fabric. Felt label is another name for it. The label can also be used for a variety of things. Clothing, gifts, toys, shoes, bows, and decorating ribbons are just a few examples.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do brand labels mean?

A brand label is a small piece of fabric that features your company or personal information and is most commonly found on clothing labels. Still, it can also be found on a variety of other products. You could include something as simple as a logo or some wording, or more information such as website information, a tagline, simple washing instructions, or more.

Labels are all about expressing a distinct identity and distinguishing a product from the competition. Companies that want to express their brand identity should use brand labels. The more complicated your design is, the larger the label must be, increasing your production costs.

What do your brand's labels mean to you?

Custom brand labels give your product a distinct identity that distinguishes it from the competition. When designing your products, the most important factor is your brand's identity. What are your credentials? What exactly do you do? What is the ethos of your company? What is your target market? Your custom brand logo and description can express the answers to these questions.

Your brand identity will persuade customers that your product is the right one for them. Brand labels are the best way to express your brand identity visually. Products without brand labels appear amateurish and unprofessional. Choosing to use custom brand labels for your company can help you stand out from the crowd and make your product more easily identifiable.

Which regulatory bodies are in charge of clothing labelling?

The European Commission is in charge of textile and clothing labelling in the EU, but member countries may have labelling requirements. The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy in the United Kingdom is in charge of developing and enforcing textile labelling regulations. However, local law enforcement agencies may be responsible for enforcing these rules in some cases.

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