Textiles: Fiber Content, Origin and Responsible Business

The Textile Act and Part 303 cover specified textile fiber products and commercial activities, with exclusions and conditional exemptions. Apparel and household textiles are important categories, but every fabric-containing object is not covered identically. A product containing wool can have different coverage under the Wool Act. Establish the product category before selecting label requirements. FTC coverage guide.

Covered labels generally disclose generic fiber names and percentages by weight in descending order. Special provisions address small fiber amounts, ornamentation and other circumstances. A trademark or a supplier’s marketing name is not automatically the required generic name. Reconcile the statement with the actual material specification and evidence for the finished product. Part 303.

The rules require origin information and identification of the manufacturer or another responsible business. An eligible FTC registered identification number can be used in place of the business name where permitted. The RN is not a manufacturing license, product approval or evidence that production occurred in the United States. FTC rule explanation.

Required disclosures must meet the applicable presentation and placement rules. Packaging, multi-part products and certain hang-tags require attention to specific provisions. Online descriptions and advertisements that make fiber-content representations also need assessment. Decorative branding should not obscure the required information or create an impression inconsistent with the complete fiber statement. FTC labeling guide.

Part 303 includes recordkeeping and guaranty provisions. Supporting records should connect the stated composition and origin to the goods actually purchased and sold. The conditions for a legal guaranty matter; an ordinary invoice or an unsupported overseas assurance should not be treated as equivalent protection. Investigate inconsistencies rather than relying on a label mechanically. Records and guaranties.

Identify coverage, verify fiber names and composition, establish origin and business identity, then review the finished label and advertising. Retain the evidence supporting those decisions. Care instructions and applicable flammability requirements are separate subjects. A complete Part 303 label does not establish that a garment meets every safety or care-labeling obligation. FTC textile rule resource.