Threading Your Way 

Through the Labeling 

Requirements Under the 

Textile and Wool Acts

55% POLYESTER

45% COTTON

SIZE

M

 10

ADE

65% RAYON RN 00001

IN USA

35% POLYESTER

100% COTTON

EXCLUSIVE OF 

DECORATION

MACHINE WASH WARM

TUMBLE DRY 

MEDIUM

WARM IRON

COMFORTER FILLED, SEWN

AND FINISHED IN USA

WITH SHELL MADE

IN MALAYSIA

Federal Trade Commission • Bureau of Consumer Protection • ftc.gov

Produced in cooperation with the American Apparel & Footwear Association

Dear Apparel or Textile Industry Member:

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) 

are pleased to provide you with a copy of the new and revised Threading Your Way Through the 

Labeling Requirements Under the Textile and Wool Acts. First published in 1998, this plain English handbook was very well received by members of the textile and apparel industry. It has now been 

reprinted with updated and additional information. Once again, the AAFA is proud to underwrite the 

costs of printing this publication.

Threading Your Way will answer most of your questions about the three basic labeling requirements 

under the Textile and Wool Acts — fiber content, country of origin, and manufacturer or dealer identity. It contains many examples to illustrate correct labels. In addition, it briefly summarizes labeling 

requirements for fur products.

Threading Your Way, as well as the full text of the rules and statutes, is available on the FTC’s Web 

site at ftc.gov — click on For Business, then Textile, Wool, Fur and Apparel Matters. To order 

additional copies, write: Consumer Response Center, Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 

20580, or call: 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TDD: 202-326-2502.

Sincerely yours,

Kevin M. Burke

President

American Apparel & Footwear Association

Lydia B. Parnes

Director

Bureau of Consumer Protection

Federal Trade Commission

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

WHO’S COVERED AND WHO’S NOT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

TEXTILE PRODUCTS: WHAT’S COVERED AND WHAT’S NOT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

WOOL PRODUCTS: WHAT’S COVERED AND WHAT’S NOT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

FIBER CONTENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

EXCEPTIONS TO THE FIBER DISCLOSURE REQUIREMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Trimmings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Ornamentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Linings and interlinings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

SECTIONAL DISCLOSURE OF FIBER CONTENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

PILE FABRICS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

FIBER NAMES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

PREMIUM COTTON FIBERS — PIMA, EGYPTIAN, SEA ISLAND, ETC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

WOOL FIBER NAMES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Specialty wool fibers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Other hair or fur fibers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

FIBER TRADEMARKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

On labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

In advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

PRODUCTS CONTAINING UNKNOWN FIBERS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

SALE OF REMNANTS AND PRODUCTS MADE OF REMNANTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

MARKING OF FABRIC SAMPLES OR SWATCHES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

TOLERANCES FOR FIBER CONTENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Textile products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

Wool products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Imported products made entirely abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Unqualified “Made in U.S.A.” labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Products made in the U.S.A. with imported materials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Identification of processing or manufacturing that takes place in the U.S. and abroad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Country names. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

One step removed rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Country of origin in mail order advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

IDENTIFICATION OF MANUFACTURER, IMPORTER, OR OTHER DEALER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

If you use a company name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

If you use a Registered Identification Number (RN). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
How to get an RN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

How to identify the company holding a particular RN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

How to update RN information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Replacing another company’s label with your own . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

MECHANICS OF LABELING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Label placement and attachment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Special exception for hosiery sold in packages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Special requirements for socks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Other products sold in packages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Products with two or more items of the same fiber. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Products with two or more items of different fibers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Bolts of cloth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

ADVERTISING AND CATALOGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Ads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Catalogs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

CONTINUING AND SEPARATE GUARANTIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

RECORD KEEPING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

SUMMARY OF FUR LABELING REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Label information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Mechanics of labeling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Invoices and advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Exemption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Record keeping; Continuing and separate guaranties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

ENFORCEMENT OF THE TEXTILE, WOOL, AND FUR RULES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

FOR MORE INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO COMMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

ENDNOTES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

APPENDICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

FTC Address & Telephone Numbers for questions about the Textile, Wool, and Fur Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . .40

Generic Names for Manufactured Fibers 16 CFR § 303.7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41

ISO Names Permitted, Although Not Listed in Textile Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
1

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 at 

pp.34-36. 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 Care Labeling Rule.

The law requires that 

most textile and wool 

products have a label 

listing:

• Fiber Content

• Country of Origin

• Manufacturer or 

Dealer Identity

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.
2

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 shoes — see p.3)

Handkerchiefs

Scarfs

Bedding — sheets, covers, blankets, 

comforters, pillows, 

pillowcases, quilts, 

bedspreads, and 

pads (but not 

outer coverings 

for mattresses or 

box springs)

Curtains and casements

Draperies

Tablecloths, napkins, and doilies

Floor coverings — rugs, carpets, mats

Towels, washcloths, and dishcloths

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 finished — such as hemming, cuffing, or 

attaching buttons to garments — the products must be labeled.

Ironing board covers and pads

Umbrellas and parasols

Bats or batting

Flags — with heading or more than 

216 sq. inches in size

Cushions

All fibers, yarns and fabrics (except 

packaging ribbons)

Furniture slip covers and other furniture 

covers 

Afghans and throws

Sleeping bags

Antimacassars and tidies (doilies)

Hammocks

Dresser and other furniture scarfs

Covered
3

The following items are not covered by the labeling requirements:7

Upholstery or mattress stuffing (unless 

it’s reused — then the label must say 

that it contains reused stuffing)

Outer coverings of upholstered furniture, mattresses, and box springs

Linings, interlinings, filling, or padding 

used for structural purposes

However, if they are used for 

warmth, the fiber must be disclosed, 

(see p.11). In addition, if you make 

any statement about the fiber content 

of linings, interlinings, filling, or padding, they are no longer exempt.

Stiffenings, trimmings, facings, or 

interfacings (see p.8 for more 

explanation of “trimmings”)

Backings of carpets or rugs 

and paddings or cushions to 

be used under carpets, rugs, 

or other floor coverings8

Sewing and handicraft threads

Bandages, surgical dressings, 

and other products subject 

to the Federal Food, 

Drug and Cosmetic Act9

Waste materials not used 

in a textile product 

Shoes, overshoes, boots, 

slippers and all outer 

footwear. But, socks 

and hoisery are covered; 

in addition, slippers 

made of wool are covered under The Wool 

Rules (see p.6)

Headwear (hats, caps or anything worn exclusively on the head). But, a wool hat 

is covered under The Wool Rules 

(see p.6)

Textiles used in: handbags or luggage10, brushes, lampshades, toys, 

feminine hygiene products, adhesive 

tapes and adhesive sheets, cleaning cloths 

impregnated with chemicals, or diapers.

Not Covered
4

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 on pages 7-19, apply.11

Not Covered Unless

you say something about fiber.

Belts

Suspenders

Arm bands

Neckties that are permanently knotted

Garters

Diaper liners

Labels (individually and in rolls)

Looper clips intended for handicraft purposes

Book cloth

Artists’ canvases

Tapestry cloth

Shoe laces

All textile products manufactured by operators of company stores and sold exclusively

to their own employees 

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

Secondhand household textile items that 

are obviously used or marked as secondhand

Non-woven disposable products intended for one-time use only 

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 

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. 

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
5

Labeling is not required for other products not specifically mentioned in the statute or rules, or for 

non-textile products or components, including:

Auto seat cushions 

Awnings 

Baby equipment — seats, carriers, carriages, strollers, harnesses, etc. 

Bags — net bags, tote bags, bags for 

laundry, diapers, cosmetics, sports gear, 

etc. 

Beach or patio umbrellas

Beads, sequins, buttons

Burial shrouds 

Chair seats for lawn chairs 

Coasters for glasses

Cosmetic masks and travel kits 

Coverings used in churches 

Covers for household items, other than 

furniture and ironing boards: birdcages, 

irons, toasters, mixers, toilet tanks & 

lids, tissue boxes

Covers for sports equipment, such as golf 

clubs, skis, etc.

Cummerbunds

Dog coats, other pet clothing, and pet 

furniture

Drapery pleater tapes 

Dress shields

Eyeglass cases

Filters — all types

Flowers made of fabric

Hangers padded with fabric

Holiday decorations and ornaments

Hosiery hampers

Hot pads

Industrial wiping cloths

Inked ribbons for typewriters, etc.

Knapsacks and backpacks

Leather goods and trim

Life preservers and jackets 

Mops & mop covers 

Notebook covers 

Novelty items 

Oven mitts

Pads for sports equipment, such as toboggans 

Poly-foam and foam rubber

Powder puffs 

Rope

Saddle blankets, camel saddles

Sleeping masks

Sports protectors (for elbow, knee, chest, etc) 

Sweatbands

Tea cozies

Tents

Twine

Venetian blind tapes

Wall coverings

Wall decorations

Wigs

Window shades and shade pulls

Not Covered

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.
6

WOOL PRODUCTS: WHAT’S COVERED AND WHAT’S NOT

Most products that contain any amount of wool — including clothing, blankets, fabrics, yarns, and 

other items — are 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 Rules — such as hats and slippers — are 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
7

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:

65% rayon

35% polyester

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 fibers — contained in yarns, fabrics, clothing, and other 

household items. If part of the product is made from a non-fibrous material — such as plastic, glass, 

wood, paint, metal or leather — you don’t have to include that on your label. That is, you don’t 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:

96% Acetate

4% Spandex

 If nylon is added to a wool garment for durability, the label could say, for example:

96% Wool

4% Nylon

 You don’t have to disclose the functional significance, as long as there is one.
8

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

90% Cotton

4% Polyamide

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 purposes — even 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.”

Note: Collars and cuffs are exempt from fiber content disclosure — whether decorated or 

not decorated. Therefore, decoration on collars and cuffs does not count toward the 

15 percent.
9

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 pp.10 and 11 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

100% Cotton

exclusive of decoration or

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
10

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 product’s 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

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, decorative trim, or decorative pattern or design 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.”

or
11

Linings and interlinings19

If linings, interlinings, fillings, or paddings are used only for structural purposes, you don’t have to 

disclose their fiber. However, if you voluntarily say — or imply — anything 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
12

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 product’s 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 p.8)

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
13

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%)

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 name — and forgo 

the petition process 

— if the name is first 

recognized by the ISO.

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, p.41. In addition, the Commission recognizes the 

names listed in International Organization for Standardization 

(ISO) Standard 2976: 1999(E), “Textiles — Man-made fibres 

— Generic names.” While many of the names listed in the ISO 

standard do not appear in the Commission’s 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

 25 West 43rd St., 4th 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.
14

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 FIBERS — PIMA, 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 garment — such as on a hangtag — the 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 on p.16.)

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
15

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 speciality 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:

97% Wool

3% Cashmere

As with other fiber content disclosures, all parts of the fiber information must be in type of equal size 

and conspicuousness (see p.26). References to the specialty fiber cannot be misleading or deceptive. 

For example, if a jacket has the above label — disclosing that it contains three percent Cashmere — it 

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 fiber — or mixtures thereof — of 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 Hair.

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 p.34).
16

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

100% Tencel® Lyocell

If the trademark doesn’t 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 isn’t. 
17

In advertising29

If a fiber trademark is used in advertising — including advertising on the Internet — the 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 fiber — other than ornamentation — the 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 fiber — other than ornamentation — the 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 isn’t. (See

p.30, for more information on advertising.)

PRODUCTS CONTAINING UNKNOWN FIBERS30

If a textile product is made — in whole or in part — from 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 fibers — rags

All undetermined fibers — textile by-products

100% miscellaneous pieces of undetermined fiber content

Secondhand materials — fiber content unknown

45% Rayon 

30% Acetate 

25% Unknown fiber content 

75% Recycled Wool

25% Unknown Reclaimed Fibers

60% Cotton 

40% Unknown fibers — scraps 

If on the other hand, the fiber content is known or can be readily determined, the full content 

disclosure must be given.
18

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.

Note: Fiber percentages may be rounded to the nearest whole number. For example, 

60.4% Polyester, 39.6% Cotton can be labeled 60% Polyester, 40% Cotton.
19

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. 

The tolerance will not apply if the label indicates that the product is entirely wool, e.g. 100% wool, 

100% cashmere, all wool, or all cashmere.

3%

tolerance
20

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:

U.S. Customs and Border Protection 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 p.2). 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 product’s country of origin.
21

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 doesn’t 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 products — including sheets, towels, comforters, 

handkerchiefs, scarfs, napkins, and other “flat” goods — Customs 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” or “Fabric made in China, cut and sewn in U.S.A.”

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 p.28.)
22

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” don’t 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, p.30.)
23

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.

Note: An RN is not required in order to do business in the U.S.

If you use a company name

The name must be the full name under which the company is doing business. This is the name that 

appears on business documents, such as purchase orders and invoices. It cannot be a trademark, trade 

name, brand, label, or designer name — unless 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 retailer — if 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 retailer’s 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)

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.

The prefix “RN” or “WPL” is part of the 

Registered Identification Number and

must precede the numerals on the label. 
24

You don’t 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 who’s 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

You can apply for an RN online at ftc.gov. Click on For Business, then RN Information, then RN 

Application — Apply Online.

An RN application form (FTC Form 31) is included in the back of this booklet. You can use this form 

or a photocopy of it, if you want to submit a paper application. You also can call or fax the Commission to request an RN application. The application form should be completed by a company official 

and returned to the Commission by mail or fax.

Note: Your application can be processed more quickly if you apply online!

How to identify the company holding a particular RN

The RN database is available at ftc.gov — click on For Business, then RN Information, then RN 

Database — Search.

If you don’t 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.
25

How to update RN information

It’s important to keep the information on your RN application form current. When you move or 

change your name without telling the Commission, the system’s 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. You can update your 

RN information online at ftc.gov. Click on For Business, then 

RN Information, then Update Your RN Information. You 

also can 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.

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, 

you’ve 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.

Replacing another company’s label with your own40
26

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 information — such 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:

80% polyester

20% SILK

• All parts of the required fiber content information must appear in immediate proximity to each 

other.

• You can use other non-deceptive terms that accurately describe the fiber. For example:

• Other non-required information also may appear on the label with the required disclosures. This 

additional information cannot be deceptive or misleading and cannot minimize, detract from, or 

conflict with the required information.

• The country of origin must always be on the front side of the label. Fiber content and the identity 

of the manufacturer or dealer may appear on the back of a label. In that case, the label must be attached to the product only at one end so that the reverse side is accessible to the consumer.

Note: The phrase “Fiber Content on Reverse Side” is no longer required.

• Disclosures must be in English. They also can be in other languages, as long as the English version 

is included.

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 at p.30.)

• The words of required disclosures cannot be abbreviated, designated by ditto marks, or placed in 

footnotes.

Exception for abbreviations of certain country names.(See discussion of country names 

at p.22.)

100% Egyptian 

Cotton

100% crosslinked rayon
27

SOME EXAMPLES OF CORRECT LABELS

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.

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.

100% silk

dry clean only

RN00001

ElegantLinesTM

Size 10

Made in USA

of imported fabric

FRONT OF LABEL BACK OF LABEL

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.

Note: Customs may require that the country of origin of imported goods be on 

a sewn-in label.
28

• 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 neck — either 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.

• The country of origin label should not be covered or obscured by any other label.

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.

Special requirements for socks

Beginning in March 2006, most socks43 must be marked on the front of their packages or labels with 

the English name of the country of origin. This marking must be placed adjacent 

to the size designation. The marking must be done in a manner that is legible, 

indelible, conspicuous, readily accessible to the consumer, and as permanent 

as the nature of the article or package permits.

Exception: A package that contains several different types 

of goods, including socks, is exempt from this special 

requirement. However, such packages and their contents 

are subject to other labeling requirements, as stated below.
29

Other products sold in packages44

For other packaged products — such as T-shirts — the 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.

Note: The provision that required information appear on packages does not apply to 

items packaged solely for mail order shipment.

Products with two or more items of the same fiber45

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 fibers46

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 doesn’t need a label if the bolt or roll is properly labeled.
30

ADVERTISING AND CATALOGS

Ads47

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 label — except for percentages — also 

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.

If an ad triggers fiber content disclosure, the fiber names must 

be listed as they appear on the label — in 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.

Written advertising 

includes Internet 

advertising. It does 

not include shelf or 

display signs indicating 

the location of textile 

products in stores.

Catalogs48

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 p.22 for more information about 

origin disclosures in catalogs.)
31

CONTINUING AND SEPARATE GUARANTIES49

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.

(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.

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.

(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.
32

(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, title-printed]

(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. 
33

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.

RECORD KEEPING50

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.
34

SUMMARY OF FUR LABELING REQUIREMENTS51

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 on pp.23-25.

• The country of origin for imported fur products (including country of origin for imported furs made 

into fur products in the U.S.). E.g., “fur origin: Canada.”

 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.

Note: The Dog and Cat Protection Act of 200052

 prohibits 

importing, exporting, manufacturing, selling, 

trading, advertising, transporting or distributing 

any products made with dog or cat fur.
35

Mechanics of labeling

• Size. Labels must be a minimum of 13/4 by 23/4 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: 

 1. whether the fur is natural or pointed, bleached, dyed, etc.

 2. if the product contains fur that has been sheared, plucked, or let-out (optional)

 3. the adjective form of the name of the country from which the animal originated (optional)

 4. name of the animal

 5. if the fur product is composed of parts

 6. country of origin (stated as “fur origin: [name of country]”)

 7. any other information that is required or permitted

 8. 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 nature — not 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.
36

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 manufacturer’s 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 dog or cat fur

• 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 Commission’s 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.53

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,54 an injunction, and other remedies — including consumer redress — in a federal district court 

action. The Commission can bring a civil penalty case against a company that knowingly engages in 

practices — such as the mislabeling of textile products — that 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.
37

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 are encouraged to visit us at ftc.gov on the Web. This booklet and the Textile, Wool, and Fur 

Rules, as well as the FTC’s Care Labeling Rule, are found by clicking on For Business, then Textile, Wool, Fur and Apparel Matters. Other information relevant to these products, including recent 

cases, industry alerts, Federal Register notices, generic fiber petitions, staff opinion letters, and other 

consumer and business publications, are available at this website.

YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO COMMENT

The National Small Business Ombudsman and 10 Regional Fairness Boards collect comments from 

small businesses about federal compliance and enforcement activities. Each year, the Ombudsman 

evaluates the conduct of these activities and rates each agency’s responsiveness to small businesses. 

Small businesses can comment to the Ombudsman without fear of reprisal. To comment, call toll-free 

1-888-REGFAIR (1-888-734-3247) or go to www.sba.gov/ombudsman.
38

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 Commission’s 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).
39

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(k). These special requirements apply to socks that are classified under 

subheadings 6115.92.90, 6115.93.90, 6115.99.18, 6111.20.60, 6111.30.50,or 6111.90.50 of 

the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the U.S., as in effect on September 1, 2003.

44. 15 U.S.C. § 70b(e) and § 68c(c); 16 C.F.R. § 303.28 and § 300.15.

45. 16 C.F.R. § 303.29(b) and § 300.12(b).

46. 16 C.F.R. § 303.29(a) and § 300.12(a).

47. 15 U.S.C. § 70b(c) and § 68b(e); 16 C.F.R. §§ 303.40, 303.41, and 303.42.

48. 16 C.F.R. § 303.34 and § 300.25a.

49. 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).

50. 15 U.S.C. § 70d and § 68d(b); 16 C.F.R. § 303.39 and § 300.31.

51. 15 U.S.C. § 69, et seq.; 16 C.F.R. Part 301.

52. 19 U.S.C. § 1308.

53. 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.

54. 15 U.S.C. § 45(m)(1)(B).
40

APPENDICES

FTC Address & Telephone Numbers 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: ftc.gov

This booklet and the Textile, Wool, and Fur Rules are found by clicking on For Business.
41

Generic Names for Manufactured Fibers 16 CFR § 303.7

Olefin

 Lastol

PBI

PLA

Polyester

 Elasterell-p

Rayon

 Lyocell

Rubber

 Lastrile

Saran

Spandex

Sulfar 

Vinal

Vinyon

Acetate

 Triacetate

Acrylic

Anidex

Aramid

Azlon

Elastoester

Fluoropolymer

Glass

Melamine

Metallic

Modacrylic

Novoloid

Nylon

Nytril

ISO Names Permitted, Although Not Listed in Textile Rules

Alginate

Carbon

Chlorofibre

Cupro

Elastane

Elastodiene

Fluorofibre

Metal Fibre

Modal

Polyamide

Polyethylene

Polyimide

Polypropylene

Vinylal

Viscose
44

APPLICATION FOR A REGISTERED IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (“RN”)

FTC Form 31 (rev. 9/2000)

 APPLY FOR A NEW RN

 UPDATE INFORMATION ON AN EXISTING RN OR WPL NUMBER. ENTER EXISTING RN OR WPL NUMBER_____________________

INSTRUCTIONS

4. TYPE OF COMPANY (If “OTHER” is checked, please state the type of company.)

 PROPRIETORSHIP PARTNERSHIP  CORPORATION  LLC/LLP  OTHER ___________________________

7. LIST PRODUCTS (To qualify for an RN, a company must be engaged in the importation, manufacturing, selling or other marketing of at least one (1)

 product line subject to the Textile, Wool or Fur Act.)

CONTACT INFORMATION

8. CERTIFICATION

By filing this form with the Federal Trade Commission, the company named above applies for a registered number to use on labels required

by one or more of the following acts: the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act (15 U.S.C. § § 70-70k), the Wool Products Labeling Act (15

U.S.C. § § 68-68j), or the Fur Products Labeling Act (15 U.S.C. § § 69-69k). The company official (proprietor, partner, or corporate officer)

listed below verifies that the information supplied on this form is true and correct.

9. NAME OF COMPANY OFFICIAL (Type or print legibly) 10. TITLE OF COMPANY OFFICIAL 11. DATE SUBMITTED

(c) Submit one (1) completed application:

By Mail to: Federal Trade Commission

Division of Enforcement

600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW

Washington, DC 20580

Or by Fax to: (202) 326-3197

Or Online at: www.ftc.gov

2. LEGAL NAME OF APPLICANT FIRM (Note: Proprietorships, please provide full legal name of the person who is the proprietor)

3. NAME UNDER WHICH APPLICANT DOES BUSINESS (Only if different from legal name)

5. ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL OFFICE OR PLACE OF BUSINESS (Include zip

code. Address must be the actual location where business is conducted in the US.

An additional mailing address or PO box address may also be listed, if desired.)

STREET ADDRESS (Required)

6. TYPE OF BUSINESS (Mark all that apply.)

RN:

DATE ISSUED: UPDATED: BY:

DO NOT WRITE IN THIS SPACE

MANUFACTURING IMPORTING WHOLESALING RETAILING MAIL-ORDERING INTERNET OTHER______________

1. PURPOSE OF APPLICATION. (Both new applicants and update applicants must complete all entries on this form.)

OPTIONAL ADDITIONAL

MAILING ADDRESS

TELEPHONE NUMBER:

(___)___________________

FAX NUMBER:

(___)___________________

E-MAIL ADDRESS:

________@______________

INTERNET URL ADDRESS:

________________________

CANCELLATION POLICY

RNs are subject to cancellation

if the holder fails to promptly

submit an updated FTC Form

31 upon any change(s) in its

legal name (Line#2), type of

company information (Line#4),

or business address (Line#5).

Regulations under the Textile Fiber Products Identification

Act, the Wool Products Labeling Act, and the Fur Products

Labeling Act provide that any USA company that is a

manufacturer or marketer of fiber or fur products may, in

lieu of the name under which it does business, be identified

by its RN on labels required by these statutes.

In completing this form, please observe the following:

(a) All numbered boxes must be filled in except for

optional information.

(b) PLEASE, Type or Print legibly.
45

INSTRUCTIONS

The Textile Fiber Products Identification Act, the Wool Products Labeling

Act, and the Fur Products Labeling Act provide that any marketer or

manufacturer of fiber or fur products covered by those Acts may file a

continuing guaranty with the Federal Trade Commission. A continuing

guaranty on file assures customer firms that the guarantor’s products are

in conformance with the Act(s) under which the guarantor has filed.

Customer firms rely on the continuing guaranties for protection from

liability if violations occur.

In completing this form, please observe the following:

(a) All appropriate blanks on the form should be filled in. Include your

Zip Code in Item 4.

(b) In Item 6, signature of proprietor, partner, or corporate official of

guarantor firm.

CONTINUING GUARANTY

1. LEGAL NAME OF GUARANTOR FIRM

2. NAME UNDER WHICH GUARANTOR FIRM DOES BUSINESS, IF DIFFERENT FROM LEGAL NAME

3. TYPE OF COMPANY

 PROPRIETORSHIP PARTNERSHIP  CORPORATION

4. ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL OFFICE OR PLACE OF BUSINESS (Include Zip Code) OPTIONAL INFORMATION

TELEPHONE NUMBER:

FAX NUMBER:

INTERNET ADDRESS:

5. LAW UNDER WHICH THE CONTINUING GUARANTY IS TO BE FILED (Put an ‘X’ in the appropriate boxes)

Under the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act (15 U.S.C. § § 70-70k): The company named above, which manufactures, markets, or handles

textile fiber products, guarantees that when it ships or delivers any textile fiber product, the product will not be misbranded, falsely or deceptively

invoiced, or falsely or deceptively advertised, within the meaning of the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act and the rules and regulations under

that Act.

Under the Wool Products Labeling Act (15 U.S.C. § § 68-68j): The company named above, which manufactures, markets, or handles wool products,

guarantees that when it ships or delivers any wool product, the product will not be misbranded within the meaning of the Wool Products Labeling Act

and the rules and regulations under that Act.

Under the Fur Products Labeling Act (15 U.S.C. § § 69-69k): The company named above, which manufactures, markets, or handles fur products,

guarantees that when it ships or delivers any fur product, the product will not be misbranded, falsely or deceptively invoiced, or falsely or deceptively

advertised, within the meaning of the Fur Products Labeling Act and the rules and regulations under that Act.

6. CERTIFICATION

Under penalty of perjury, I certify that the information supplied on this form is true and correct.

7. NAME (Please print or type) 8. TITLE

9. CITY AND STATE WHERE SIGNED 10. DATE

(c) Send two completed, signed original copies to:

Federal Trade Commission

Division of Enforcement

600 Pennsylvania Ave, NW

Washington, DC 20580

(d) Do not fax application - mail signed originals only.

Continuing guaranties filed with the Commission continue in effect until

revoked. The guarantor must immediately notify the Commission in writing

of any change in business status. Any change in the address of the

guarantor’s principal office and place of business must also be promptly

reported.

FTC Form 31-A (rev. 11/98)

DO NOT USE THIS SPACE

Filed _______________ 19 _____

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

________________________________________________________________

SIGNATURE OF PROPRIETOR, PRINCIPAL PARTNER, OR CORPORATE OFFICIAL






FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

The Federal Trade Commission (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 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.

AMERICAN APPAREL & FOOTWEAR ASSOCIATION

The American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) is the national trade association 

representing apparel, footwear, and other sewn products companies, and their suppliers, 

which compete in the global market. AAFA’s mission is to promote and enhance its 

members’ competitiveness, productivity, and profitability in the global market by 

minimizing regulatory, commercial, political, and trade restraints.

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

FTC.GOV

AMERICAN APPAREL & FOOTWEAR ASSOCIATION

AMERICANAPPAREL.ORG

May 2005