Product compliance · Fibre + care + REACH
Apparel and textiles
Fibre composition, care labelling, REACH restrictions and textile EPR in France and other markets.
Key facts
| EU route | Textile labelling, REACH restrictions, GPSR traceability |
|---|---|
| US route | FTC fibre, origin and care labels; sleepwear flammability |
| UK route | UK textile labelling and chemical restrictions |
| Core tests | Fibre composition, colourfastness, REACH/AZO |
| Key documents | Composition report, care testing, supplier declarations |
| Recurring | Textile EPR in France and expanding schemes elsewhere |
| Typical one-off budget | USD 200–1,500 per fabric and colourway |
| Last verified | 2026-10-17 |
The label is a legal document
Fibre composition and care instructions are regulated, not descriptive. A wrong percentage or a missing language can make the garment non-compliant even when the fabric is safe. The label also identifies the importer or responsible party in many markets.
Care labelling has a practical edge: a care instruction that damages the garment can create a consumer complaint that the label was wrong. Test the care regime with the fabric, not only the fibre percentages.
Chemical restrictions follow the dyehouse
REACH restricts azo dyes, nickel release and other substances, and the evidence usually comes from the fabric mill rather than the garment assembler. A supplier declaration without test data is a weak link in the file, especially for dark colours and children's wear.
France and a growing number of markets add textile EPR, with fees based on units placed on the market. The registration is separate from the label, and it recurs annually.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use one care label worldwide?
The symbols are increasingly harmonised, but fibre-content rules, languages and importer details differ. Check the destination before printing.
Is children's clothing tested differently?
Yes in several markets. The US has flammability rules for children's sleepwear, and drawstrings and small parts attract additional scrutiny.
Do I need EPR for textiles?
France has a textile EPR scheme; other countries are introducing or considering them. Check the current list for each destination.
Ask a compliance question
Free first answer by email. Tell us the destination, the product and the channel — we will point you to the rule and the official source. No obligation, no sales sequence.