Underwear Care Label Requirements: Complete FTC Compliance Guide

Understanding Underwear Care Label Requirements for B2B Trade

Underwear care label requirements are key rules for B2B trade. In fact, all textile items sold in the USA must have care labels. Therefore, if you sell mens underwear, you must know these rules. The FTC sets strict care label compliance standards. As a result, good labels help buyers trust your brand and pass customs fast.

Moreover, care labels must be clear and easy to read. They must also stay on the item for its full life. In addition, the label must not fade or fall off. Furthermore, poor labels can cause fines and delays. Thus, knowing underwear care label requirements saves time and money.

FTC Care Label Compliance Rules You Must Know

The FTC Care Label Rule started in 1971. Since then, it was updated in 1983. Consequently, all textile items now need care labels. In particular, mens underwear falls under this rule. Additionally, the FTC labeling rules apply to all imported goods.

First, care labels must show one safe wash method. Second, they must show one safe dry method. Third, if bleach is not safe, the label must say so. Finally, if ironing is needed, the label must state the heat level. Therefore, care label compliance is not optional.

Content Label Rules for USA Market

In addition to care labels, content labels are also required. Specifically, the Textile Fiber Act sets these rules. As a result, all textile items sold in the USA need content labels. This includes mens underwear without exception.

Furthermore, the label must list all fibers by weight. Fibers over 5% must be named clearly. However, fibers under 5% can be called "other fiber". In total, the percentages must add up to 100%.

• First, list fibers from most to least by weight
• Second, use generic fiber names like "cotton" or "polyester"
• Third, show percent for each fiber type
• Finally, round to the nearest whole number

Country of Origin Label Requirements

Similarly, the country of origin label is also required. In fact, US Customs rules mandate this label. Therefore, all imported goods must have it. Consequently, mens underwear is no exception to this rule.

The label must clearly say "Made in [Country]". Moreover, it must be easy to read and in English. Additionally, it cannot be hidden or removed easily. US Customs strictly enforces these underwear care label requirements.

How to Place Labels on Underwear

Label placement greatly affects buyer comfort. For example, poor placement causes skin irritation. On the other hand, good placement keeps labels hidden but readable. As a result, most brands use the center back waistband.

• First, center back waistband is most common
• Second, side seam works for tagless styles
• Third, heat transfer labels reduce bulk
• Finally, woven labels last longer than printed

Tagless Printing as a Care Label Compliance Option

Notably, tagless printing puts label info directly on fabric. As a result, this method is very popular for underwear. In addition, it removes the itch factor. Therefore, many buyers prefer tagless styles for comfort.

Heat transfer labels are one tagless option. Similarly, screen printing is another choice. However, both methods must still meet FTC labeling rules. In other words, the print must last for the item's full life.

Label Size and Font Requirements

Importantly, label size matters for care label compliance. The text must be large enough to read clearly. Although there is no set font size rule, the FTC says it must be "conspicuous". Therefore, choose your font size with care.

Most brands use 6 to 8 point font for labels. Additionally, sans-serif fonts are easier to read. Furthermore, black text on white background works best. In conclusion, good contrast helps buyers read labels fast.

Common Label Mistakes to Avoid

Unfortunately, many suppliers make label errors. These errors can cause customs delays. Moreover, they can also lead to fines. Therefore, knowing common mistakes helps you avoid them.

• Missing fiber content label percentages
• Wrong country of origin label information
• Care symbols without text explanation
• Labels that fade after first wash
• Using brand names instead of generic fiber names

Working with China Underwear Suppliers on Labels

Most underwear comes from China today. China underwear suppliers know underwear care label requirements well. In fact, good factories have label experts on staff. As a result, they help ensure your labels meet all requirements.

First, ask your supplier for label samples. Then, check the samples for accuracy. Additionally, make sure care instructions match your fabric. Finally, verify country of origin label is correct. View our products to learn more about quality labels.

Label Costs and Lead Times for B2B Buyers

Label costs vary by type and quantity. For instance, woven labels cost more than printed ones. Additionally, heat transfer has setup fees. Therefore, budget for label costs in your product pricing.

Order labels early in your production timeline. Late labels can delay your whole order. Moreover, keep extra labels on hand for future runs. Contact us to get a quote on compliant labels today.