Types of labels and how to use them
Labels containing information about fibre content fall into two categories: representation labels and disclosure labels.
- A representation label is one that includes information about the textile fibre content of the item the label is applied to. This label may also contain other information not required by the Regulations.
- A disclosure label is a representation label that contains information required under the provisions of the Act and Regulations for a consumer textile article. A disclosure label must be applied so that it is legible and accessible to the prospective consumer at the time of purchase.
Both required and optional information may be shown on the same label.
The label must be legible and accessible to the consumer at the time of purchase. Labels can take a variety of forms, such as:
- woven or printed labels that are sewn flat or along one edge
- printed labels applied by an adhesive or otherwise attached (such as stickers and hang tags)
- labels printed directly on the item (provided the information is together in one place)
- labels printed on a wrapper, package, or container
(Note: When a consumer textile item is sold in a wrapper, package or container, and the disclosure label attached to the article is clearly visible to the prospective purchaser, no further labelling is required. However, if the disclosure label is not visible, the required information must be repeated on the wrapper, package or container in the prescribed manner.)
The permanency of the label depends on the type of product:
Permanent:
A permanent label is one that will remain attached and legible through 10 cleanings of the product. A permanent label is required on many types of textile items sold to consumers.
Non-permanent:
For some types of items, a tag, sticker, wrapper, or other non-permanent label (including pre-printed alphabetical list of generic names with blank spaces beside each name for the insertion of percentages) is acceptable.
Note: For custom-made items such as draperies, furniture, or suits, the fibre content and dealer information may be shown on the invoice, bill of sale, or other document rather than on the item itself, as long as properly labelled samples or swatches are available for the consumer to examine prior to purchase.