How to identify the fiber content?
Jersey Fabric,Slub Jersey,Double Jacquard,Poly Rayon Span SHAOXING LINGGE TEXTILE CO., LTD. , https://www.lingertex.com
August 26, 2025
Fiber content is one of the most important quality indicators for textile products. It directly reflects the quality and value of the product, and plays a key role in determining whether a product is genuine or not. Additionally, it helps consumers make informed purchasing decisions by providing clear information about the materials used.
In recent years, fiber content issues have become a recurring problem in market supervision and random inspections across China. Some well-known brands have even been found to have non-compliant fiber content labels, raising concerns among both regulators and consumers.
To address these concerns, China Textile Economy Information invited Qian Tian, Deputy Manager of Intertek China Market Division, to provide insights into common fiber content labeling issues through a question-and-answer format.
Why is fiber content labeling important?
Labeling fiber content is the most direct way for manufacturers to communicate the material composition of their products to consumers. It serves as a commitment from the company to its customers, ensuring transparency and trust. For consumers, this information is essential in understanding the properties of the garment they are purchasing, allowing them to choose the right product based on their needs.
What standards must be followed for fiber content labeling?
According to the national standard GB 5296.4-1998, "Guidelines for the use of consumer products – Textiles and clothing," all product instructions must include fiber content information. The specific labeling rules are outlined in FZ/T 01053-2007, which provides detailed guidelines for identifying and marking fiber content.
How should fiber names be labeled?
There are two main rules:
1. Fiber names must follow the official names specified in national or industry standards. They cannot be replaced with abstract, trendy, or substitute terms. Natural fibers should use names defined in GB/T 11951, chemical fibers in GB/T 4146.1, and down feathers in GB/T 17685.
2. For fibers without standardized names, they can be labeled as "new (natural, recycled, synthetic) fibers." In some cases, references to FZ/T 01053, Appendix C may be used.
Where should fiber content be labeled?
According to GB 5296.4, each product must have a durable label indicating the fiber content. This label can also be combined with other product instructions. If different types of labels are used, the fiber content must remain consistent. For items like fabric, wool, or socks, where a durable label might not be practical, alternative labels such as tags may be used.
How should fiber content be labeled in complete sets or special packaging?
Several scenarios apply:
- If the product is sold as a whole unit and cannot have a durable label, the fiber content can be marked per sales unit if all items have the same composition.
- If the packaging prevents clear visibility of the fiber content, the information must be clearly displayed on the package.
- If the package contains multiple items with different fiber contents, each item must have its own label.
- If the entire set has the same fiber content and is delivered as a single unit, only one label is needed.
- If the product is not sold directly to the end consumer, the fiber content information can be included in commercial documents instead.
Can fiber content labels be in English?
Labels must be clear and legible, using Chinese characters as required by regulations. While other languages may be used alongside, the primary text must be in Chinese.
What are the requirements for durable fiber content labels?
Durable labels must be safe for human contact and placed in a visible, accessible location. They should not be covered or hidden by other parts of the product.
Which parts of the product require fiber content labeling?
All fabric, lining, and filling materials must be clearly labeled with their respective percentages. Decorative elements such as lace, ruffles, collars, cuffs, and pockets that make up less than 15% of the total surface area may not need to be labeled.
Can the brand name be included on the fiber content label?
No, brand names cannot be used in place of fiber names. For example, “Lycra†should be labeled as “elastic fiber,†and “Tiansi†should be labeled as “Lyocell fiber.â€
Can functional fiber names be used?
Currently, it is not allowed. Functional fibers such as conductive fibers are difficult to identify through conventional testing methods, and no clear standards exist for their labeling.
Can fiber content be labeled with the place of origin?
In certain cases, yes. For example, wool from Merino sheep or Angora rabbit hair can be labeled with their origin, provided there is a certificate of origin. However, for most materials, the origin cannot be labeled due to lack of testing standards.
Can organic cotton be labeled?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. Organic cotton must be certified by an authorized organization and meet strict environmental and production standards. Simply testing the material is not sufficient to confirm its organic status.