What kind of care instruction is required on apparel labels?

AAFA has created an international labeling matrix to aid members in navigating specific apparel and footwear labeling regulations--including care instructions. AAFA's International Apparel & Footwear Labeling Matrix provides a general overview of the mandatory labeling requirements for adult apparel and footwear in 37 countries. This member-only resource is a direct response to input from AAFA members who have and are seeking to expand their business internationally and may ned additional help navigating international labeling requirements.

The Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Care Labeling Rule requires manufacturers and importers to attach care instructions to garments. Labels for clothing must have a washing instruction or a dry-cleaning instruction. If the item can be washed and dry-cleaned, the label needs only one of these instructions. However, you may want to consider that consumers like having washing instructions for items that can be washed. If you prefer, you can give instructions for both washing and dry-cleaning.

For more information on complying with the Care Labeling Rule, visit the Federal Trade Commission's Clothes Captioning Guide.