[Home](/)/[Resources](/resources)/FTC Labeling Requirements USFTC Compliance # FTC Labeling Requirements The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) enforces labeling requirements for textiles, care instructions, and energy information. Understanding textile labeling rules, care labeling requirements, and EnergyGuide obligations is essential for consumer products. Copy Link[Share on WhatsApp](https://wa.me/?text=https%3A%2F%2Fkrono-labs.com%2Fguides%2Fftc-labeling-requirements) At a glance Key rules 4 Textile requirements 4 FAQs 5 ## Key FTC labeling rules ### Textile Fiber Products Identification Act Requires that textile products be labeled with the generic names and percentages of fibers present, the country of origin, and the manufacturer or dealer identity. Applies to: Textile products including clothing, household textiles, and fabrics Key requirements: Fiber content disclosure, country of origin, manufacturer identity, care instructions ### Care Labeling Rule Requires manufacturers and importers of textile wearing apparel and certain piece goods to provide care instructions on a permanent label. Applies to: Textile wearing apparel and piece goods sold to consumers Key requirements: Washing instructions, drying instructions, ironing instructions, dry cleaning instructions, warnings ### Energy Labeling Rule Requires EnergyGuide labels on major home appliances to help consumers compare energy efficiency and operating costs. Applies to: Refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers, clothes washers, water heaters, and other covered appliances Key requirements: Energy consumption, estimated annual energy cost, energy efficiency comparison ### Wool Products Labeling Act Requires that wool products be labeled with fiber content, country of origin, and manufacturer identity to prevent misbranding. Applies to: Products containing wool including clothing, blankets, and other wool textiles Key requirements: Wool fiber content, country of origin, manufacturer identity, proper use of wool terms ## Textile labeling requirements Fiber Content Disclosure List all fibers in descending order by weight, with percentages. Use generic fiber names (e.g., cotton, polyester, nylon) not trademark names. Country of Origin State where the product was processed or manufactured. Must comply with country of origin marking requirements under customs law. Manufacturer Identity Include the name or RN (Registered Identification Number) of the manufacturer, importer, or other responsible party. Label Placement Label must be conspicuous and accessible. For clothing, typically on the neck or side seam. Must be securely attached. ## Care labeling requirements Washing Instructions Provide washing method (machine, hand, dry clean only), water temperature, and any special precautions. Bleaching Instructions Indicate whether bleach can be used and what type (regular, non-chlorine, or do not bleach). Drying Instructions Specify drying method (tumble dry, line dry, drip dry) and temperature if applicable. Ironing Instructions Indicate ironing temperature and whether ironing is safe. Include warnings if applicable. Dry Cleaning Instructions If dry cleaning is recommended, specify the type of solvent and any special instructions. ## Common compliance mistakes Using trademark fiber names instead of generic names - must use cotton, polyester, etc., not brand names Incorrect country of origin statements - must comply with customs origin rules, not just where shipped from Missing or incomplete care instructions - all relevant care instructions must be provided Using RN incorrectly - RN must be assigned to the actual manufacturer or importer Label not permanently attached - care labels must be permanent, not removable tags Inconsistent labeling between label and advertising - all representations must be consistent ## Frequently asked questions ### What is the difference between the Textile Act and Care Labeling Rule? The Textile Fiber Products Identification Act requires disclosure of fiber content, country of origin, and manufacturer identity. The Care Labeling Rule specifically requires care instructions (washing, drying, ironing, dry cleaning) on textile wearing apparel. Many products must comply with both rules simultaneously. ### Do I need an RN (Registered Identification Number)? An RN is optional but commonly used instead of a company name on textile labels. You can apply for an RN through the FTC if your business is located in the US. Foreign companies must use their full business name and address on labels, as RNs are only available to US-based companies. ### What care instructions must I include? You must include instructions for washing, bleaching, drying, ironing, and dry cleaning as applicable to the product. Instructions must be based on reasonable testing. If a care procedure could harm the product, you must warn against it. 'Dry clean only' is acceptable if supported by testing. ### How do I determine country of origin for textile products? Country of origin for textiles is determined by where the substantial transformation occurred - typically where the fabric was cut and sewn into finished form. This is a customs determination with specific rules of origin. Simply importing fabric and sewing it in the US may qualify as US origin, but rules are complex. ### Are there exemptions from textile labeling requirements? Yes, certain products are exempt such as textiles used for upholstery, floor coverings, and some industrial textiles. Products sold only to institutional buyers may have different requirements. Always verify whether your specific product is covered by the labeling rules. **Disclaimer:** This guide provides general information about FTC labeling requirements. Product-specific determinations require analysis of applicable FTC rules. Always verify current requirements with FTC resources or qualified compliance professionals. 🇺🇸 US roadmap for your product Every standard, document, and test that applies — free, no account required. See your free roadmap[ Want an expert to take your product through 🇺🇸 US compliance for you? One consultant from Krono's compliance team takes your product from requirements to legal sale, with a fixed quote before any work starts. 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