Guide to the Textile Labelling and Advertising Regulations

Enforcement guidelines

September 2000

Table of contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Objectives of the Textile Labelling Act & the Textile Labelling and Advertising Regulations
  3. Prohibitions
  4. Definitions
    1. Dealer
    2. Consumer textile article
    3. Textile fibre product
    4. Label
  5. Articles to be labelled
  6. Exemptions
  7. Required information
    1. Fibre content
      1. Generic name
        1. Natural and man‑made fibres
        2. Animal hair or fibre or fur fibre
        3. Reclaimed fibres
        4. Unknown, undetermined, miscellaneous or mixed fibres
      2. Amount of fibre
        1. Percentage by mass
        2. All or pure
        3. Mixed or miscellaneous fibres, yarns or fabrics
      3. Sectional disclosure
        1. Linings, interlinings, paddings or fillings
        2. Pile, coated and impregnated fabrics
        3. Carpets
        4. Films and foams
      4. Other variation
        1. Other fibre(s)
        2. Elastic yarns
        3. Reinforcement yarns
        4. Ornamentation
        5. Trimming
        6. Findings
    2. Bilingual requirements
    3. Dealer identity
  8. Form and application of labels
    1. Form
    2. Application
      1. Permanent labels
      2. Non‑permanent labels
  9. Variations in the requirements
    1. Second‑hand articles
    2. Labelling of prepackaged consumer textile article
    3. Alternatives to commercially printed labels for home‑crafted articles
  10. Non‑required information
    1. Trade marks and descriptive terms
    2. Sizing
    3. Care information
  11. Advertising
  12. Imported items
  13. Flammability standards
  14. Upholstered & stuffed articles
  15. Further assistance

Appendices

  • Appendix A: Generic names for natural fibres
  • Appendix B: Generic names for man‑made fibres
  • Appendix C: Examples of consumer textile articles requiring permanent labels able to withstand ten cleanings
  • Appendix D: Examples of consumer textile articles eligible for a non‑permanent label
  • Appendix E: Examples of consumer textile articles that are exempt from the labelling requirements of the Textile Labelling Act and Regulations
  • Appendix F: Application for a CA identification number

I. Introduction

This guide provides an outline to the basic labelling requirements for consumer textile articles subject to the Textile Labelling Act and the Textile Labelling and Advertising Regulations. The full text of the Act and Regulations should be consulted for a more detailed understanding of these provisions.

Electronic copies of the Textile Labelling Act and of the Textile Labelling and Advertising Regulations are available on the Justice Laws Website.

II. Objectives of the Textile Labelling Act & the Textile Labelling and Advertising Regulations

  • to protect consumers against misrepresentation in the labelling and advertising of textile fibre products;
  • to enable consumers to choose textiles on the basis of fibre content.

III. Prohibitions

Sections 3, 4 and 5 Act

The Textile Labelling Act prohibits:

  • a dealer from selling, importing into Canada or advertising prescribed consumer textile articles unless they are labelled with fibre content and dealer identification in accordance with the Act and Regulations;
  • a dealer from making, in an advertisement, any representation with respect to the fibre content of the article unless it is in accordance with the Regulations;
  • a dealer from making any false or misleading representations relating to textile fibre products, by means of a label, advertisement or otherwise.

The misleading advertising and deceptive marketing practices sections of the Competition Act may also apply. Generally speaking these provisions prohibit making a materially false or misleading representation for the purpose of promoting a product or business interest.

IV. Definitions

1. Dealer

Section 2 Act

The "dealer" is the person who is a manufacturer, processor, finisher or retailer of a textile fibre product, or a person who is engaged in the business of importing or selling any textile fibre product.

It is the responsibility of the dealer to ensure that all information provided on labels and in advertisements is accurate.

2. Consumer textile article

Section 2 Act

The term "consumer textile article" means any textile fibre, yarn or fabric, or any product made in whole or in part from a textile fibre, yarn or fabric that is in the form in which it is to be sold to any person for consumption or use. This term does not include textile fibre products which are to be used in the manufacturing, processing or finishing of any product for sale.

3. Textile fibre product

Section 2 Act

The term "textile fibre product" means any consumer textile article and any textile fibre, yarn or fabric used or to be used in a consumer textile article.

4. Label

Section 2 Act
Section 3 Regulations

A "label" is any label, mark, sign, device, imprint, stamp, brand or ticket.

Labels containing information relating to fibre content fall into two classifications: representation labels and disclosure labels.

A representation label is a label containing any information with respect to the textile fibre content of the article to which it is applied and may contain other information not required by the Regulations.

A disclosure label is a representation label containing required information which is provided according to the provisions of the Act and Regulations for a consumer textile article.

Both required and non‑required information may be shown on the same label.

V. Articles to be labelled

Section 3 Act

All consumer textile articles identified in Schedule I of the Regulations and which are to be offered for sale in Canada must be labelled in accordance with the Act and Regulations.

VI. Exemptions

Section 6 Regulations

Articles listed in Schedule II (see Appendix E) and articles not included in Schedule I or III of the Regulations are exempt from the labelling requirements of the Act and Regulations. However, when exempted textile articles are labelled, these articles must be labelled in a manner which is neither false nor misleading, (ref. sec. 5 of Act).

Consumer textile articles which are made up for the following entities for their own use, or for use by or resale to their employees, students or members, are also exempt from labelling:

  • commercial or industrial enterprises,
  • federal, provincial, municipal departments or agencies
  • public utilities,
  • educational institutions
  • health care facilities, and
  • religious orders or organizations.

VII. Required information

Section 11 Regulations

The basic requirements are that the disclosure label bear the fibre content information expressed in percentages by mass, and the dealer identity information (as outlined below).

1. Fibre content

a) Generic name 

Section 31 Regulations

The generic name of each fibre present, in an amount of 5% or more, must be stated as a percentage of the total fibre mass of the article. Generally, the fibres must be shown in order of predominance.

(i) Natural and man‑made fibres 

Section 26 Regulations

Generic names and definitions for some commonly used natural fibres and all man‑made fibres are stated in the Regulations. Definitions and systems of nomenclature for biconstituent/multiconstituent fibres and grafted fibres are also regulated.

For your convenience, lists of these generic names are included in Appendices A and B of this publication. Please note that, with one exception, abbreviations for any of the generic names are not acceptable.

(ii) Animal hair or fibre or fur fibre sections 26 and 44 regulations

Where an article is made up, in whole or in part, of the hair removed from the skin of an animal other than that of a sheep, lamb, angora or kashmir goat, alpaca, vicuna, camel or llama, the hair or fur must be disclosed as "(name of the animal) hair", "(name of the animal) fibre" or "fur fibre".

(iii) Reclaimed fibres sections 2 and 33 regulations

The term reclaimed textile fibres refers to fibres produced from yarn waste, fabric cuttings, rags and used garments.  Where such fibres are used, the word "reclaimed", "reprocessed" or "reused" must be shown immediately preceding the generic name.  An example of an acceptable disclosure for work socks knit from a yarn produced by reprocessing wool fabric scraps is:

100% reclaimed wool / laine récupérée

or

100% reprocessed wool / laine retransformée

or

100% reused wool / laine réutilisée

(iv) Unknown, undetermined, miscellaneous or mixed fibres

Section 32 Regulations

Where an article is made up in whole or in part of materials for which the fibre content is unknown and cannot be accurately determined, the terms "unknown fibres", "undetermined fibres", "miscellaneous fibres" or "mixed fibres" should be used. An example of an acceptable disclosure for a lining for warmth in a coat which is produced from fabric scraps of various fibre contents in varying amounts might be:

100% unknown fibres / fibres inconnues

or

60% undetermined fibres / fibres indéterminées
40% reclaimed wool / laine récupérée

or

60% miscellaneous fibres / fibres diverses
40% reclaimed wool / laine récupérée

or

60% mixed fibres / fibres mixtes
40% reclaimed wool / laine récupérée

b) Amount of fibre 

Sections 28 and 29 Regulations

(i) Percentage by mass

The amount of textile fibre present in a textile fibre product may be determined according to the test methods contained in the National Standard of Canada, Textile Test Methods, or an equivalent test method published by one of the other standards‑writing organizations. Recognized standards‑writing organizations are identified in Section 28 of the Regulations.

Copies of the test methods contained in the National Standard of Canada, Textile Test Methods, may be obtained for a fee from the Canadian General Standards Board:

Telephone: 819‑956‑0425
1‑800‑665‑2472
Facsimile: 819‑956‑5644
Website: http://www.tpsgc‑pwgsc.gc.ca

The amount of a textile fibre refers to the total mass of that particular fibre, expressed as a percentage of the entire article or of a particular section of the article. This percentage must appear immediately before or following the generic name of the fibre. For example, for an article made from fabric of blended polyester and cotton fibres, each of which is present in an amount of 5% or more by mass, an appropriate fibre content disclosure is:

65% polyester
35% cotton / coton

The total mass of the article does not include findings and trimmings, or ornamentation, elastic yarns and reinforcement yarns not disclosed as an integral part of the article or constituent part.

Generally, a tolerance of 5% is allowed on the fibre content disclosures of blends, biconstituent, multiconstituent and grafted fibres. No tolerance is allowed for single fibre fabrics or for blends of commercial down, commercial waterfowl feather or commercial landfowl feather.

(ii) All or pure 

Section 29 Regulations

When only one fibre is contained in the article or part thereof, including where ornamentation and elastic or reinforcement yarns are present in amounts of less than 5% and the fibre content is shown exclusive of such ornamentation, elastic or reinforcement, the words "all" or "pure" may be used in lieu of 100%.

Words or figures indicating 100%, or the words "all" or "pure", cannot be used for the filling material of down and feather filled products unless the down and/or feather complies with the appropriate generic definitions included in section 26(1) of the Regulations. For further information on labelling down and/or feather filled products, consult the Guide to the Labelling of Down and Feathers.

(iii) Mixed or miscellaneous fibres, yarns or fabrics

Section 31.01 Regulations

Where an article is made up in whole or in part of materials where it is known which fibres are present but not the exact amounts, the generic name of each fibre present in an amount of 5% or more by mass may be stated in order of predominance following the words "miscellaneous fibres, yarns or fabrics" or "mixed fibres, yarns or fabrics", as the case may be. For example, for a patchwork placemat where the face is made from several different fabrics, some of which are 100% cotton, and others of various blends of cotton and polyester, and where it is virtually impossible to determine the actual percentage of the cotton and polyester in the finished product, an appropriate disclosure is:

Face / Endroit:

100% mixed fabrics / tissus mixtes
cotton / coton
polyester

c) Sectional disclosure

Sections 34, 37 and 38 Regulations

Where a consumer textile article consists of different parts or sections, and when the fibre content of one section is different from that of any or all others, then separate disclosures must be made for each section. For example, a sweatshirt with a knit body consisting of a 65% polyester/35% cotton blend and woven sleeves of a 50% polyester/50% cotton blend, the fibre content of the body must be disclosed separately from the fibre content of the sleeves as:

Body / Corps:

65% polyester
35% cotton / coton

Sleeves / Manches:

50% polyester
50% cotton / coton

(i) Linings, interlinings, paddings or fillings

The fibre content of linings, interlinings, paddings or fillings added for warmth as well as, laminated or bonded linings and some textile fillings (as in bed pillows), must be disclosed separately from, and following other sections. For example, a winter jacket consisting of a cotton shell, polyester filling and a structural nylon lining should be disclosed sectionally as:

Outer Shell / Extérieur:

100% cotton / coton

Filling / Remplissage:

100% polyester

NOTE: The structural nylon lining is a finding and does not require disclosure.

(ii) Pile, coated and impregnated fabrics

Section 35 Regulations

Consumer textile articles made up from a pile, coated or impregnated fabric that has a pile, coating or impregnator that differs in fibre content from the backing or base fabric, may be labelled in either of the following two ways:

  • sectionally, to indicate the individual composition of both components separately, or
  • as a composite, with the components indicated as percentages by mass of the total fibre mass, in this case, the total fibre mass of the face, coating or impregnator and the back or support fabric.

For example, a pile fabric could be declared sectionally as:

Pile / Poil:

100% acrylic / acrylique

Back / Support:

100% cotton / coton

or as a composite:

80% acrylic / acrylique
20% cotton / coton

A coated fabric could be declared sectionally as:

Coating / Enduit:

100% polyurethane / polyuréthane

Back / Support:

100% polyester

or as a composite:

75% polyurethane / polyuréthane
25% polyester

(iii) Carpets

Section 35 Regulations

Where the consumer textile article is a floor covering with a backing that differs in textile fibre content from the outer surface, face or pile, the textile fibre content may be identified in either of the following ways:

  • the fibre content of the pile, face or outer surface exclusive of the backing, provided it is clear from the disclosure that the backing is excluded, or
  • the fibre content of the pile shown first, followed immediately by the fibre content of the backing, with a clear indication that it is the backing.

For example,

Pile / Poil:

100% nylon

or

100% nylon
exclusive of backing / support non compris

or

Pile / Poil:

100% nylon

Back / Support:

100% jute

(iv) Films and foams

Foams are usually made from rubber, polyvinyl chloride or polyurethane, and must be labelled sectionally when backed or supported with fabric. For example, a sofa cover consisting of a nylon fabric laminated to a polyurethane foam must be labelled as:

Face / Endroit:

100% nylon

Back / Envers:

100% polyurethane / polyuréthane

When used strictly as an adhesive or when sold without a fabric support, foams such as cushion forms, bags of chipped foam and foam slabs, do not require labelling.

Films, which are non‑fibrous materials with no support or backing (frequently used for rain bonnets and coats, umbrellas, bibs, ground sheets, etc.), also do not require labelling.

d) Other variations

Section 31 Regulations

(i) Other fibre(s)

Normally a fibre present in an amount of less than 5% by mass must be stated by generic name or as "other fibre". For example, for a fabric made from a blend of cotton and spandex, an appropriate disclosure is:

97% cotton / coton
3% other fibre / autre fibre

When more than one fibre is present in an amount of less than 5%, they may be identified as "other fibres" accompanied by the percentage by mass of the aggregate. For example, for a fabric made up of cotton, metallic and spandex, an appropriate disclosure is:

92% cotton / coton
8% other fibres / autres fibres

(ii) Elastic yarns

Sections 25 and 31 Regulations

An elastic yarn is an elastomer which may or may not be covered with a wrap. Elastic yarns may be found in stretch denim and corduroy fabrics, as well as swimsuit fabrics. It should be noted, however, that elastic yarns added to a limited area in socks serve a functional purpose and are therefore considered as findings.

An elastic yarn that is present in an amount of less than 5% of the total fibre mass may be disclosed by generic name as an integral part of the fabric or as "other fibre". Alternatively an elastic yarn present in an amount of less than 5% may be disclosed as "Exclusive of elastic", provided that the total of the other fibre(s) disclosed equals 100%. For example, for a wool fabric which contains a spandex elastic yarn in an amount of 2%, an appropriate disclosure is:

98% wool / laine
2% spandex

or

98% wool / laine
2% other fibre / autre fibre

or

100% wool / laine
exclusive of elastic / à l'exclusion de l'élastique
An elastic yarn that is present in an amount of 5% or more of the total fibre mass must be disclosed as an integral part of the fabric.

(iii) Reinforcement yarns

Sections 25 and 31 Regulations

A reinforcement yarn is a portion of a complex yarn that is either present as a core or wrap for the purpose of increasing the strength of the yarn. Binder yarns which are used in novelty‑type yarns, such as bouclé yarns, to hold the loops, or in fancy/effect yarns to the core or base, are also considered as a reinforcement yarn. A reinforcement yarn that is present in an amount of less than 5% of the total fibre mass may be disclosed by generic name as an integral part of the fabric or yarn, or as "other fibre". As an alternative, a reinforcement yarn present in an amount of less than 5%, may be disclosed as "Exclusive of reinforcement", provided that the total of the other fibre(s) disclosed equals 100%. For example, for a wool fabric which contains a reinforcement yarn in an amount of 4%, an appropriate disclosure is:

96% wool / laine
4% nylon

or

96% wool / laine
4% other fibre / autre fibre

or

100% wool / laine
exclusive of reinforcement / à l'exclusion du renforcement

A reinforcement yarn that is present in an amount of 5% or more of the total fibre mass must be disclosed as an integral part of the fabric.

(iv) Ornamentation

Sections 25 and 31 Regulations

Ornamentation is a textile fibre product that is present as an integral part of the article for a decorative purpose, that imparts a visibly discernable overall pattern or design and that differs in fibre content from the remainder of the article.

Ornamentation that is present in an amount of less than 5% may be disclosed:

  • exclusive of ornamentation, provided the label bears the statement "exclusive of ornamentation" and the total of the fibre(s) disclosed equals 100%;
  • by stating the generic name of the fibre or yarn used for ornamentation, and the total of the fibres disclosed equals 100%;
  • as "other fibre" as previously explained in 1.d)(i).

For example, an acceptable disclosure for a consumer textile article made from a blend of cotton and polyester, and 4% metallic for ornamentation, is:

75% cotton / coton
25% polyester
exclusive of ornamentation / sans l'ornement

or

72% cotton / coton
24% polyester
4% metallic / fibre métallique

or

72% cotton / coton
24% polyester
4% other fibre / autre fibre

Ornamentation present in an amount of 5% or more must be disclosed as an integral part of the fabric.

(v) Trimming

Sections 25 and 36 Regulations

Trimming is any textile fibre product that has been added to a consumer textile article for a decorative purpose and differs in textile fibre content from the article to which it has been added, including embroidery, appliqué, braid, lace, ribbon, smocking threads, patch pockets, ruffles, piping, belts, rick rack, collars and cuffs. Trimming must be disclosed if it is present in an amount greater than 15% of the total outer surface area of the article.  If present in an amount of 15% or less, it does not require disclosure, provided it is clear that the fibre content is disclosed "exclusive of trimming". For example, where a consumer textile article has nylon lace added to it, and the total area of the lace is 15% or less of the total area of the article, then an appropriate fibre content disclosure is:

72% cotton / coton
24% polyester
4% other fibre / autre fibre
exclusive of trimming / garniture non comprise

or

75% cotton / coton
25% polyester
exclusive of trimming and ornamentation / garniture et ornement non compris

or

72% cotton / coton
24% polyester
4% metalic / fibre métallique
exclusive of trimming / garniture non comprise

Should the dealer wish to disclose the fibre content of the trimming, an acceptable disclosure is:

72% cotton / coton
24% polyester
4% metallic / fibre métallique
Trimming / Garniture:
100% nylon

or

72 % cotton / coton
24 % polyester
4 % metallic / fibre métallique
Lace / Dentelle:
100% nylon

Trimming also includes decorative patterns or designs that are an integral part of the article but do not create an all‑over pattern or design. This would include stripes knitted into the leg of a sock or an abstract design knitted into the front of a sweater.

Where an article has several different trimmings, each present in amounts of less than or equal to 15% of the outer surface area, but which together comprise over 15% of the outer surface area, the trimmings may be labelled collectively, for example, as:

Trimmings / Garnitures:
100% silk / soie
100% acetate / acétate
100% rayon / rayonne

(vi) Findings sections 25 and 39 regulations

The term findings means any textile fibre product that is added to the consumer textile article for a functional purpose, differs in textile fibre content from the article to which it has been added and does not constitute a part of the outer surface of that article unless it is incorporated at or along an edge.  Some examples of findings are elastic yarns that are added in a limited area in socks (not all hosiery), interfacing, facings, buttons, zippers, fasteners, thread, gussets, leg, neck and wrist bands, concealed pockets, plackets, shoulder pads, elastic used in a casing at the waist, legs and/or wrists or used in smocking, etc.  Any lining (other than a laminated or bonded lining), interlining or padding incorporated for structural purposes, and not for warmth, are also considered findings.

Findings do not have to be declared but, if disclosed, the textile fibre content must be shown separately from and following all other disclosures, with a clear indication that it is the textile fibre content of the findings that is being shown. For example, where a consumer textile article is a wool dress with rayon lining, and the dealer desires to make this known, an appropriate disclosure is:

Dress / Robe:

100% wool / laine

Lining / Doublure:

100% rayon / rayonne

On the other hand, the disclosure could be simply:

100% wool / laine

2. Bilingual requirements

Sections 11 and 14 Regulations

Except in areas where only one official language is used in consumer transactions, the required fibre content information (generic names), as well as any information directly relating to the fibre content, must be bilingual. For example, terms required to be shown with the fibre content, such as "reclaimed" or "reprocessed", or for the identification of sections, such as "yoke" and "skirt" must be in English and in French. It is also recommended that supplementary descriptive terms used in conjunction with the fibre content be bilingual, i.e. "combed cotton 100% coton peigné". This information may be shown on two separate labels, one English and one French. For consumer textile articles requiring a permanent disclosure label, these labels must be adjoining or contiguous.

The dealer identity as well as the country of origin (when required) need only be in one of the official languages.

The province of Quebec has additional requirements concerning the use of the French language on all products marketed within its jurisdiction. Information on these requirements may be obtained from l'Office québecois de langue française:

Telephone: 514‑873‑6565
1‑888‑873‑6202
Facsimile: 514‑873‑3488
Website: www.oqlf.gouv.qc.ca

3. Dealer identity sections 11 and 12 regulations

The dealer identity may be disclosed by identifying the name and full postal address under which the dealer normally carries out his business, or for a dealer in Canada, an identification number obtained by applying to the Competition Bureau. This identification number, commonly referred to as a "CA Number", will be registered for the exclusive use of the dealer.

Dealers assigned an identification number are responsible for:

  • complying with the Textile Labelling Act and Textile Labelling and Advertising Regulations for all articles which bear their identification number;
  • notifying the Competition Bureau in writing should they transfer their business to another dealer, and;
  • advising the Competition Bureau in writing should they change the name or address under which they carry on business or cease to carry on business.

Applications for an identification number may be submitted electronically through the Competition Bureau website: CA Identification Number The fee for each registration is one hundred dollars ($100.00) payable upon application by Mastercard or Visa.

Applications may also be submitted in writing to the Competition Bureau using the form provided in Appendix G.  All cheques and money orders must be made payable to the Receiver General for Canada.

Where the full name and postal address appears as the dealer identity information, the address must be identified in accordance with the Canada Post Guidelines. Information regarding these guidelines may be obtained from Canada Post Corporation:

Telephone: 416‑979‑8822
1‑800‑267‑1177
Website: www.canadapost.ca

VIII. Form and application of labels

1. Form

Sections 7, 14, 15 and 16 Regulations

A disclosure label must be applied to a consumer textile article in such a manner that the label is legible and accessible to the prospective consumer at the time of purchase. The permanency of the label is dependant on the type of article to be labelled (Section 2 — Application). Labels may 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 (eg. stickers, hang tags);
  • printing the required information on a wrapper, package or container;
  • imprinting the required information directly on the article (providing the information is together in one place).

In general, generic names must be stated in order of predominance by mass. However, where the article is included in Schedule III, the non‑permanent disclosure label may consist of a pre‑printed alphabetical list of generic names with blank spaces beside each name for the insertion of percentages. For example,

Form

When a consumer textile article is custom‑made, or a floor covering cut to a consumer's specifications, the required information may be presented on an invoice or other document accompanying the article when it is delivered rather than on a label. However, in these circumstances the consumer must have had the opportunity of examining a properly labelled sample or swatch prior to making a commitment to purchase.

2. Application

Sections 5, 7, 15 Regulations

Labels on consumer textile articles must be applied as follows:

a) Permanent labels

Consumer textile articles included in Schedule I of the Regulations, but not in Schedule III, require a label of such material and attached in such manner that it can be expected to withstand and remain legible throughout at least ten cleanings of the article (See Appendix C). These are commonly referred to as permanent labels. The National Standard of Canada Textile Test Methods (CAN/CGSB‑4.2) are recommended for testing the durability of the labels.

When a permanent label is attached to an article so as to leave both sides easily accessible, the label may have part of the required information on one side and the remainder on the other. The information may also be placed on two different labels provided that the labels are adjoining or contiguous.

b) Non‑permanent labels

Consumer textile articles included in Schedule III of the Regulations (see Appendix D) may bear a non‑permanent label such as a hang tag, wrapper, sticker, etc. or, if the dealer desires, a permanent label. The required information may be disclosed on more than one label. Where the labels used are not together in the same location, all the English fibre content information may appear on one label and all the French fibre content information on another label. The dealer identity information may appear on either of the two labels or another separate label. A bilingual English/French fibre content declaration cannot be separated with part of the bilingual information on one label and the remainder on another unless the labels are contiguous.

IX. Variations in the requirements

1. Second‑hand articles

Section 9 Regulations

Consumer textile articles that are clearly identified by means of a label, sign, mark, etc. as "second‑hand" do not require labelling. However, where a second‑hand article is labelled, it must be labelled in a manner which is neither false nor misleading. (ref. Sec. 5 of the Act).

2. Labelling of prepackaged consumer textile articles

Section 21 Regulations

When a consumer textile article 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 article is wrapped, packaged or contained so that the disclosure label is not visible, the information required to be shown in the label must be repeated on the wrapper, package or container in the prescribed manner.

When an article sold to the consumer in a wrapper, package or container is included in Schedule III, or is enclosed in the wrapper, package or container only as a premium and the main product being sold is not a textile fibre product (e.g. a towel in a box of detergent), the wrapper, package or container serves as the disclosure label for the consumer textile article. The textile article itself does not have to be labelled.

3. Alternatives to commercially printed labels for home‑crafted articles

As home‑crafted consumer textile articles are usually made in very limited quantities, with each article being unique and different, it may be difficult to purchase preprinted disclosure labels in suitable quantities.

Permanent disclosure labels may be created simply and inexpensively by using blank labels purchased from a label or garment manufacturer and India Ink, indelible stamp pads or permanent ink felt pens available from stationary stores. During experiments using these methods, it was found that India Ink remained legible after ten washings or dry cleanings while the other two methods remained legible after ten washings but were illegible after ten dry cleanings.

When using any of the above‑mentioned methods, test the labelled article by washing and/or dry cleaning, as appropriate, to be certain that ink from the label will withstand ten cleanings and will not stain the article.

X. Non‑required information

1. Trade marks and descriptive terms

Section 40 Regulations

Where a textile fibre must be shown by its generic name, such as in a disclosure label, the Canadian registered trade mark for that fibre, yarn or fabric or a factual descriptive term, may be shown immediately preceding or following the generic name of the fibre(s). The trade mark or descriptive term must not be larger or more prominent than the type in which the generic name is shown. For example, an appropriate label for a comforter with a "combed" cotton outer shell and a filling of "Dacron" polyester is:

Outer Shell / Extérieur:

100% Combed Cotton / Coton peigné

Filling / Remplissage:

100% Dacron Polyester / Polyester Dacron

A Banlon yarn could be labelled as:

100% Banlon Nylon / Nylon Banlon

Fabric trade marks such as Viyella and Ultrasuede could be used as in the following examples:

Viyella:

55% Wool / Laine
45% Cotton / Coton

Ultrasuede:

60% Polyester
40% Polyurethane / Polyuréthane

It is important to note that the registration of a mark under the Trade Marks Act does not imply that its use will necessarily comply with the requirements of other federal statutes. The use of a registered trade mark or of a coined, trade or brand name may provide a false or erroneous impression as to the actual fibre content, origin, performance, etc. of the textile fibre product, and could therefore be considered as a false or misleading representation relating to a textile fibre product and in contravention of Section 5 of the Textile Labelling Act. Generally, labels must not use the name of another fibre of which it is an imitation or substitute, or which it resembles in a manner likely to mislead.

2. Sizing

Manufacturers are not required under the Textile Labelling Act and Textile Labelling and Advertising Regulations to manufacture garments that conform to specific size dimensions or use specific size codes. The determination of garment dimensions and designation of size codes or "sizes" are left to the discretion of the dealer. However, in accordance with Section 5 of the Act, where a size dimension has been identified (e.g. size 36 waist dimension), it must be accurate.

3. Care information

The provision for care information in the form of either written words or symbols (Canadian, ASTM or International) is not mandatory. However, in accordance with Section 5 of the Act, where care information is provided, the information must appear in a manner which is neither false or misleading and must accurately reflect an appropriate method of care for the article to which it applies. Written care instructions may be provided in English or French. It should be noted, however, that the Province of Quebec has additional requirements concerning the use of the French language. Information on these requirements may be obtained from l'Office québécois de la langue française.

Guide to the Canadian Care Labelling Program

The National Standard of Canada "Care Labelling of Textiles"
CAN/CGSB‑86.1‑2003 supersedes CAN/CGSB‑86.1‑M91.

Since care labelling of textile is a voluntary program in Canada, the Competition Bureau leaves the decision to businesses if an when they want to adopt the new standard, published in December 2003 by the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB), which is harmonized with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) care symbols and the symbols in the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard (both not yet finalized).

Copies of this standard can be purchased from the CGSB

CGSB Sales Centre
Ottawa, Canada K1A 1G6
Tel: 819‑956‑0425
or 1‑800‑665‑CGSB (Canada Only)
Facsimile: 819‑956‑5644
Open 8:00 am to 4:30 pm EST
www.tpsgc‑pwgsc.gc.ca

Also, Consumer Connection, Office of Consumer Affairs of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, is the only Government Website to display the new symbols found in the new standard.

XI. Advertising

Sections 22, 23 and 24 Regulations

A fibre content declaration in advertising is not mandatory. However, if any representation is made as to the fibre content, it must be done in accordance with the Act and Regulations as described in section VII, item 1 of this publication, except that percentages may be omitted and the generic names of the fibres are not required to be bilingual.

Dealers involved in the advertising of consumer textile articles should consult the Guide to the Advertising of Consumer Textile Articles for more detailed information.

XII. Imported items

Sections 8 and 11 Regulations

Section 3 of the Textile Labelling Act prohibits a dealer from importing into Canada consumer textile articles without a disclosure label. However, Section 8 of the Regulations allows a dealer to import incompletely or improperly labelled consumer textile articles and label them in Canada, provided a Competition Bureau officer is notified at the time, or in advance of importation, of all pertinent details on the nature and quantity of the importation, the date and port of entry and the address of the premises where the relabelling will be completed. On completion of the re‑labelling, the dealer must notify the officer and provide a reasonable opportunity to inspect the labelled goods prior to resale.

The Act and Regulations do not require that the name of the country of origin be identified on an imported textile product unless a representation is made to the fact that the article, fabric or fibre therein is imported. When such a representation is made, it is then required that the country of origin of that article or part be stated. For example, a Canadian shirt manufacturer making men's shirts from imported fabrics need not state that the fabrics are imported unless it is desirable to do so. If it is stated that the shirts are made from imported fabrics, then the country of origin of those fabrics must be stated. The declaration of the country of origin may be stated on the disclosure label or on a separate label in either of the official languages.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) requires country of origin marking on specific goods. Prospective importers should communicate with the CBSA:

In Canada: 1‑800‑461‑9999
Outside Canada: 204‑983‑3500
Website: www.cbsa‑asfc.gc.ca

Or contact one of their local offices for further information in this regard.

Some textile articles must also be covered by an Import Permit issued by the Department of Global Affairs Canada. Any questions regarding an application for an Import Permit, should be directed to the Department of Global Affairs Canada, Export and Import Controls Bureau, Special Trade Policy Division.

XIII. Flammability standards

Under the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act there exists a basic, minimum flammability standard for all consumer textile articles, in particular children's soft toys, articles of bedding, carpets, rugs and mats, mattresses and tents. Strict standards apply to children's sleepwear depending upon the design of the sleepwear. Products which do not meet these established requirements cannot be sold, advertised or imported into Canada. Any questions regarding the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act, should be directed to Consumer Product Safety Directorate.

Or contact one of their local offices.

XIV. Upholstered & stuffed articles

The fibre content of the filling or stuffing used in upholstered furniture, mattresses, boxsprings, cushions, chair pads, pot holders, oven mitts, place mats and mattress protectors, is not required to be shown on the label. If any representation about the textile fibre content is made, then it should be shown on the label as per the Regulations.

XV. Further assistance

Electronic copies of our other publications can be obtained from our Website.

Website: www.competitionbureau.gc.ca
Online: Enquiries/Complaints

Printed copies of these publications and further assistance concerning labelling and advertising of consumer textile articles may also be obtained from the Competition Bureau's Information Centre.

Telephone: 1‑800‑348‑5358
819‑997‑4282
Facsimile: 819‑997‑0324

Appendix A

Generic names for natural fibres
English  French
abaca abaca
asbestos amiante
coir or coco coco
cotton coton
down duvet
duck down duvet de canard
goose down duvet d'oie
swan down duvet de cygne
(feather) (plumes)
landfowl feather plumes d'oiseaux terrestres
waterfowl feather plumes d'oiseaux aquatiques
(name of bird) feather plumes de (nom de l'oiseau)
hemp chanvre
jute jute
kapok kapok
linen or flax lin
ramie ramie
rubber caoutchouc
silk soie
sisal sisal
wool laine
alpaca alpaga
alpaca hair poil d'alpaga
alpaca wool laine d'alpaga
angora goat hair poil de chèvre angora
camel chameau
camel hair poil de chameau
camel wool laine de chameau
cashmere cachemire
kashmir goat hair poil de chèvre de cachemire
kashmir wool laine cachemire
lambs wool laine d'agneau
llama lama
llama wool laine de lama
llama hair poil de lama
mohair mohair
mohair wool laine mohair
vicuna vigogne
vicuna hair poil de vigogne
vicuna wool laine de vigogne

NOTE: Hair or fur removed from the skin of an animal other than those referred to above must be disclosed as:

Hair or fur disclosure
(name of animal) hair poil de (nom de l'animal)
(name of animal) fibre fibre de (nom de l'animal)
fur fibre fibre de fourrure
 
For example:
angora rabbit hair poil de lapin angora
angora rabbit fibre fibre de lapin angora

Appendix B

Generic names for man‑made fibres
English French
acetate acétate
acrylic acrylique
anidex anidex
aramid aramide
azlon or protein azlon or protéique
chlorofibre chlorofibre
saran saran
polyvinyl chloride or vinyon chlorure de polyvinyle or vinyon
fluorofibre fluorofibre
glass verre
lastol lastol
metallic fibre métallique
modacrylic modacrylique
nylon or polyamide nylon or polyamide
nytril nytrile
olefin or polyolefin oléfine or polyoléfine
PLA or polylactic acid PLA ou acide polylactique
polyethylene polyéthylène
polypropylene polypropylène
PBI PBI 
polyester polyester
polyurethane polyuréthane
spandex or elastane spandex or élasthanne
rayon rayonne
cuprammonium cuprammonium
cuprammonium rayon rayonne au cuprammonium
cupro or cupro rayon cupro or rayonne cupro
viscose or viscose rayon viscose or rayonne viscose
lyocell or lyocell rayon lyocell or rayonne lyocell
modal or modal rayon modal or rayonne modal
rubber caoutchouc
lastrile lastrile
triacetate triacétate
vinal or vinylal vinal or vinylal

Appendix C

Examples of consumer textile articles requiring permanent labels able to withstand ten cleanings

(Articles in schedule I but not in schedule III of the Textile Labelling and Advertising Regulations)

  1. Jackets
  2. Coats, overcoats, topcoats, capes and ponchos
  3. Pants, slacks and shorts
  4. Suits
  5. Overalls and work clothing
  6. Shirts and blouses
  7. Sweaters
  8. Skirts and kilts
  9. Sports clothing
  10. Dresses, jumpers, and jumpsuits
  11. Dusters, house coats, bathrobes, dressing gowns and smocks
  12. Children's clothing including play clothing, overalls, snow suits, etc.
  13. Bath, hand, beach and sports towels
  14. Bedspreads, blankets, quilts and comforters
  15. Sheets, bed pillows, and pillow cases
  16. Slip covers, afghans, throws and other covers for furniture, appliances and automobile seats
  17. Draperies, drapery liners and curtains (including fabric shower curtains)
  18. Sleeping bags
  19. Tents and tent flys

Appendix D

Examples of consumer textile articles eligible for a non‑permanent label

(Articles in schedule III of the Textile Labelling and Advertising Regulations)

  1. Undergarments, lingerie, sleepwear and swimwear
  2. Scarves, shawls, mufflers and handkerchiefs
  3. Stretch tights (leotards), hosiery and panty hose
  4. Gloves, mittens and gaiters
  5. Wigs, toupees, switches and other hair pieces
  6. Headwear
  7. Aprons and bibs
  8. Diapers
  9. Neckties, bow ties, dickies and detachable collars and cuffs
  10. Umbrellas and parasols
  11. Cordage and ropes
  12. Batts, batting, wadding, and padding
  13. Yarns, sewing and embroidery threads
  14. Piece goods and narrow fabrics
  15. Table cloths, silence cloths, napkins, doilies, dresser and furniture scarves, runners and antimacassars
  16. Dish cloths, dish towels and wash cloths
  17. Covers and pads for ironing boards and sleeve boards
  18. Covers for bathroom fixtures
  19. Outer coverings of upholstered furniture, mattresses, box springs, cushions, chair pads, oven mitts, pot holders, placemats, mattress and pillow protectors
  20. Carpets, carpeting, rugs and carpet tiles
  21. Bed canopies

Appendix E

Examples of consumer textile articles that are exempt from the labelling requirements of the Textile Labelling Act and Regulations

(Articles listed in schedule II of the Textile Labelling and Advertising Regulations)

  1. Articles intended for a one‑time use only
  2. Overshoes, boots, shoes, indoor slippers, footwear liners, insoles
  3. Handbags, luggage, carrying cases, brushes
  4. Toys, ornaments, pictures, lamp shades, tapestries, wall hangings, wall coverings, room dividers, screens, book covers, book marks, gift wrap, flags, pennants
  5. Sports and games equipment other than sport garments
  6. Lawn and beach furniture, including lawn and beach umbrellas, parasols, hammocks
  7. Playpens, crib‑pens, strollers, jumpers, walkers and car seats for infants or children
  8. Labels, adhesive tapes and sheets, cleaning cloths, wipers, therapeutic devices, heating pads
  9. Pet accessories
  10. Belts, suspenders, arms bands, garters, sanitary belts and bandages
  11. Curler head covers, hair nets and shower caps
  12. Carpet underpadding
  13. Musical instruments and accessories
  14. Straw or felt headwear, padding or helmets worn in sports
  15. Non‑fibrous materials that do not have a fabric support, including films and foams
  16. Household twine, string, craft ribbon not intended to be used in the construction of prescribed consumer textile articles, baler twine, binder twine, gift wrap ribbon

Note: The articles listed above are exempt from the labelling requirements of the Act and Regulations, but if labelled they must be labelled in a manner which is neither false or misleading (Section 5 of the Act).