FTC Proposed Updates to the Care Labeling Rule on Apparel – Only 2 More Weeks to Submit Your Comments

Only 2 more weeks remain for you to submit your comments related to the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTCs) proposed changes to the Care Labeling Rule.

This rule requires manufacturers and importers to attach labels with care instructions for garments and certain piece goods, so consumers have reliable instructions for washing, dry cleaning, bleaching, drying and ironing their clothing.

The Care Labeling Rule, officially called the Rule on Care Labeling of Textile Wearing Apparel and Certain Piece Goods, has been in effect since 1971.  It requires manufacturers and importers to attach care instructions to garments.

The FTC is seeking comments on potential updates to the Rule, including changes that would:

1. Allow manufacturers and importers, if they so choose, to include professional instructions for “wet cleaning” – an environmentally friendly alternative to dry cleaning – on labels if the garment can be professionally wet cleaned;

2. Permit manufacturers to use updated ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) or ISO (International Organization for Standardization) symbols on labels in lieu of written terms providing care instructions;

3. Clarify what constitutes a reasonable basis for care instructions; and

4. Update and expand the definition of "dry clean" to reflect current practices and account for the advent of new solvents.

Comments can be filed electronically by clicking here as are instructions on how to file.  They must be received by November 16, 2012.

All comments received will be posted online here. (FTC File No. R511915)  The staff contact is Robert M. Frisby, Bureau of Consumer Protection (202) 326-2098 and questions about contributing and submitting comments may be directed to him.

Make your voice heard!

Questions/comments?  Post below or email me at clark.deanna@gmail.com.