China has released a new recommended national standard
for donated textiles – GB/T 38418-2019 (General Technical Requirements for
Donated Textiles).
The new standard applies to textiles, both new and used,
meaning textiles that can be reused after they have been professionally disinfected,
that are donated through non-profit organizations
and/or other relevant organizations. It does not apply to donated infant
textiles.
The standard contains two classifications for donated textiles,
depending on their usability. These are:
- Category I – unused textile products, including non-bulk products donated by individuals and organizations and bulk products donated by enterprises
- Category II – used textile products that are usable after
professionally cleaning and disinfection
Category I donated textile products should meet the requirements
of GB 18401, GB 31701, or GB/T 18383-2007. Donated non-bulk products are also
required to meet the hygiene requirements in GB/T 38418-2019.
Category II donated textiles need to meet specific safety,
appearance, and hygiene performance requirements. In relation to safety
performance, these are:
- No odor – specified in GB 18401 and ozone odor
- No residual metal needles or other sharp objects
- No sharp point or sharp edges on children’s textile products
- Cords and drawstrings on children’s garments must comply
with the requirements in GB 31701
Issued by the Standardization Administration of China,
GB/T 38418-2019 was included in the 2019 No. 19 Announcement of newly approved
standards and it will become effective on July 1, 2020.
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state-of-the-art laboratories specializing in testing of apparel, footwear, and
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chemical, and functional testing services for components, materials, and
finished products. SGS helps companies ensure quality, performance, and
compliance with international, industrial and regulatory standards worldwide. Learn more about SGS’s
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