Labelling: Getting Your Product Labels Right

EU labels must show fibre composition with EU-approved names, declare animal-origin components, and be in the destination country's language. Care labels aren't mandatory but are expected. New requirements for origin and sustainability data are expected around 2028.

EU labelling regulations require clear, accurate product information on permanent durable labels. These rules apply to every textile you sell in Europe.

Getting labelling right is your first compliance checkpoint. Incorrect labels trigger buyer rejection, retailer returns, and consumer complaints. Correct labels build trust and streamline your path to shelf.

What Your Labels Must Show

Fibre Composition

Use only EU-approved fibre names and list them in descending order by weight. Your percentages must be accurate — misleading fibre claims can result in penalties and market removal. For example, if you claim "100% cotton" but your product is 95% cotton and 5% elastane, you're in violation.

Non-Textile Components

Declare all non-textile parts made from animal origin materials. This includes wool, fur, leather, bone, and shell. Be explicit about what your buttons, zippers, and accessories are made from.

Language Requirements

Labels must be in the language(s) of the destination EU country. A single English label won't work for most EU markets. Ensure translations are accurate — generic translations can miss regulatory nuances and mislead consumers.

Current Expectations and Coming Changes

Care Instructions

Care labels aren't legally mandatory, but retailers and consumers expect them. Providing clear care instructions improves product reputation and reduces returns.

Future Requirements (approx. 2028)

A regulatory revision is underway to add origin information and sustainability attributes to labelling. Start preparing your labelling systems now to accommodate these additions — it's easier to build flexibility in early.

Best Practice

• Use standardized EU fibre names and codes
• Ensure labels are securely attached and remain readable after washing
• Test label accuracy with third-party verification before production
• Build flexibility into your labelling workflow to adapt to future requirements

Compliance with labelling rules is a critical entry point for EU market access. Verify labels before shipping — incorrect labelling is easy to prevent and costly to fix after shipment.

Related on this site

• General export requirements — TARIC, origin, baseline four checks
• REACH — fibre-related safety and SVHC
• Green claims — marketing that must match the label
• Label template — practical layout

What Should You Do Next?

Verify fibre names, language, and importer lines on your labels with a free compliance assessment.