April 17, 2020 - 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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