GPSR
Compliance
For Book
Publishers
- Suvitha is an experienced content strategist who creates engaging and informative content for Euverify. With a strong background in digital media and a deep understanding of UK & EU regulatory frameworks, she develops content that helps businesses navigate complex compliance requirements.
- May 2, 2025Industry InsightsWindsor Framework Trade Compliance: What It Means for UK-EU Trade
- May 2, 2025Industry Insights10 Reasons for a Clothing Ban in the EU and UK and How to Avoid Them
- April 4, 2025Industry InsightsCompliance and Toys: How to Avoid Bans in the EU
- March 21, 2025Industry InsightsJewellery and Compliance: What You Need to Know to Avoid Bans in the EU
Selling clothing in the EU and UK isn’t just about creativity and great design. It also comes with serious compliance responsibilities. From chemical restrictions to labelling rules and traceability, there’s a lot that can trip brands up. If you don’t meet the rules, your products could be banned, recalled, or pulled from stores. To help you stay on track, here’s a breakdown of 10 common reasons clothing gets banned, based on real enforcement cases, current regulations, and what brands are getting wrong right now.
1. Hazardous Chemicals – REACH Violations
This is the most common reason for product bans in the EU. REACH (Regulation EC 1907/2006) controls thousands of chemicals used in consumer goods.
Common violations include:
- Azo dyes that release carcinogenic amines
- Heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and chromium VI in dyes and fasteners
- Phthalates in synthetic trims
- Formaldehyde in wrinkle-resistant finishes
For example: In early 2025, a pair of bicycle gloves sold in Germany under the brand GES (model: “RIDE AHEAD” Guante “Classic” T-S Negro) was recalled due to a chemical safety issue. The gloves, made in Pakistan, had plastic labels on the Velcro fasteners that contained 4.8% DEHP, a harmful phthalate linked to reproductive health risks. Since this exceeded the legal limit under the REACH Regulation, the distributor had to stop sales and recall the product from customers. Authorities in Austria also took similar action.
Prevention: Request chemical testing from certified labs, maintain a Restricted Substances List (RSL), and keep supplier declarations on file
2. Flammability Hazards in the EU and UK
Flammability remains a key safety concern in both the EU and the UK, particularly for children’s clothing and upholstered items. The UK applies additional fire safety requirements that go beyond EU standards, especially for items like nightwear, cushions, and padded garments.
For example: In Norway, a children’s dress sold under the label “Girls by KappAhl” was voluntarily withdrawn from the market due to a fire risk. The deep red dress was found to be highly flammable, posing a serious safety hazard. Although there was no formal recall, the product was voluntarily pulled from distribution to prevent potential harm. The dress was made in Norway and did not meet the flammability safety standards required in the EU.
Prevention: Manufacturers and brands should ensure fabrics meet relevant fire resistance standards. In the UK, that includes following the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 and using clear safety labels like “Keep Away From Fire” where required.
3. Unsafe Design for Children
Children’s clothing must meet strict safety standards, including:
- Long cords or drawstrings at the hood or waist
- Detachable parts like buttons or decorations that could be swallowed
- Sharp edges or insecure fasteners
For example: In October 2024, authorities in Cyprus ordered the withdrawal of a children’s black sweatshirt sold under the brand JEBE KIDS (model MJ-2960, barcode 80285). The sweatshirt, intended for eight-year-olds, featured a hood with long drawstrings at the neck, which is a serious safety risk. These cords could easily get caught during play, potentially causing strangulation or injury. The product, made in China, didn’t meet the General Product Safety Directive or the European standard EN 14682, which sets specific design rules for children’s clothing.
Prevention: Follow EN 14682. Conduct physical safety tests and avoid using risky trims.
4. Incorrect or Incomplete Labelling
This is a surprisingly common reason for enforcement actions, including:
- Using vague terms like “natural fabric” instead of “100% cotton”
- Missing translations in the local language
- Not disclosing animal materials (e.g., leather, fur, wool)
- Missing or misleading care instructions
Prevention: Follow EU Regulation 1007/2011 and UK textile labelling laws. Use standardised fiber names and include local language translations on all products.
Practical Guide to Clothing, Apparels, and Textile Compliance in the UK & EU
A helpful guide that provides a comprehensive overview of compliance for Clothing, Apparels, and Textiles.
5. Missing Technical Documentation and Traceability
Both the EU and UK require traceable product safety information, including:
- No Technical File or Declaration of Conformity (if applicable)
- Missing test reports, safety data, or supplier certificates
- Lack of a responsible contact person in the EU/UK
Prevention: Keep a digital technical file for each product. If you’re based outside Europe, appoint an Authorised Representative in the region.
6. Ethical Violations or Greenwashing
More recalls and bans are being linked to ethics and sustainability issues, such as:
- Proven use of forced labor, child labor, or unsafe factories
- False environmental claims (e.g., “eco-friendly” without proper certification)
- Rejected during audits by major retailers or platforms
Prevention: Use credible certifications like BSCI, Fair Wear, or GOTS. Avoid making unsubstantiated green claims under the new EU greenwashing rules (2025).
7. Lack of CE/UKCA Marking on Protective Clothing
If your apparel falls under PPE (e.g., high-visibility gear, gloves, medical garments), it must carry a CE (EU) or UKCA (UK) mark.
Prevention: Ensure your products are tested and certified by a notified body, and that they are properly marked if applicable.
8. Misleading Country of Origin or Branding
Selling a product as “Made in Italy” or “British design” without proper evidence can lead to product seizures or damage to your brand’s reputation.
Prevention: Be transparent with your labeling. If the final substantial transformation occurred in another country, make sure not to misrepresent it.
9. IP Infringement – Logos, Characters, Patterns
Products with unauthorised prints or trademarks (e.g., cartoon characters, designer logos) are often stopped at customs.
Prevention: Only use artwork and logos you’re licensed to use. Make sure your suppliers aren’t using copyrighted content without permission.
10. Quality Defects That Lead to Injury
Sometimes, it’s not about regulations, but simply poor quality. Products with sharp zippers, fragile seams, or malfunctioning closures can cause injuries. These defects are subject to enforcement under general safety regulations, so it’s important to address them proactively.
Example: In late 2024, a five-pack of baby socks sold by Dunnes Stores was withdrawn from the market and later recalled. The socks, made in Türkiye and sold online (including via dunnesstores.com), were designed for chhttps://ec.europa.eu/safety-gate-alerts/screen/webReport/alertDetail/10093570?lang=enildren aged 0 to 2.5 years. However, an uncut loop inside the toe area posed a risk of restricting blood flow, which could lead to injuries. Since the socks didn’t meet the EU’s General Product Safety Regulation, the manufacturer took action to remove the product from shelves and recall it from customers by March 2025.
Prevention: To avoid these issues, conduct thorough internal quality inspections and product testing. Always run wear trials on new designs to spot any potential problems before they reach the market.
Technical Files Checklist & Risk Assessment Template
For Clothing, Apparels, and Textiles
- Ensure Compliance
- Reduce Risk
- Streamline Documentation
- Supports market access
Get it now for just £40!
Final Takeaway
Avoiding bans and recalls isn’t just about avoiding fines. It’s about building trust with your customers and creating long-term value. As the EU and UK increase their focus on product surveillance, especially for online sales, apparel brands need to integrate compliance into their daily operations. Tools like Euverify can help by centralising risk assessments, documentation, and keeping you updated on regulatory changes.
Appoint Your EU Representative & Ensure Compliance for Your Clothing, Apparels, and Textile
- Stay compliant with EU regulations
- Hassle-free representation for Clothing, Apparels, and Textiles
Related Resources
Compliance
Industry Insights
Compliance
Industry Insights
Compliance
Industry Insights
Compliance
Industry Insights
Compliance
Compliance News & Updates
