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HONG KONG, July 16, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- In light of the European Football Championships, the test purchasers at TUV Rheinland bought 29 children's football shirts in June 2012 at prices ranging from EUR 3 to EUR 20. The purchases were made in Spain (10 shirts), Italy (10 shirts), the Netherlands (5 shirts) and Germany (4 shirts) at venues such as markets and beach kiosks. The shirts were then analysed at TUV Rheinland's harmful substances laboratory in Cologne. TUV Rheinland's experts tested for various substances including banned azodyes in coloured fabric, allergy-inducing dispersion dyes (also in coloured fabric) and the cadmium, lead and plasticisers sometimes found in imprinted fabric. These partially toxic substances can trigger allergies, are suspected of being carcinogenic and can affect the hormonal balance of the wearer. The analysis results showed a lack of toxic substances and, unfortunately, a lack of quality.
Nevertheless, it is not advisable to purchase cheap goods because the joy spread by such shirts is short-lived. "You shouldn't let yourself be ripped off when spending on a holiday whim. In 21 out of the 29 test purchases, the quality of the fabric, finishing and colouring left a lot to be desired. High-quality textiles are always preferable", TUV Rheinland textiles expert, Mr. Andreas Metzger advised. An asymmetrical fit, smeared printing and imperfect workmanship at the seams were detected in many of the test pieces and the care instructions were inadequate in 21 out of the 29 garments. Metzger added, "With such cheap goods of dubious origin, the goods must have been produced in conditions with poor environmental and social standards too."
Take these tips when purchasing textiles
The use of chemicals in textiles is standard, but their safety depends on the type and concentration. The textiles industry in Germany alone uses around 75,000 tonnes of chemical additives a year. If consumers want to play it safe when making a purchase, just follow your nose. If the goods give off a funny smell, this is the first sign that a dubious additive has been used. Looking for test marks from independent testing bodies such as TUV Rheinland on high-quality textiles will protect consumers further. "The Toxproof seal of approval from TUV Rheinland guarantees that the level of toxic substances is below the minimum statutory requirements", Mr Metzger explained.
As a basic rule, consumers should examine textile labels, which not only provide information about the material and care instructions, but also about where the goods came from and who made them. Consumers should know where to address queries and complaints. Under no circumstances should you purchase unlabelled clothing. Instructions such as "colour bleeds" or "wash separately" can also indicate unhealthy, non-colourfast substances. If possible, wash all washable items of clothing according to the care instructions before wearing.
The specialists at TUV Rheinland also test the compatibility of metallic clothing accessories such as the buttons on jeans, which often contain nickel. Manufacturers frequently cover nickel-containing buttons with paint, which quickly comes off with wear and leaves the nickel exposed to trigger typical contact allergic reactions such as itchy skin rashes. Anti-mould preservatives such as dimethylfurmarate (DMF) can also cause violent skin reactions. In addition, the use of heavy metals, particularly hexavalent chromium, in leather products can also compromise the health of the wearer. TUV Rheinland advises consumers to choose their clothing carefully and avoid short life spans and health hazards.
TOXPROOF
Products such as home textiles, mattresses and clothes can all contain toxins that compromise consumers' health by polluting the living spaces and indoor air. With the TOXPROOF certificate, health-conscious consumers will know they are making the right choice when selecting your products.
Press Contact:
Simon Hung
Tel: +852-2192-1948
Email: simon.hung@hk.chn.tuv.com
