Eurofins Softlines & Leather Monthly Bulletin (April 2026)
EU initiative on new reporting obligations for used textiles and textile waste
On 30 March 2026, the European Commission published the preparation of the draft act on new reporting obligations for used textiles and textile waste, marking another major step in implementing the 2025 amendment of the Waste Framework Directive (WFD). The initiative aims to harmonise how textile waste data is collected and reported across the EU, supporting the transition to a more circular textile economy. The initiative is currently available in the “Have Your Say” section of the website. Adoption by the Commission is planned for the first quarter of 2027.
Standard updates – textiles and footwear
The table below summarises the most recent standard updates and upcoming dates of withdrawal (non-exhaustive):
(*) Date of withdrawal: the latest date by which national standards conflicting with an EN (and HD for CENELEC) have to be withdrawn.
(**) Date of announcement: the latest date by which the existence of an EN (and HD for CENELEC), a TS, or a CWA has to be announced at the national level.
|
The European Committee for Standardisation (CEN)/CENELEC |
|||
|
Reference |
Title |
Date of withdrawal (*) |
Supersedes
|
|
|
Resilient, textile, laminate and modular mechanical locked floor coverings - Circular Economy - Floor coverings and underlays product passport |
2026-09-30 |
|
|
Textiles - Determination of the snagging resistance of fabrics - Part 1: Mace (spiked ball) test method (ISO 25086-1:2026) |
2026-08-31 |
|
|
|
Nonwovens - Test methods - Part 11: Run-off (ISO 9073-11:2026) |
2026-08-31 |
||
|
Reference |
Title |
Date of Announcement (**) |
Supersedes
|
|
Footwear - Performance requirements for components for footwear - Outsoles (ISO/TS 20939:2024) |
2026-06-30 |
|
|
|
Footwear - Performance requirements for components for footwear - Accessories (ISO/TS 20358:2024) |
2026-06-30 |
|
|
|
Footwear - Performance requirements for components for footwear - Uppers (ISO/TS 20952:2024) |
2026-06-30 |
|
|
|
Footwear - Performance requirements for components for footwear - Lining and insocks (ISO/TS 20953:2024) |
2026-06-30 |
|
|
|
Footwear - Performance requirements for components for footwear - Insoles (ISO/TS 20955:2024) |
2026-06-30 |
|
|
|
Footwear - Performance requirements for components for footwear - Shanks (ISO/TS 20961:2024) |
2026-07-31 |
|
|
|
Footwear - Performance requirements for components for footwear - Stiffeners and toe puffs (ISO/TS 20995:2024) |
|
|
|
|
Footwear - Performance requirements for components for footwear - Heels and top pieces (ISO/TS 23889:2024) |
2026-06-30 |
|
|
New REACH restrictions on 2,4‑Dinitrotoluene
On 21 April 2026, the European Commission adopted Commission Regulation (EU) 2026/859, amending Annex XVII of the REACH Regulation, to restrict the use of 2,4‑dinitrotoluene (2,4‑DNT) in articles placed on the EU market.
2,4‑DNT is classified as a Category 1B carcinogen and listed as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC). While EU manufacturing has already phased out its use, the Commission identified a continued risk arising from articles manufactured outside the EU, as REACH authorisation requirements do not apply to imported articles.
Articles may not contain 2,4‑DNT at concentrations equal to or greater than 0.1 % by weight after 10 May 2027. This applies to articles for both professional users and the general public.
Products most likely to be affected include rubber and elastomer articles, polyurethane foam products, and goods manufactured using recycled materials where legacy contamination may occur.
Regulation EU 2026/859 is directly applicable in all Member States without the need for it to be transposed at the national level. Economic operators are expected to review their supply chains and take appropriate measures to ensure compliance.
The measure reflects the EU’s continued commitment to protecting consumer health and ensuring a high level of chemical safety across the internal market.
Updated EUDR supply chain infographics
In March 2026, the European Commission, in collaboration with UNEP WCMC, published the third edition of the “EUDR Supply Chain Infographics”, which provides updated guidance on how companies must comply with the EU Regulation on Deforestation free Products (EUDR).
The new publication reflects recent regulatory amendments adopted in December 2025 and aims to simplify obligations for businesses across global supply chains dealing with high risk commodities such as beef, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, rubber, soy, and wood.
The updated infographics highlight that traceability is at the core of the EUDR. Companies must ensure that commodities can be traced back to their exact plot of land of origin.
Furthermore, the third edition clarifies the simplified procedures introduced by the amended regulation. For example:
- Micro and small primary operators (MSPOs) can now submit a one‑time simplified declaration instead of repeated due diligence statements.
- Due diligence statements (DDS) can cover multiple shipments for up to one year, reducing administrative burden.
- Downstream actors face reduced reporting obligations, focusing mainly on record‑keeping and traceability.
These measures aim to balance strict environmental controls with practical implementation for businesses, especially SMEs. By clarifying responsibilities and simplifying procedures, the Commission aims to facilitate compliance while maintaining high environmental standards.
EU unveils major customs reform
On 26 March 2026, the European Commission published questions and answers on the EU customs reform. This major reform of the EU Customs Union aims to modernise trade, improve digitalisation, and strengthen enforcement.
The reform addresses growing challenges such as increasing e-commerce imports and stricter EU regulatory requirements. It aims to reduce compliance costs while improving control over goods entering the EU.
Key measures include removing the €150 duty-free threshold, introducing a €3 duty on small e-commerce shipments from July 2026, and making online platforms responsible for customs duties, VAT, and product compliance.
The reform also introduces a “Trust & Check” system, allowing reliable companies to benefit from simplified procedures.
It will be implemented gradually between 2026 and 2034, marking an important step towards a more efficient and resilient EU customs system.
For more information, consult the European Commission website here.
New requirements for reusable menstrual products
On 17 April 2026, France launched a comprehensive framework combining reimbursement policy and product regulation with Decree No. 2026‑288, complemented by an “avis de projet” detailing technical requirements for reusable menstrual products such as period underwear and menstrual cups.
On the 23 of April 2026, the notice, “avis de projet”, provides detailed technical requirements on composition, safety, performance, durability, and inclusivity (sizing)—with mandatory independent testing and certification in an independent European lab (ISO/IEC 17025 certified).
For menstrual underwear, the requirements are:
|
Reusable menstrual underwear requirements |
|
|
Composition |
Product must have at least 3 layers: 1. Skin-contact layer: · ≥95% organic cotton (GOTS certified) · Up to 5% elastane allowed 2. Absorbent layer 3. Waterproof anti-leak layer |
|
Safety & user protection |
Full product must be OEKO‑TEX® Standard 100 (Class II) certified (valid <1 year, renewed annually) |
|
Must pass real-use trials: · ≥20 participants · Under gynecological & dermatological supervision · Worn 10–12 hours/day · No irritation or allergic reaction |
|
|
Performance requirements - Absorption |
At least one product ≥20 ml capacity |
|
Other products ≥12 ml allowed |
|
|
Absorption must: · Be tested (independent lab, ISO 20158 standard or equivalent) · Be declared on packaging · Remain stable (max ±10% variation) after ≥52 wash cycles · Volume absorbed without leakage for 12 hours |
|
|
Durability (ISO 15487 and ISO 5077/ISO 6330 standards or equivalent) |
After 1 and 52 entertainment cycles minimum with a temperature of 30 °C. Method of observation, conditions of washing, name of cycles, critères de cotation notamment |
|
Fabric deformation limited (≤10% knit / ≤6% woven) |
|
|
Pilling ≥ grade 3–4 |
|
|
Colour resistance ≥ grade 3 |
|
|
Absence of: No tears, breakage at welds and seams and Elastic degradation |
|
|
Sizing requirements |
Minimum 8 sizes per product. Must include a teen size (≈12–14 years) |
|
Must provide size equivalence (body measurements, e.g. hip circumference) |
|
|
Recommended alignment with ISO sizing standards (NF EN ISO 8559-2 standard or equivalent) |
|
These specifications represent one of the most detailed regulatory frameworks for menstrual textiles in Europe, with a strong focus on material safety, skin compatibility, and performance.
UK launches consultation to reform fire safety rules for upholstered furniture
On 31 March 2026, the UK Department for Business and Trade launched a new public consultation on the fire safety of domestic upholstered furniture.
The consultation focuses on updating the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988, widely regarded as a benchmark for fire safety but now considered in need of reform to reflect modern materials, manufacturing practices, and risks.
The consultation outlines several important reforms to the existing requirements, by introducing updated testing methods, reducing reliance on chemical flame retardants, supporting innovation and reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens on industry and adapting regulatory scope. This way, the government seeks to create a more proportionate, science-based, and future-proof framework.
For industry stakeholders, the consultation represents a critical opportunity to shape the future of furniture safety regulation in the UK while preparing for potential changes in compliance requirements.
The consultation period is open until 23 June 2026, giving stakeholders across industry, regulatory bodies, and the public an opportunity to provide feedback.
Standard update for textiles
In March and April 2026, the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology approved 690 industry standards, and the State Administration for Market Regulation (National Administration for Standardisation) approved 303 recommended national standards.
- Chinese Industrial Standard Announcement #9 of 2026
- Chinese National Standard Announcement #15 of 2026
The main standard related to textiles is:
- China Product (Executive) Standard List
|
No. |
Standard Code |
Standard name |
Applicable Scope |
Into force |
Replaced |
|
Textile Product |
|
||||
|
1 |
FZ/T 64125-2026 |
Disposable underwear |
This document specifies the classification and sizing, requirements, test methods, sampling rules, acceptance criteria, product instructions, packaging, transportation, and storage of disposable underwear. This document applies to disposable underwear products manufactured primarily from knitted or nonwoven fabrics; it shall be applied by analogy to compressed disposable underwear. |
2026-11-01 |
- |
|
2 |
FZ/T 81016-2026 |
Gambiered canton silk garments |
This document defines the terms and definitions related to ramie silk garments, specifies requirements and inspection rules, as well as provisions for labeling, packaging, transportation, and storage, and describes the corresponding inspection methods. This document applies to garments produced primarily from ramie silk (pure mulberry silk). Garments produced primarily from silk fabrics (with a silk content of 30% or more) that have been colored using ramie silk dyeing and finishing techniques may be implemented by reference. |
2028-05-01 |
FZ/T 81016 -2016 |
|
3 |
FZ/T 81028-2026 |
Xiuhe suit |
This document defines the terms and definitions related to Xiuhé attire, specifies requirements and inspection rules, as well as provisions for labeling, packaging, transportation, and storage, and describes the corresponding inspection methods. This document applies to Xiuhé attire manufactured primarily from woven textiles; other types of Chinese formal wear shall be implemented by reference. |
2026-11-01 |
- |
|
4 |
FZ/T 81029-2026 |
Woven casual trousers |
This document specifies the requirements and inspection classification rules for woven casual pants, as well as provisions regarding labeling, packaging, transportation, and storage, and describes the corresponding test methods. This document applies to casual pants manufactured primarily from woven textile fabrics. |
2026-11-01 |
- |
|
5 |
FZ/T 61012-2026 |
Polyester knitted fleece blanket |
This document specifies the requirements, inspection rules, marking, packaging, transportation, and storage of knitted fleece blankets made of polyester fibers, and describes the corresponding test methods. This document applies to the design, production, and inspection of knitted fleece blankets made of 100% polyester fibers; other knitted fleece blankets with a polyester fiber content of not less than 50% may be implemented by reference. |
2026-11-01 |
- |
|
6 |
FZ/T 62036-2026 |
Latex pillow and cushion |
This document specifies the requirements, inspection rules, marking, packaging, storage, and transportation of latex pillows and cushions, and describes the corresponding test methods. This document applies to the design, production, and inspection of latex pillows and cushions. |
2028-05-01 |
FZ/T 62036 -2017 |
|
7 |
FZ/T 62056-2026 |
Buckwheat husk pillow and cushion |
This document provides a classification of buckwheat hull pillows and cushions, specifies requirements, inspection rules, marking, packaging, storage, and transportation for such products, and describes the corresponding test methods. This document applies to the design, production, and inspection of buckwheat hull pillows and mats (where the mass percentage of buckwheat hulls is ≥50%). Products with a mass percentage of buckwheat hulls between 30% and 50% (excluding 50%) may be implemented by reference. |
2026-11-01 |
- |
|
8 |
FZ/T 62033-2026 |
Microfiber towel |
This document defines the terms and definitions related to microfiber towels, and specifies the requirements, test methods, inspection rules, as well as marking, packaging, transportation, and storage. This document applies to towel products manufactured primarily from microfiber. |
2028-05-01 |
FZ/T 62033 -2016 |
|
9 |
FZ/T 73010-2026 |
Knitted workmanship sweater |
This document specifies the specifications or sizing, requirements, testing, sampling rules, acceptance criteria, as well as product usage instructions, packaging, transportation, and storage for knitted technical garments. This document applies to knitted garments manufactured from pure, blended, or interwoven fibers such as cotton, linen, silk, and synthetic fibers (including products made from flat-knitted fabrics, hand-knitted fabrics, and knitted fabric panels). This document does not apply to clothing for infants and young children aged 36 months or younger. |
2028-05-01 |
FZ/T 73010 -2016 |
|
10 |
FZ/T 73023-2026 |
Antibacterial knitwear |
This document specifies the sizing or specifications, requirements, test methods, sampling rules, evaluation criteria, and labeling and packaging for antimicrobial knitted fabrics. This document applies to knitted fabrics that possess antimicrobial properties either throughout the entire fabric or in specific areas. This document does not apply to knitted fabrics intended for infants and young children aged 36 months or younger. |
2028-05-01 |
FZ/T 73023 -2006 |
|
11 |
FZ/T 73088-2026 |
Knitted thermal gloves |
This document specifies the sizing, requirements, test methods, sampling rules, acceptance criteria, as well as instructions for use, packaging, transportation, and storage of knitted thermal gloves. This document applies to knitted gloves with thermal properties made primarily from various textile fibers. |
2026-11-01 |
- |
2. China Test Method List
|
No. |
Standard Code |
Standard name |
Applicable Scope |
Into force |
Replaced |
|
Footwear Product Test Method |
|
||||
|
1 |
GB/T 46974-2025 |
Footwear—Chemical tests—Determination of short-chain chlorinated paraffins |
This document describes a qualitative and quantitative method for determining the content of short-chain chlorinated paraffins (C10–13, SCCPs) in footwear and footwear components using gas chromatography–negative ion chemical ionization mass spectrometry. This document applies to the determination of SCCP content in various types of footwear materials. |
2026-07-01 |
GB/T 46974-2025 |
|
Textile Product Test Method |
|
||||
|
1 |
FZ/T 01083-2026 |
Test method for surface appearance and dimensional change after dry cleaning for composite specimen of fusible interlining |
This document describes the test methods for evaluating changes in appearance and measuring dimensional changes in composite specimens consisting of a bonded interlining and a standard fabric after dry cleaning. This document applies to the evaluation of changes in appearance and the determination of dimensional change rates after dry cleaning for composite specimens with bonded interlinings using woven, knitted, or nonwoven fabrics as the base fabric; other types of bonded interlinings may be evaluated by analogy. |
2028-05-01 |
FZ/T 01083-2017 |
|
2 |
FZ/T 01084-2026 |
Test method for surface appearance and dimensional change after washing for composite specimen of fusible interlining |
This document describes the test methods for evaluating changes in appearance and measuring dimensional changes in composite specimens consisting of interlining bonded to standard fabrics after washing. This document applies to the evaluation of changes in appearance and the determination of dimensional change rates after washing for composite specimens consisting of interlining bonded to woven, knitted, or nonwoven fabrics as the base fabric; other types of interlining may be evaluated by analogy. |
2028-05-01 |
FZ/T 01084 -2017 |
|
3 |
FZ/T 01189-2026 |
Textiles- Evaluation method of suitability for sensitive skin |
This document describes evaluation methods for textiles suitable for sensitive skin. This document applies to all types of textile products. |
2026-11-01 |
- |
|
4 |
FZ/T 60001-2026 |
Testing method for oil content of sewing thread |
This document describes methods for determining the oil content of sewing threads using the Soxhlet extraction method, infrared spectroscopy based on Beer’s law, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. This document applies to the determination of oil content in various types of sewing threads; it may also be used as a reference for determining the oil content of embroidery threads. |
2028-05-01 |
FZ/T 60001-2007 |
|
5 |
FZ/T 70021-2026 |
Test method for durability of socks |
This document describes test methods for the durability of socks. This document applies to all types of socks. |
2026-11-01 |
- |
|
6 |
FZ/T 80021-2026 |
Determination of perspiration stain resistance property for collar and cuff of garments |
This document describes a method for determining the resistance of garment collars and cuffs to sweat stains. This document applies to garments manufactured primarily from woven textiles; other fabrics may be tested in accordance with this document. |
2026-11-01 |
- |
|
7 |
FZ/T 80022-2026 |
Determination of the abrasion resistance of collar |
This document describes a method for determining the abrasion resistance of folded-edge collars. This document applies to collars made primarily from woven textiles. |
2026-11-01 |
- |
|
8 |
FZ/T 80023-2026 |
Test method and evaluation for wet adhesion of woven garments |
This document describes methods for testing and evaluating the wet-state cling of woven garments. This document applies to garments intended to be worn next to the skin and manufactured primarily from woven textiles. |
2026-11-01 |
- |
|
9 |
GB/T 47399-2026 |
Test method for antibacterial activity of sanitary wares—Luminescence method |
This document describes the principles, general requirements, reagents and culture media, equipment and materials, test microorganisms, samples and pretreatment, test procedures, calculation of results, and test reports for the evaluation of the antibacterial properties of antibacterial sanitary ceramics and their products using the fluorescence method. This document applies to the testing of the antibacterial properties of antibacterial sanitary ceramics and their products, as well as metal ion- and rare earth-modified antibacterial sanitary ceramics. |
2026-10-01 |
GB/T 47399-2026 |
|
10 |
GB/T 47410-2026 |
Determination of the content of short-chain chlorinated paraffins in chlorinated paraffin products |
This document describes the determination of the content of C10–C13 short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) in chlorinated paraffin products. Method A is gas chromatography–electron capture negative ionization mass spectrometry, and Method B is gas chromatography. This document applies to the determination of short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) in chlorinated paraffin products, with a detection limit of 100 mg/kg for Method A and 0.10% for Method B. |
2026-10-01 |
GB/T 47410-2026 |
Below you will find a monthly summary of product recalls and alerts in Europe (Source: “Safety Gate (RAPEX)”) and the U.S. (Source “CPSC”).
Safety Gate (RAPEX) (European Commission Rapid Alert System for dangerous non-food products – Alerts reported by EU national authorities).
The following six alerts regarding clothing, textile and fashion items were reported between week 12 and week 16 of 2026.
|
Type of Risk |
Number of alerts |
Notes |
|
Chemical |
1 |
Wallet The leather in the product contains chromium VI. The product does not comply with REACH Regulation. |
|
1 |
Leather shoes The leather in the product contains chromium VI. The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation. |
|
|
1 |
Handbag The synthetic leather parts of the handbags contain excessive concentrations of bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP). The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation. |
|
|
1 |
Bracelet The leather in the product contains chromium VI. The product does not comply with the REACH Regulation. |
|
|
Chemical, Injuries |
1 |
Children's dress The textile label on the product contains chromium VI Moreover, the product bears functional cords (decorative ribbons) with free ends and toggles in the waist area. The product does not comply with the General Product Safety Regulation nor with EN 14682. |
|
Strangulation |
1 |
Fancy-dress costume The product has a free end in the neck area (train attached to the neck) which can become trapped during the child’s various activities, leading to strangulation. The product does not comply with the General Product Safety Regulation nor with EN 14682. |
United States
From the 9th April of 2026 to the 7th May of 2026, the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) published the following recalls: 2 recall of textile & leather products
|
Hazard |
Number of alerts |
Notes |
|
Burn |
1 |
Children’s loungewear The recalled children’s loungewear violates mandatory flammability standards for children’s sleepwear, posing a risk of serious injuries or deadly burn hazards to children. |
|
Strangulation |
1 |
Youth sweatshirts The drawstrings in the recalled clothing can get caught on objects and cause death or serious injury to children from strangulation. The sweatshirts are in violation of the federal regulations for children’s upper outerwear and present a substantial product hazard. |