Childrens Safe Product Requirements

Childrens Safe Product Requirements
Introduction
We have delivered high quality
merchandise to our customers for
over 149 years. It is the partnerships
we have built with our vendors,
suppliers, testing labs and other
agencies that ensure we meet these
high quality standards with every
product.
Our policies, processes, guidelines
and requirements are set forth to help
us achieve our goals of staying
consistent with quality, fit, exceeding
safety regulations and delivering the best products in childrens clothing to the
customer.
Statement of Understanding
The Childrens Safe Product Requirements (also referred to as document) was created
as a general reference guideline. Carters makes no representation or warranty,
expressed or implied, as to the completeness of the procedures or requirements in this
document, or that such procedures or requirements satisfy all applicable orders,
decrees, statutes, regulations or other laws (collectively, the Legal Requirements). This
document is not to be considered or used as all inclusive and is subject to change with
or without prior notice.
Confidential | Proprietary | Effective 2015 | V.1
Table of Contents_____________________________________
When using online, click the Main Titles or the Subtitles below to jump to that section in the document. To return to
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I. General Safety Requirements .............................................................................................................................. 3
1.
2.
3.
Small Parts (Tension Test, Graspable Definition)

Sharp Points and Sharp Edges
Restricted Substances
II. Belts ...................................................................................................................................................................... 5

III. Drawstrings ......................................................................................................................................................... 6
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Definitions
General Requirements
Functional Drawstrings, Ties and Cords (Chart, Point of Measurement)
Non-Functional Drawstrings, Ties and Cords (Chart, Point of Measurement)
Miscellaneous
IV. Embellishments .................................................................................................................................................. 9

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
Applied Lace or Eyelet
Beads
Bows
Decorative Tapes and Trims
Embroidery
Fringe
Loops
Yarn Floats and Metallic Yarn
Pompoms
Rhinestones (Heat Transfer)
Rhinestones (Pronged)
Rosettes and Appliques
Sequins
Tassels
V. Hardware ........................................................................................................................................................... 16
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Knee Safety Zone
Buttons
Hook and Loop Closures (Velcro)
Toggles
Other Metal Hardware (Snaps, Grommets, Hasp, Sliders, D-Rings, Hook and Eye, Metal Hardware)
VI. Miscellaneous ................................................................................................................................................... 18

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Bibs
Faux (Fake) Fur
Footed Garments
Hats and Caps
Feathers (any kind) and Natural Fur
Neck Ties
Scarves
Sleeve Tabs
Swim Shorts and Shorts Liners
Toxicity, Skin Irritants and Gel Filled Products
VII. Zippers .............................................................................................................................................................. 20

1.
2.
3.
Safety Requirements
Decorative Pulls
VIII. Best Practices .................................................................................................................................................. 23
Carters Childrens Safe Product Requirements| V.1 | Issued: 04/10/2015
CONFIDENTIAL | PROPRIETARY
I. General Requirements___________________________
The general safety requirements covered in this section apply to all Carters products.
1. Small Parts
Definition
By US law, a small part is defined as a toy or
other item intended for children under three (3)
years of age that can completely fit into a
specially designed test cylinder. (See image 1)
If the object
completely fits into
the test cylinder
(pictured), it is
considered a
choking hazard and
is prohibited by US
law.
A small part can be
a whole item or a
piece of an item that
breaks off during
testing which
simulates use and
abuse by children.
Image 1
Carters uses a
special Tension Test (see Tension Test below)
to simulate use and abuse by children. The
Tension Test is identical in procedure to the
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC),
but uses more stringent requirements.
Test Method
The main body of the item is secured in the
test apparatus.
An appropriate test clamp is attached from
the opposite side to securely grasp the
component being tested.
A force of 20.2 lbs. is applied over a period
of five (5) seconds and is maintained for an
additional ten (10) seconds. (see Brand
Standards Chart on page 4).
Result
If during or after tension is applied the
component does not break off and become a
small part (as defined in Section 1. Small
Parts), it will pass.
o Two-dimensional pieces of fabric or yarn
that become removed during the Tension
Test are not considered to be a
hazardous small part because they pose
little choking risk. (See Image 2 and
Image 3).
Tension Test
Requirements
All graspable (see References on page 4)
components attached to garments and
accessories which include, items covered in
Sections II VII, such as sequins, rosettes,
zippers, toggles, buttons, bows, rhinestones,
pompoms, etc. that could potentially become a
small part after Tension Testing. Textile pieces
which are under inch in all directions do not
need to be tested. Other exceptions are noted
within this document.
Image 2
Image 3
References: Graspable (Definition)

According to Consumer Product Safety
Commission (CPSC) guidelines, an item is
graspable if:
It can be gripped between the thumb and the
forefinger, and or between the teeth of a
child.
If a 0.040 thick feeler gauge (see image 4)
can be placed
between the
component and
the main body.
Feeler Gauge
is a
hemispherical
or tapered
Image 4
component
with a gap
greater than 0.040 inches between the
component and the main body.
Brand Standards Chart

As an international brand with high safety and
quality standards, Carters uses higher
requirements than the US Regulation:
US
Regulation
Carters
Requirements
All Childrens
Products
Age Range
3 and Under
Tension
Test
Requirement
15 lbs. for 10
seconds
20.2 lbs. for 10

seconds
Scope
Toys and
other specific
articles
intended for
use by
children
All types of
Childrens
Products
2. Sharp Points and Sharp Edges

Childrens products or parts of products may
contain sharp points or edges before or after
simulating use and abuse testing.
Sharp Point
The item(s) is
considered
hazardous if it fails
the Consumer
Product Safety
Commissions
(CPSC) Sharp Point
Test before or after
simulated use and
abuse testing.
(see Image 1)
Sharp Edge
The item(s) is considered hazardous if it fails the
CPSC Sharp Edge Test before or after simulated
use and abuse testing. (see Image 2)
Image 2
Image 1
How it is measured: A potential sharp point is

placed against a 1 lbs. weighted fixture that is
then positioned to rest upon the potential sharp
point. If the light comes on, it is considered a
sharp point and is not permitted for children
under eight (8) years of age.
How it is measured: A piece of tape is wrapped

around the end of the rod and the potential
sharp edge is placed against the rod while it
rotates. If the edge cuts at least inch, it is
considered a sharp edge and is not permitted for
any children of any age.
3. Restricted Substances
The use of certain
chemicals and
substances in
Childrens
Products is
restricted and or
prohibited.
substances may be added with or without prior

notice.
Please refer to the

Quality Manual in
the Minimum Test Requirements Section for the
scope of the restrictions and limits.
A list of the most common restricted substances
is listed in this section for a quick reference only.
This list is reviewed regularly and
Lead
Phthalates
Formaldehyde
Chromium
Antimony
Arsenic
Barium
Cadmium
Mercury
Selenium
II. Belts_______________________________________
1. Requirements
Sizes 0-24M
All belts must be permanently attached to the
garment to prevent removal.
o Excludes size 2T.
o Exceptions, rigid cord belts and braided
belts.
When the belt is pulled to the intended size

as during wear, free ends cannot exceed 11
inches.
All Sizes over 24 months

Not required to be attached.
Other Requirements
Belts without Buckles (All Sizes)
When untied, and measured from the last
loop, free ends must not fall below the hem
of the garment.
Must have belt loops at both side seams.
For Korea
In an untied state, free ends of belts cannot
exceed 5.5 inches in length from the point
where they are to be tied when the garment
is opened to its largest and laid flat. (see
Image 1).
Image 1
Belts with Buckles

When buckled in the middle hole and
measured from where the strap exits the
buckle, the strap end must not exceed:
o 3 inches for sizes 0-5T
o 5 inches sizes larger than 5T
Free Ends
Toggles and knots are not permitted on free
ends, but free ends can be wrapped instead.
Fringe length restrictions:
o 0-24 month inch maximum.
o Other sizes 2 inches maximum.
Fringe must be securely attached so it does
not easily pull out.
Belts on Childrens Bathrobes

Width cannot be less than 1 inches.
Must not hang below the hem of the garment
when untied and measured from the last belt
loop.
All sizes must be securely and permanently

attached to the garment.
Adjustable Waistbands
Must be securely attached to the garment
with a bartack to prevent removal.
Wal-Mart and Sams Club
All belts for sizes 0-5T must be permanently
and securely attached at the waist of the
garment to prevent removal.
For China
Refer to III. Drawstrings section 2. General
Requirements under For China.
III. Drawstrings__________________________________
1. Definitions
Functional Drawstring, Cord or Tie
Any non-retractable cord, ribbon, or tape of any
material with two (2) loose ends to pull together
to adjust parts of a garment to provide for
closure or to adjust the size of the garment
opening. (See Image 1). This definition is not
limited to cords, ribbons, tapes that pass through
a channel.
Non-functional (Decorative) Drawstring, Cord

or Tie
Any textile or non-textile material with two (2)
loose ends that has no drawstring functionality
and is not used to adjust the size of the garment
opening or to fasten the garment. (See Image 2).
Image 2
Image 1
Continuous Drawstring
Any textile or non-textile material that passes
through a channel around the total
circumference of the garment and has no loose
ends and is used to adjust the size of the
garment opening.
Elastic Cord or Tie

Cord with high stretchability with complete or
nearly complete recovery.
(See image 3).
Image 4
Image 3
Halter Neck Cord or Tie

Functional cord, or fabric worn around the back
of the neck to hold the garment together leaving
the back and shoulders bare.
(See image 4).
2. General Requirements (when permitted)
Cannot emerge from the back of the

garment.
Cannot be tied at the back of the garment.
Not permitted on the hem of a garment if it
finishes at or below the ankle or below the
elbow.
Ends must be secured with a heat seal, laser
cut, or be double turned and secured with a
lock stitch. If a plastic sleeve is used, must
withstand 20.5 lbs. of force (pull test).
If hem of garment finishes below the hip it
must not hang below the hem and must be
enclosed inside the garment or lie flat to the
garment.
Must be secured to the garment with a
bartack at its midpoint so that the string
cannot be pulled out through one side and
become an entrapment hazard.
When used at sleeves (above the elbow
including the shoulder) it should be secured
from where it exits the channel with one of
the following:
o With a bartack no further than inch
from the buttonhole or eyelet.
With a bartack on the outside of a sleeve.
All drawstrings, functional cords and

decorative cords that finish at the ankle of
any garment (ex: coats, skirts, pants), must
be completely enclosed inside the garment.
Toggles and knots

Are not permitted on free ends.
Beads
Not permitted for sizes 0-5T.
Permitted for sizes 4 and above but not
allowed at the free ends.
For China
A tied belt and or sash is 3cm in width and
above.
A drawstring and or functional cord, (i.e.
chain, ribbon etc.) is 3cm in width or less that
passes through a channel, loop or eyelet,
and adjust the size of the opening, adjust
part of the garment, or fasten the garment.
3. Functional Drawstrings, Ties and Cords

About this chart:
Measurement is taken from point of attachment.
Can be no longer than the maximum length listed below.
Wal-Mart (WMT) and Sams Club (Sams) is listed separately for maximum length.
Area of Garment
Hood and Neck
Waist Area (Tops)
Waist Area (Bottoms)

Measurement is for
what is visible when
garment is fully
extended
Hem below the waist
and above the ankle
Measurement is for
what is visible when
garment is fully
extended
Sleeves above the
elbow including
shoulder around the
circumference of the
arm, and below elbow
Item Used
0 - 24 Months
2T- 5T
4 - 18
Any
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Drawstrings
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
4
WMT or Sams: 3
5
WMT or Sams: 3
5
WMT or Sams: 3
4
WMT or Sams: 3
5
WMT or Sams: 3
5
WMT or Sams: 3
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Ties and Cords tops with

center front opening
Ties and Cords tops
without center front
opening
Drawstrings
Ties and Cords
Drawstrings
Ties and Cords
Drawstrings
4. Non-Functional (Decorative) Drawstrings, Ties and Cords

About this chart:
Measurement is taken from point of attachment.
Can be no longer than the maximum length listed below.
Wal-Mart (WMT) and Sams Club (Sams) is listed separately for maximum length.
Area of Garment
Hood and Neck
Waist Area (Tops)
Waist Area (Bottoms)

- must be securely
attached with a bartack
from the exit point.
Item Used
0 - 24 Months
2T- 5T
4 - 18
Any
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Drawstrings
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
4
WMT or Sams: 3
5
WMT or Sams: 3
5
WMT or Sams: 3
4
WMT or Sams: 3
5
WMT or Sams: 3
5
WMT or Sams: 3
Ties and Cords tops with

center front opening
Ties and Cords tops
without center front
opening
Drawstrings
Ties and Cords
Hem below the waist

and above the ankle
Any
3
WMT or Sams:
not permitted
3
WMT or Sams:
not permitted
3
WMT or Sams: not
permitted
At Sleeves above the

elbow including
shoulder
Any
3
WMT or Sams:
not permitted
3
WMT or Sams:
not permitted
5
WMT or Sams: not
permitted
At Sleeves below the

elbow
Any
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
Not Permitted
5. Miscellaneous
Elastic Cords and or Ties
Must not be used in the hood and neck area
of the garment.
Cord locks should lie flat against garment.
Elastic cords must not have more than 1 inch
protruding from the opening when fully
extended.
Retractable Cords
For the head, neck, waist and bottom areas:
Fully retractable drawstrings or ties are
exempt from American Society for Testing
Materials (ASTM) specifications and or
Consumer Product Safety Commission
(CPSC) guidelines.
Halter Neck Cord or Tie
No Free ends allowed in the head and neck
area.
Hook and loop, self-fabric, buttons or snap
closure is required.
Continuous Drawstrings
Not permitted on any size or on any area of
the garment.
Rouching
Considered a
functional drawstring
or tie (as defined in III.
Drawstrings, Section 1
Definitions).
How to Measure
With drawstring or tie
not in its rouched
(pulled) state,
measure the visible
part of the drawstring
or tie from the exit
point to the end.
Image 1
Maximum length of the rouching drawstring

and or tie:
o
0-5T - Not permitted on any size or

on any area of the garment.
4 and above 3 inches maximum.
IV. Embellishments______________________________
1. General Requirements
If non-graspable
Must withstand ten (10) home launderings
without becoming loose or detached.
If graspable
Must meet general safety requirements.
The use of glitter as an embellishment is not permitted in infant sizes.
2. Applied Lace or Eyelet

The following are subject to the General
Requirements as defined in Section I.
Laces (image 1)
Applied Lace
Crochet Lace
Chunky Knit Sweaters (image 2)
Image 1
Image 2
3. Beads
All Size Ranges:
Rows and Clusters Attachment (image 1)

Double thread (24 tex or larger).
Single thread (60 tex).
Slip knot thread after each 3 beads.
Final tie-off requires double knot.
Back design with fusible backing to avoid
abrasive surface on underside.
Glass, Metal or Wood

Beads
Not permitted.
Individual Bead
Attachment
Double thread (24
Image 1
tex or larger).
Single thread (60 tex).
End of thread must be knotted.
Double back stitch on underside.
Floats < inch / Thread ends < inch.
Caviar Bead Transfer, (Image 2)

0-24 month not
permitted.
2-5T and 4-6X and
above - must retain
90% pattern integrity
Image 2
after 10 wash and
dry cycles.
4. Bows
Requirements:
Must be attached with at least one bartack at
the center.
No toggles or knots at the end of tails.
This table provides the maximum
lengths for fixed bow loops and tail
ends. (excludes Wal-Mart and Sams
see chart below)
Fixed Bows
Located in the Hood Neck, Ankle or Below
the Elbow
Fixed Bows
Located in the Chest Area
Fixed Bows
In all areas other than those listed above
End must be secured with a heat seal, laser

cut, or double turned and secured with a lock
stitch.
Sizes 0-24M
Sizes 2T-5T
Sizes >5T
Loop
Tail
Loop
Tail
Loop
Tail
2"
1.5"
2"
1.5"
3"
2"
3"
3"
3"
3"
3"
5.5"
4"
4"
4"
4"
4"
5.5"
Wal-Mart and Sams Requirements:

This table provides the maximum
lengths for fixed bow loops and tail ends.
Fixed Bows
Located at the Hood Neck, Ankle or Below
the Elbow
Fixed Bows
In all areas other than those listed above
Sizes 0-5T
Sizes >5T
Loop
Tail
Loop
Tail
3"
3"
3"
5.5"
1.5"
1"
1.5"
1"
Confidential | Proprietary | Effective 2015 | V.1
5. Decorative Trims and Tapes
Subject to the General Requirements as

defined in Section I.
6. Embroidery
Requirements
Any embroidery application with an abrasive
backside that comes into direct contact with
the skin must have a backing material Over
the Back (OTB) to prevent scratching. (See
Images 1 through 3)
Image 3 - Backing
Image 1 - Front
Image 2 - Back
7. Fringe
Requirements
Must be sewn on, (not fused, glued or
bonded). (image 1)
Must withstand a 1.5 lbs. pull force when
strands are pulled individually.
On embroidered designs, fringe length
can be no longer than inch.
Image1
8. Loops
Belt Loops
Must lie flat against the garment and not
exceed 3 inches in total loop circumference
to reduce entrapment risk, as shown in
Image 1 with the red circle.
Image 1
For Wal-Mart or Sams Club, belt loop can be

no longer than 1 inches between bartacks,
as shown in image 2 with red line.
Image 2
11
Locker Loops
Must be located in the center back neck on
the inside of the garment (not at yoke).
Must not exceed 3 inches in total loop
circumference (as shown in image 3 with red
circle).
Exposed length of hammer loop cannot

exceed 3 inches from the pocket or side
seam to the end of the bartack.
Button Loops
Can only be as
long in length
as required for
fastening,
otherwise not
permitted. (See
image 5).
Image 5
Image 3
Hanger Loops
Not permitted on sizes 0-5T.
For sizes 4 and up, loops should be
constructed of clear elastic tape.
Cannot exceed 3 inches in total loop
circumference.
Looped Tabs
Must be secured in the seam of the garment.
(see image 6)
If the label extends out more than inch
from the garment, it must be stitched
perpendicular to the attachment seam to
prevent a finger entanglement.
Hammer Loops (image 4)

For sizes 0-24 months, the entire loop must
be sewn down.
One end must be
secured in side
seam and the
other in the
pocket seam with
reinforced
stitching and must
Image 4
lie flat against the
garment.
Must be secured on the underside at the
center of the fold with a bartack.
Image 6
9. Yarn Floats and Metallic Yarn

Yarn Floats
Socks must not be longer than inch in
area below the ankle for following size
ranges:
o 3-12 months
o 12-24 months
o 2-4 years
Mittens floats not permitted.
Sweaters and Cardigans inch maximum.
Other garments 3/8 inch maximum length.
Metallic Yarn
Size Range: All
Cannot be abrasive
on either face or
reverse surface
(see Image 1).
Wal-Mart USA, Sams
and Wal-Mart Canada
Image 1
Sizes 0-9 month metallic yarns not permitted on any items
12
10. Pompoms
Attached
Must be sewn directly
onto the garment or
hanging from trim.
See image 1.
Image 1
The individual yarns must

pass a 1.5 lbs. tension
test in addition to the
20.2 tension test on the
entire pompom.
Note: When embedded into a tape trim, ie.

popcorn trim it subject to the General
Requirements as defined in Section I.
Image 2
Pompom on Ends of Items
Must not be attached to the end of a
drawstring, cord, scarf or tie with free ends.
Must not be glued, fused or bonded onto the

fabric.
For use on Hats or Caps

May be used on the crown of the hat or from
loose hanging chinstraps, not both.
Pompom made of Individual Yarns

The yarns must be sewn into one central
core. (See Image 2)
Wal-Mart or Sams Club sizes 0-5T

Must not be made from hand knitting or
sweater yarn.
11. Rhinestones (Heat Transfers)

Requirements for all Size Ranges:
(see Image 1)
No sharp or jagged edges. Note: Points of
tear drop, oblong, and square shape stones
can potentially present sharp edges.
Additional Requirements for Wal-Mart USA

and Sams Club
Sizes 0-5T - not permitted.
Additional Requirements for Wal-Mart
Canada
Sizes 4-6X - must not be constructed of
glass or metal.
Jewels on Tulle, image 2
Sizes 4-6X - not recommended.
Image 1
Additional Requirements for Sizes 0-5T

Stones not to be applied over sugar glitter or
topical print area as the uneven surface
contributes to weakened attachment.
Image 2
13
12. Rhinestones (Pronged)

Sizes 0-5T
Not permitted.
Sizes 4-6X and above
No sharp or jagged
edges; outer or inner
surfaces.
Must not be attached
by hand.

and Sams Club
Image 1

Canada
Sizes 4-6X - must not be constructed of
glass.
13. Rosettes and Appliques

Requirements
Whole flowers must pass tension test of 20.2
pounds.
Individual petals (if graspable) must pass

attachment strength test requirement of 9.0
lbs.
Any decoration with an abrasive backside

that comes into direct contact with the skin
must have a backing material (OTB) to
prevent scratching.
Image 1
Image 2
14. Sequins
Requirements for all Size Ranges:
No metal sequins.
No sharp edges.
If stitched, must be attached by machine with
lockstitch.
Must not be hand stitched.
Maximum length thread end is inch.
Heat transfer sequins are acceptable, if
securely applied.
Note: Sequins attached with 1 to 2 points of

attachment are considered graspable. To
reduce the likelihood of it being graspable,
increase to 4 points per sequin minimum.
(see Image 1)
Image 1
14

and Sams:
Sizes 0-5T - 5 points of attachment around
each sequin. Heat transfer sequins not
permitted.
Sequin Placement to Minimize Scratching

Must be offset from edge of garment so as to
not scratch bare skin of child.
o Image 3 acceptable
o Image 4 unacceptable

Canada:
Sizes 0-4T - not permitted
Sizes 4-6X - 2 or 3 points of attachment
around each sequin. One point for paillette
sequins.
Chain Stitch Sequins
Not permitted if criteria that sequins be
attached by machine with lockstitch is not
met.(see image 2)
Image 4
Image 3
All-Over Sequins
Sizes 0-5T - must be covered with tulle.
Sizes 4-6X and above - tulle recommended
(See image 5)
Image 2
Image 5
15. Tassels
Attachment
Must be sewn to the fabric (not fused, glued
or bonded).
Must not be attached to the end of a
drawstring, cord, scarf, or ties with free ends.
Hats or Caps
Permitted only on sizes over 5T.
Can be placed on the crown of the hat or
from loose hanging chinstraps no longer than
3 inches, but not both.
Individual Yarns
Individual yarns composing the tassel must
withstand a 1.5 lbs. tension test, in addition
to the entire tassel tension requirement of
20.2 lbs.
Wal-Mart or Sams Club sizes 0-5T

Must not be made from hand knitting or
sweater yarns.
15
V. Hardware____________________________________
Must be non-ferrous (no iron or steel).

Must not be made of wood, cork, leather,
mother of pearl (shell) or glass materials.
Must not have sharp edges, rough edges, or

exposed prongs and must be free of rust and
corrosion.
2. Knee Safety Zone Area
The Knee Safety Zone Area is determined by

placing the center point of the Rectangle at
the center of the knee.(See image 1)
Is a rectangular area on each leg of the
pants around the knee where no hard
components may be placed due to possible
discomfort or injury.
Knee Safety Zone Area dimensions:

Size
Newborn
Infant (3m, 6m, 9m,
18m, 24m)
Toddler (2T-5T)
Childrens (4-6X/7)
Knee Safety Zone Rectangle

Area
3.5 L x 3 W
3.5 L x 3.5 W
5 L x 4 W
Image 1
3. Buttons
Requirements:
Must be attached by lockstitch; not by hand
or another type of machine stitch.
Must be attached using spun poly thread.
Sizes 0-5T:
Fabric buttons not permitted.
Two-piece buttons not permitted
4. Hook and Loop Closures (Velcro)

Requirements
Must be attached by lockstitch.
Only loop side (fuzzy side) may come in
contact with skin.
Corners must not be sharp when tested (as
described in II General Requirements
Section 2. Sharp Points and Sharp Edges),

and must have rounded edges.
Lowest profile (lowest pile height) fastener
that fulfills purpose must be used in order to
minimize abrasiveness.
16
5. Toggles
Requirements
May be used on all sizes.
May only be used on drawstrings, ties and or
cords (functional or not), with no free ends.
A loop may be used to attach a toggle button
from one side of a garment to the other,
provided the loop is no more than 3 inches in
length.
(See Image 1 circumference of circle (in
red shown) must not exceed 3 inches.
Image 1
Decorative cord locks

May be used on all sizes provided:
The cord must be securely attached to the
garment.
Elastic cords are permitted only for sizes
over 12 months.
Must be securely contained within the loop
and not removable.
Cord and toggle must sit flush to the
garment. (See examples: image 1 pig-nose
toggle and image 2 cord lock.)
Image 2
Image 3
Cord must be bartacked no more than 3/8

inch from its point of exit.
Functional Cord Locks

May only be used on sizes 2T and up provided:
Cord is securely attached to the garment
with a bartack to eliminate the cord being
removed from the garment.
The circumference of the loop formed by the
lock must not be longer than 3 inches when
the garment is cinched to the body.
The cord must fully retract when the channel
is extended.
Must be securely contained within the loop to
prevent removal.
Must not be at knees, elbows, or other
places where possible injury or discomfort
exists.
Must not be attached to a continuous
drawstring.
Not permitted in the hood or neck area.
6. Other Hardware (Snaps, Grommets, Hasp, Sliders, D-Rings, Hook and

Eye, Metal Hardware)
Requirements
Some hardware may require fabric backing
to pass tension test.
Must not be attached by hand.
o Exception - hook and eye closures.
Must be attached using approved machinery.
Must withstand washing and drying using
suggested care instructions with no
degradation.
Hasps, Sliders and D-Rings (Looped

Hardware)
Required to be welded closed (to prevent
possible detachment).
o Exception - Twist Loop Hardware
from Mississippi Trading, Inc.
Must be attached close enough to the
garment to prevent any entrapment.
Press Fasteners
If made of plastic must be pre-applied to a
twill tape and then applied to a garment.
Buckles and D-Rings

Not permitted at the free end of any ties and
or belts on sizes 0-24 months.
17
VI. Miscellaneous________________________________
1. Bibs
Requirements
Free ends are not permitted in the head
and or neck area.
Must not contain PVC in any area of the
bib.
2. Fake (Faux) Fur

Requirements
Maximum pile length for childrens clothing:
o 0-24 month - inch
o Other sizes 2 inch maximum
0-24 months no visual evidence of

shedding.
Must be securely attached so fur cannot be
pulled out easily.
3. Footed Garments
Requirements
All footed garments, mittens and gloves with
embroidery in the toe, foot or finger and or
hand area must have a second layer of fabric
sewn into the garment to cover the
embroidery.
4. Hats and Caps

Requirements
Chinstraps
Permitted provided they are not continuous.
Must not be longer
than 8 inches.
Must not have knots,
toggles or
ornamentation of any
type on the loose
ends.
Ears - no catch points,
Image 1
must be reviewed on a
case by case basis.
Pompoms, Tassels or other

Decorations
Not permitted on the crown
of hat or cap with individual
ties or loose hanging
chinstrap.
Image 2
o If no loose hanging
chinstraps or individual ties, decorations
are permitted on the crown.
18
5. Feathers (any type) and Natural Fur
Not permitted on any size childrens clothing.
6. Neck Ties
Requirements
For sizes 0-5T, all neck ties must be faux
in design and include a break-away
feature.
Break-away feature must break away at
a maximum of 15 lbs.
7. Scarves
Traditional Scarves
Traditional scarves must be
designed, labeled and
marketed only for children 4
years of age and older. (see
Image 1)
For ages 4-7, the maximum
length of scarf including
fringes, etc., is 36 inches.
For ages 8+, maximum
Image 1
length of scarf including
fringes, etc., is 39 inches.
Pompoms cannot be located on the ends.
Infinity Scarves
Infinity scarves must be designed, labeled
and marketed for children sizes 4-8 only
(see Image 2)
Image 2
8. Sleeve Tab
Requirements
0-24 months must be non-functional (stitched
down to garment interior, excluding the
extension for the closure).
Functional tabs acceptable for sizes 2T-16
o When buttoned, the loop created by
the tab and garment must not exceed
3 inches in total circumference.
o When unbuttoned and hanging loose,
the tab cannot extend below the
bottom edge of the sleeve or pant
leg.
Image 1
19
9. Swim Short and Shorts Liners

Requirements
Must be constructed of micromesh fabric,
with a minimum of 15 wales x 15 courses per
inch.
10. Toxicity, Skin Irritants and Gel Filled Products

Requirements
Must comply with applicable sections of

American Society for Testing Materials
(ASTM) F963 and Consumer Product Safety
Improvement Act (CPSIA).
Must pass microbiological test and not

contain petroleum distillates (CFR Title 16,
Part 1500.231).
Third party certification is required showing
any liquid used in a garment is non-toxic. No
skin irritants of any type may be left on the
product.
VII. Zippers____________________________________
1. Safety Requirements
Zipper Guard
All sizes Zipper guards must be used on
metal zippers that are intended to come in
direct contact with the skin
0-9 months zipper guard required on all
SleepnPlay (SNP). (Image 1)
Upper Body Garments

Sizes 0-3T Zipper pull holes must have
dimensions of at least 6 millimeters across at
its widest point and 4 millimeters across at its
longest point. Holes must be elliptical in
shape (one dimension greater than the
other) to avoid finger entrapment issues.
(Image 2)
Image 1
Sleepwear
Sizes 0-5T zipper pulls must be solid (no
holes).
Plastic zipper only.
Image 2
20
Ring Pulls
0-5T not permitted.
Sizes 4 and above permitted as long as
diameter inside ring is no larger than 1 inch
maximum.
Sleepwear not permitted on any size.
Tabs
Sizes 0-5T tab covering zipper slider and
pull required at top front neck for SNP and
one piece sleepers. (Image 3)
Image 3
All zippers are subject to additional

applicable testing as defined in testing
protocols (see Quality Manual).
Must be sourced as a complete unit (Zipper,
Stops, and Slider).
Must have Fully Autolock or Semi-Autolock
sliders.
Top and bottom stops are required for all

zippers.
Coil Zippers are required to have plastic
stops.
Invisible or concealed zippers are permitted
to be used for back closure only.
o They are not permitted on sizes 0-5T for
Wal-Mart or Sams Club garments.
3. Decorative Pulls
Fabric pulls must be

secured through the
eye of the zipper pull
with a bartack and
tacked down in the
center. Maximum 1
inch length.
All pulls must be 1 ply
or 2 plies sewn
together with no loop
formed. (No looped
pulls may be used.)
Image 1
Filled pulls for sizes 05T are not permitted. For sizes 4 and above
they must be sewn down on all sides.
Elastic Decorative Pulls or Tabs

Not permitted on girls sizes below 7; boys
sizes below 8.
Permitted on girls 7-16 and boys 8-18 with a
maximum 1 inch length in relaxed state.
Decorative Fabric, Plastic and Rubber Pulls

Not permitted on sizes 0-5T.
Permitted on sizes 4 and above with a
maximum length of 2 inches. (see table
below for exact lengths)
Placement of
0-9 Months
Decorative Fabric Pulls (max length)
Pockets
2
Center Front Plackets
1.5
Sleeve Panel, Cuff
not
Opening of Shirt or
permitted
Jacket
Leg Panel, Bottom Hem
not
of Skirt,Skort,Short,Pant permitted
> 9 Months
(max length)
2
1.5
1
For China
Market
Zip pulls,
including any
embellishme
nt, must not
hang below
Correct
Incorrect
the bottom
hem of garments designed to finish at the
ankle.
21
VIII. Best Practices_______________________________
Recommendations which will minimize safety

issues and concerns:
Infant and Toddler:
The use of glitter is not permitted for infants
The use of riveted studs and rhinestones
(image 2)
The use of coated faux sequins/ studs/
rhinestones. (image 3 & 4)
The use of embroidery in place of
rhinestones. (image 5)
All sizes:
The use of non-graspable heat transfer
sequins is recommended in place of lock
stitch sequins.
Image 4
Faux Rhinestones
Image 1 collars down

Toddler on left
Childrens on right
Image 2 collars up
Toddler on left
Childrens on right
Image 3
Faux Sequins
Image 5
Embroidery left
Rhinestones right
22

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Confidential | Proprietary | Effective 2015 | V.1

Small Parts (Tension Test, Graspable Definition)

II. Belts ...................................................................................................................................................................... 5

IV. Embellishments .................................................................................................................................................. 9

VI. Miscellaneous ................................................................................................................................................... 18

VII. Zippers .............................................................................................................................................................. 20

VIII. Best Practices .................................................................................................................................................. 23

Carters Childrens Safe Product Requirements| V.1 | Issued: 04/10/2015

References: Graspable (Definition)

Brand Standards Chart

20.2 lbs. for 10

2. Sharp Points and Sharp Edges

How it is measured: A potential sharp point is

How it is measured: A piece of tape is wrapped

Carters Childrens Safe Product Requirements| V.1 | Issued: 04/10/2015

substances may be added with or without prior

Please refer to the

When the belt is pulled to the intended size

All Sizes over 24 months

Belts with Buckles

Carters Childrens Safe Product Requirements| V.1 | Issued: 04/10/2015

Belts on Childrens Bathrobes

All sizes must be securely and permanently

Non-functional (Decorative) Drawstring, Cord

Carters Childrens Safe Product Requirements| V.1 | Issued: 04/10/2015

Elastic Cord or Tie

Halter Neck Cord or Tie

2. General Requirements (when permitted)

Cannot emerge from the back of the

With a bartack on the outside of a sleeve.

All drawstrings, functional cords and

Toggles and knots

Carters Childrens Safe Product Requirements| V.1 | Issued: 04/10/2015

3. Functional Drawstrings, Ties and Cords

Measurement is taken from point of attachment.

Can be no longer than the maximum length listed below.

Waist Area (Tops)

Waist Area (Bottoms)

Ties and Cords tops with

Ties and Cords

4. Non-Functional (Decorative) Drawstrings, Ties and Cords

Measurement is taken from point of attachment.

Can be no longer than the maximum length listed below.

Waist Area (Tops)

Waist Area (Bottoms)

Ties and Cords tops with

Hem below the waist

At Sleeves above the

At Sleeves below the

Carters Childrens Safe Product Requirements| V.1 | Issued: 04/10/2015

Maximum length of the rouching drawstring

0-5T - Not permitted on any size or

4 and above 3 inches maximum.

The use of glitter as an embellishment is not permitted in infant sizes.

2. Applied Lace or Eyelet

Carters Childrens Safe Product Requirements| V.1 | Issued: 04/10/2015

Rows and Clusters Attachment (image 1)

Glass, Metal or Wood

Caviar Bead Transfer, (Image 2)

End must be secured with a heat seal, laser

Wal-Mart and Sams Requirements:

Confidential | Proprietary | Effective 2015 | V.1

5. Decorative Trims and Tapes