Apparel Bulletins


Friday, November 28, 2014

The NCA’s Garment Analysis Laboratory examines thousands of garments every year for serviceability and FTC care labeling accuracy.   The featured garment is a recurring item received for evaluation.  We have included the name or trade name of the fabric, the manufacturer, the RN number, if available, and a brief description of the problem.  For more information on problem garments, visit our website –
www.nca-i.com

To down load an NCA “Request for Garment Analysis ” form,
click here.

 

Description of Garment:   Beige Raincoat 

Manufacturer:   Brooks Brothers 

RN#:   Not available  


Care Label Instructions:   “Dryclean Only”  

Problem:   This fabric contains a polyester face fabric that is “foam bonded” to a tricot backing.  When this raincoat was drycleaned in perchloroethylene, the adhesive binder dissolved and subsequently migrated onto the surface of the fabric, causing discolorations that cannot be corrected.   

Responsibility:
   The manufacturer’s. The adhesive binder became soluble in standard drycleaning solvent (perchloroethylene) and was affected by the temperatures generated during the reclamation cycle.   

Drycleaner:
   Explain to the customer that there may be potential serviceability issues concerning this raincoat. Because of this, a signed release of liability should be obtained prior to its acceptance for processing. While we have no data as to the serviceability of this raincoat in alternative solvents, the adhesive binders used in  “foam bonded” fabrics often fail from the temperatures generated during the reclamation cycle in any solvent type. 

Recommendation:
    If this raincoat proves to be unserviceable when processed in accordance with it’s care label instructions, it should be returned to the place of purchase for a refund or exchange.

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 without the prior written consent of The National Cleaners Association.

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