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FAQ Sterilization of Natural Fillings for Bedding and Jackets

Download FAQ Sterilization of Natural Fillings for Bedding and Jackets

What is Sterilization?

The sterilization process ensures down and feather, animal hair, and wool are safe for consumer use. During sterilization, all dangerous organisms are destroyed by using high pressure/high temperature steam, or other approved methods. The World Health Organization (WHO) and other organizations have published statements and scientific papers showing the viruses and bacteria are inactivated at high temperatures in the range of 60-70° C.

What is the difference between sanitization and sterilization?

Sanitization, along with disinfection and pasteurization, reduces living organisms rather than eliminating them like sterilization does.

Who needs it and Why?

Sterilization is required for filling material sold in Europe and North America. Currently, all down and feather processing factories sterilize ALL down and feather material regardless of final destination. This insures that the global supply down and feather material is safe and clean.

What is a USA Sterilization Permit?

A sterilization permit certifies that material is safe for consumer use. Every sterilization facility must have its own Sterilization Permit Number (PER. NO.).

When is a Sterilization Permit required in the USA?

The Sterilization Permit (PER. NO.) is required if your products are sold on-line anywhere in the USA or are sold in stores in the following states:

• Connecticut (CT)
• Massachusetts (MA)
• Michigan (MI), Detroit
• Pennsylvania (PA)
• Rhode Island (RI)
• Utah (UT)

States that require a Sterilization Permit:

Bedding and/or Upholstered Furniture

The PER. NO. must appear on the USA Law Label.

• Connecticut (CT)
• Massachusetts (MA)
• Michigan (MI), Detroit)
• Pennsylvania (OA)
• Rhode Island (RI)
• Utah (UT)

Quilted Clothing/Apparel

The PER. NO. must appear on the textile label attached to the garment.

• Utah (UT)

What details about Utah Sterilization Permits do I need to know?

Among the states that require sterilization (PER. NO.) Utah is unique. In 2017, Utah became the first and only state to require a sterilization permit for quilted clothing (filling) and apparel. This permit number must now appear on apparel labels as well as bedding, sleeping bags & upholstery Uniform Law Labels.

How do I apply?

1. Request application and inspection from IDFL.
2. Fill out an application form.
3. IDFL Sends notice to the state and will check if a site inspection is required.
4. If a site inspection is required, IDFL will send an inspector to the sterilization facility.
5. After the completion of the successful site inspection, the IDFL inspector must submit the inspection report and application package to the state for review.
6. The state issues permit upon review and payment.

Other Frequently Asked Questions:

• Where on the quilted clothing/apparel label is the sterilization number found?
  • There are not specific requirements as to the placement of the sterilization number, as long as it is clear and visible.
• Is the label supposed to be made out of specific material?
  • Use the type of label that your brand already uses, there are no special/specific requirements.
• Will the sterilization number that I receive from one down suppler work for all of my down suppliers and garments?
  • No. You must obtain a sterilization number for each supplier/each facility. The number applies to the sterilized down that is inside that particular garment.
• For the state of Utah, is there a “leniency” period after December 31, 2021 to print the sterilization number on the jacket label?
  • No. Jackets and other outerwear or apparel must have the sterilization number on the labels no later than December 31, 2021.
• Will anyone from the state of Utah be checking for the new PER. NO. label requirement?
  • Yes. Officials will check labels on garments sold in stores and on-line.
• Will the Utah PER. NO. on garments policy expand nationally and/or internationally?
  • The bedding industry has always had these sterilization requirements. It is likely that quilted/filled garments would follow suit.
• How does this affect on-line sales?
  • Same rules apply. If the garment is sold on-line in the USA it can be purchased by Utah customers – therefore all products sold on-line in the USA must have a sterilization permit number.
• What about other countries? Do they have the same sterilization rules?
  • Sterilization is required throughout USA, Asia and Europe with varying standards.

Download FAQ Sterilization of Natural Fillings for Bedding and Jackets