GB 18401 Textile Testing
Intertek has been accredited by the China National Accreditation Service for Conformity Assessment (CNAS) and China Metrology Accreditation (CMA) to give you confidence in the testing of your textile products according to the National Safety Regulation GB 18401.
The GB 18401 safety technical code specifies the basic safety practical requirement, test methods, test rule as well as execution and supervision to textile products. The other requirements on textile products are according to the relevant standards. It applies to the textile products which are produced, sold, and used in China. For instance, Apparel and Decorative Textiles are a good example of this. The products for export may be executed in accordance with contract agreements.
The textile products are classified into three categories:
Category A: Products for babies (e.g., nightgowns, bedding, bib, etc.)
Category B: Products with direct contact to skin (e.g., bra, shirt, socks, etc.)
Category C: Products without direct contact to skin (e.g., sweater, curtain, filling material, etc.)
For other unlisted products, the categorization will depend upon their end use. 
(a) pH values can be only extended to the range of 4.5 to 10.5 when the products should be again treated in wet during the subsequent process.
(b) Not applicable to product that requires color fading effect during subsequent wet processing.
(c) List of banned carcinogenic aromatic amine released under reducing conditions is given in Annex C in Technical code - GB 18401-2003
Since the technical code applies to a variety of textile products, different types of manufacturers will have their own quality management systems. The following is the test rule for random inspection:
Representative samples shall be randomly taken from every batch based on types and colors. One sample is individually taken in each type and each color.
Fabric sample shall be taken at least 2m from the ends, and shall not fall within 0.5m from the selvedges. The sample number of garments shall meet the test requirements.
The selected samples shall be kept sealed without being handled.
Samples shall be evaluated per the technical requirements in the product category. For the product batch/color to be acceptable, every component shall meet all of the relevant legal requirements.
Request more information to see how Intertek can help your organization with GB 18401 Textile Testing.