In the garment industry, whether you are a manufacturer, importer, or brand, you must understand the importance of quality control in this business. This industry shifts swiftly, and any time lost in shipment or defect fixings can lead to unimaginable losses. Moreover, quality issues can quickly disseminate in the digital age, giving competitors an advantage. Therefore, quality control is essential, and quality inspection is the most commonly used method. In this post, we will guide you through the steps of a garment quality inspection, the key checkpoints to focus on, and how can C&Z expertise support your garment quality control.
Underwire bras are a cornerstone of lingerie collections, offering structure and support. However, their intricate design—featuring metal or plastic wires, blended fabrics, and reinforced stitching—requires rigorous quality control to meet safety and regulatory standards. As a trusted third-party inspection company, C&Z Quality identifies compliance gaps and ensures products align with global benchmarks. Below, we explore common defects, testing protocols, and actionable strategies for manufacturers and suppliers.
Underwire breakage or protrusion is a recurring safety hazard. Customer reviews for brands like M&S reveal complaints about wires piercing through fabric after minimal wear. Research shows that low-grade metal alloys or poorly secured wire casings degrade faster under stress, particularly in high-impact bras.
Conduct tension and fatigue tests on underwires using ASTM D5034 protocols to simulate long-term wear cycles.
Blended fabrics (e.g., nylon-spandex or polyester-cotton) often mislabel fiber ratios. For example, DHgate listings advertise 90% cotton + 10% elastane blends but lack third-party verification, risking non-compliance with labeling regulations. Multi-layered designs with lace overlays or padded cups are prone to discrepancies.
Validate fiber content via FTIR spectroscopy and audit suppliers for ISO 9001-certified material sourcing.
Dyed fabrics, adhesives, or metal coatings may contain phthalates, nickel, or formaldehyde. A 2024 QIMA study found 14% of underwire bras failed EU REACH standards due to nickel release exceeding 0.5 µg/cm²/week.
Test metal components for nickel migration and fabrics for pH balance (5.5–7.0) to ensure skin safety.
Prohibits sharp edges in underwire casings and mandates choke hazard checks for decorative elements.
Limits lead content in metal wires and requires flammability testing for padded designs.
Enforces color fastness (≥ Level 4) and mechanical safety for underwire retention.
A 2024 EU customs analysis linked 18% of underwire bra rejections to non-compliant nickel levels, highlighting the need for pre-shipment chemical audits.
Partner with certified manufacturers like Hanna Import & Export Trade Co., Ltd., which offers Prop 65-compliant wires and reinforced stitching techniques.
Validate wire security, seam strength, and color fastness using AATCC 61 (wash durability) and ASTM D1683 (seam slippage) protocols.
Analyze returns data (e.g., “wire poking” complaints) to prioritize high-risk areas like wire casings or side seams.
Advanced simulations for corrosion resistance, fatigue testing, and stress distribution analysis.
Alignment with EU REACH, US CPSIA, and China GB 31701 standards.
Predictive analytics to address recurring defects, such as adhesive failure in humid conditions.