Industry Tip: pH Affects the Quality of Textile Fur Accessories

With the continuous rise in living standards and consumer demand, fur accessories are becoming more common in everyday clothing. No longer limited to high-end fashion, they are now frequently found on casual garments. According to GB/T 18401-2003, "National Basic Safety Technical Specification for Textile Products," fur is classified as Category C textiles—those that do not come into direct contact with the skin. The acceptable pH range for Category C textiles is between 4.0 and 9.0. However, during routine testing, fur accessories often show a highly acidic pH, typically ranging from 2.5 to 3.5, which falls below the minimum standard of 4.0, leading to non-compliance. During the dyeing and finishing process, various acid and alkali treatments are applied to textiles, resulting in some degree of pH variation. While this is normal, the pH level of a textile can significantly affect the skin. Human skin has a natural pH range of 5.5 to 6.5, slightly acidic, as it is influenced by sweat and sebum. If the pH of a textile differs greatly from this natural balance, it may cause irritation or even lead to skin conditions. This is especially true for fur accessories, which are often in close contact with the skin. An overly acidic pH can irritate the skin and increase the risk of bacterial infections. Given that garments with fur accents tend to have higher export values compared to regular textiles, any product failing pH tests could result in recalls, financial losses, and damage to China's reputation in the global market. To prevent such issues, inspection and quarantine authorities advise textile manufacturers to pay closer attention to the ecological safety of fur products. They should enhance monitoring of pH levels and consider regular inspections with relevant authorities to ensure compliance and avoid potential problems. By doing so, companies can maintain quality standards and protect their market position.