If you’re in the apparel industry—whether you’re an emerging clothing brand, private label seller, or FBA prep center—chances are you’ve come across California’s Proposition 65 requirements. And if you haven’t yet, you need to. This regulation isn’t optional, and non-compliance could cost your business $2,500 per violation per day.
As someone who has spent years researching and developing Prop 65 labeling solutions, I’ve seen a lot of confusion around sticker labels vs. sew-on labels. Today, I’m going to break down exactly why sew-on woven tags are the most reliable, durable, and professional method to meet Prop 65 requirements for textiles and apparel.
First: Why Prop 65 Labels Matter
Prop 65 requires businesses to warn consumers if their products contain chemicals that can cause cancer, birth defects, or reproductive harm. These chemicals—like Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), lead, cadmium, and nickel—are common in dyes, textiles, trims, coatings, and even imported packaging.
⚠️ What most sellers don’t realize:
Prop 65 does not only apply to California-based companies.
If you are selling or shipping products into California, whether you’re located in another U.S. state or overseas, you are legally required to comply.
And the cost of non-compliance is steep:
You could face fines of up to $2,500 per item per day it’s sold or distributed in violation.
Sticker vs. Sew-On Labels: Which One Actually Complies?
Many sellers default to sticker labels because they’re easy and inexpensive. But here’s the reality:
⚠️ Sticker Labels Are a Liability
- They fall off during transit, warehousing, or handling
- They often do not survive to the end user
- They can disappear during laundering or heat exposure
- They are not considered durable or permanent by enforcement standards
If your warning doesn’t reach the customer, it doesn’t count. Period.
That’s a violation.
Why Sew-On Labels Are the Smart, Safe Solution
As someone who’s helped dozens of sellers upgrade their compliance practices, I always recommend sew-on Prop 65 tags. Here’s why:
✅ Permanent & Reliable
Sew-on labels are physically attached to the garment. They can’t peel off and are nearly impossible to miss.
✅ Wash & Heat Resistant
Unlike stickers, sew-on tags survive laundry cycles, dryers, and even ironing. This ensures the warning stays visible long after purchase.
✅ Compliant Through the Lifecycle
Whether your product is in a store, on Amazon, or secondhand, your label stays intact—protecting your brand from ongoing risk.
✅ Professional Look
Woven sew-on labels signal care, legality, and quality. They blend in seamlessly with your branding while keeping you compliant.
Who Needs Sew-On Prop 65 Labels?
- Amazon/FBA Sellers
- Private Label Apparel Brands
- FBA Prep Centers
- Custom Fashion Houses & Etsy Shops
- Wholesale Distributors
- Drop Shippers and DTC Brands
- Small Brands and Boutique Shops
If you can’t guarantee that a sticker will stay on every item shipped into California, you need a sew-on solution.
A Small Tag. A Big Difference.
We offer ready-to-use 1″ x 1.5″ woven fabric tags printed with the required Prop 65 warning. They’re affordable, durable, and designed to meet enforcement expectations. Our bulk packs (100 or 500 units) are optimized for ease of integration—whether you’re using them in a studio, factory, or fulfillment warehouse.
Prop 65 compliance is not a suggestion.
It’s a legal requirement with real financial consequences—$2,500 per violation per day.
And it’s not just a California problem.
It applies to anyone selling or shipping products into California, no matter where you’re located.
Sticker labels just don’t offer the same protection.
Sew-on Prop 65 labels are the professional, permanent, and proven way to stay compliant—without risking your business, your brand, or your bottom line.
Protect your customers. Protect your company. Sew it on.
Lee Label Inc 