Law for Flame-Resistant Children's Pajamas

Children's pajamas must be flame resistant or fit snugly.

Federal rules require all children's pajamas over size nine to be either flame-resistant or snug-fitting. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) says children shouldn't use loose-fitting cotton clothing, like T-shirts, for sleepwear because they catch fire easily, and contribute to 300 emergency room visits every year.

Sleepwear Defined

When deciding whether an article of clothing is considered "sleepwear", the CPSC looks at the properties of the clothing and whether it's appropriate for sleeping or sleep-related activities. The commission also considers how the clothing is advertised and distributed, and whether children are likely to use it for sleeping. Underwear and diapers are not considered sleepwear.

Flammability

Flame-resistant pajamas are made from material that is naturally resistant to flames or material that's been treated with retardants. It must quickly snuff itself out if it catches on fire from a candle or a match.

Snug-Fitting

If children's pajamas aren't flame-resistant, then they must be snug fitting. Snug-fitting pajamas are made from cotton or from cotton blends. The CPSC requires permanent labels on this kind of sleepwear, warning consumers that the clothing must fit snugly because it's not flame-resistant.

Under Nine Months

Sleepwear for infants younger than nine months old must meet general flammability requirements for clothing, but doesn't have to meet flame-resistance standards of older children's sleepwear, because infants are less likely to come into contact with an open flame.

References

• Consumer Product Safety Alert: New Labels on Children's Sleepwear Alert Parents to Fire Dangers
• U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission: Children's Sleepwear Regulations

Resources

• Consumer Reports: Baby Clothes Guide - Sleepwear