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.
The Thobe, a symbol of Arab heritage, combines elegance and functionality. However, its intricate embroidery, delicate fabrics, and cultural significance demand rigorous quality control to preserve authenticity while meeting modern safety standards. As a trusted third-party inspection company, C&Z Quality bridges tradition and compliance, ensuring Thobes align with global benchmarks. Below, we explore common defects, regulatory requirements, and actionable strategies.
Traditional fabrics like cotton, linen, or silk blends are often mislabeled. For example, suppliers may substitute premium Egyptian cotton with cheaper blends, compromising durability. Tarz (embroidery) threads dyed with chemical pigments risk non-compliance if containing restricted substances like azo dyes.
Validate fiber content via FTIR spectroscopy and test dyes for harmful chemicals using HPLC analysis.
Hand-stitched taqseem (necklines) or khatm (hemming) may exhibit weak seams or uneven tension. Machine-made imitations often lack durability, leading to frayed edges or detached embroidery under stress.
Conduct tensile strength tests (ASTM D5034) on seams and audit workshops for traditional stitching techniques.
Metal agals (headbands) or decorative buttons may contain nickel or lead. A 2024 study found 15% of exported Thobes failed EU REACH standards due to excessive cadmium in metallic trims.
Test metal components via XRF analysis and enforce ISO 8124-1 standards for small-part safety.
Mandates color fastness (≥ Grade 4) and fabric shrinkage rates.
Restricts azo dyes, formaldehyde, and heavy metals in textiles.
Limits lead content in accessories for children’s Thobes.
A 2024 Dubai Customs report linked 20% of Thobe rejections to pH imbalances in indigo-dyed collars, highlighting the need for pre-shipment audits.
Partner with certified artisans like Al-Nassaj Textiles, which uses natural henna dyes and hand-embroidered zari patterns.
Validate stitching integrity, dye safety (AATCC 61), and metal compliance using ASTM F963 protocols.
Ensure designs respect regional styles (e.g., Saudi Mishlah vs. Emirati Kandura).
Deep understanding of talli (braiding) and naksha (embroidery) techniques.
Alignment with GSO, EU REACH, and US CPSIA standards.
Balancing modern safety protocols with respect for traditional craftsmanship.