Playing By the Rules
Bags
Shopping bags and totes are general use items, but alterations, such as a adding a child-friendly logo, reducing the size, or offering it in a bright color, among other things, could make it a children's product, as is the case with any general use product.
"Occasionally, we'll import custom [children's] bags/backpacks from China. For those types of items, we check to make sure no drawstrings and small parts are used, and they are tested for CPSIA [Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act] compliance," Angela John, director of regulatory compliance and product safety for Sun Coast Merchandise, Commerce, Calif., said, warning that although drawstrings are not regulated on children's bags as they are in apparel, they should be avoided.
Amanda L. Cole is the editor-in-chief of NonProfit PRO. She was formerly editor-in-chief of special projects for NonProfit PRO's sister publication, Promo Marketing. Contact her at acole@napco.com.