Kids PJs sold without fire hazard labels

Bargain retailer Crackerjack has been fined for supplying kids nightwear that breached fire hazard and fibre content labelling rules.

The fine follows a Commerce Commission investigation at the Crackerjack Napier store that found 10 nightwear garments with missing or non-compliant fire hazard labels.

The Commission said 2,880 units of nightwear were imported by Crackerjack in April 2022, which included garments without the appropriate fire hazard and textile labels. Up to 266 items were sold to shoppers.

The Commission product safety manager Grant McIntosh said fire hazard labels warn consumers about the risk of clothing catching fire, so it’s vital businesses comply with the rules.

“As we head into winter and parents are trying to keep kids warm in pyjamas and dressing gowns in front of the heater or fire, it is important they know of the risk and suitability of the nightwear they’re buying,” McIntosh said.

Not having clear fire hazard and fibre content labels is a breach of the Fair Trading Act.

What to look for when buying pyjamas

Nightwear and wearable towels and blankets must have a fire hazard label permanently attached and in an obvious place.

The Commission recently warned Davie Clothing, the company that makes Oodies, for selling six styles of wearable towels that didn’t comply with the standard.

When buying nightwear, look for a snug fit so excess fabric doesn’t catch in a heater or fire.

Avoid pyjamas that have the red warning fire label – choose an item with the white label instead.

The Commission says fire safety labels must:

• be on the top and bottoms of a pyjamas set (check the inside back neck of a top or one-piece and the waistband on the pants)
• clearly display the fire hazard and size information
• be permanently fixed to the garments.

While labels say “low fire hazard” there is still some risk, so keep at least a meter away from the fire or heater. If possible, put a safety guard around it.