Back To School Shopping: Check Garment Labels for Quality, Comfort and Durability

As families prepare to shop for the reopening of schools, many are looking to purchase school uniforms and other clothing that offer the best value for money. To help consumers make informed purchasing decisions, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) reminds consumers to pay keen attention to garment labels before making a purchase.
GNBS monitors garments sold in Guyana, whether locally manufactured or imported, to ensure they comply with the national standard, GYS 9-15:2003 – Specification for Labelling of Garments. Garments are among the 17 categories of products monitored by GNBS inspectors at ports of entry, warehouses and retail outlets to verify compliance with national standards.
The standard applies to a wide range of clothing, including school uniforms, shirts, T-shirts, jerseys, blouses, skirts, pants, shorts, dresses, swimwear, and other garments. It requires labels to be clear, legible, properly grouped, and to display measurements in metric units.
These labelling requirements help consumers make informed purchasing decisions by providing accurate information about the garment’s size, composition, care requirements, and origin.
When shopping for school uniforms and other clothing, consumers should also follow these practical tips:
• Check that all labels are written in English and are easy to read.
• Review the care instructions to help maintain the garment’s quality and extend its lifespan.
• Check the size, manufacturer’s details and country of origin
• Examine the fabric and stitching, as these can be useful indicators of comfort and durability.
• Purchase from reputable brands and retailers, as established brands often provide greater assurance of quality.
• Always collect and keep your receipt, as it serves as proof of purchase should you need to seek redress.
By paying close attention to garment labels and selecting quality clothing, parents can make better purchasing decisions, avoid unnecessary replacement costs, and ensure that school uniforms remain comfortable, durable, and suitable throughout the academic year.