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56012200
WADDING, FELT AND NONWOVENS; SPECIAL YARNS; TWINE, CORDAGE, ROPES AND CABLES AND ARTICLES THEREOFWadding of textile materials and articles thereof; textile fibres, not exceeding 5 mm in length (flock), textile dust and mill neps

Of man-made fibres

Classification scope and product characteristics

CN code 560122 covers wadding of man-made synthetic fibres such as polyester, polypropylene, or polyamide, and articles made from such wadding. These products are widely used in the garment industry as filling for jackets and sleeping bags, in furniture as upholstery materials, and in medical and hygiene applications. Synthetic wadding is valued for its hypoallergenic properties, moisture resistance, mould resistance, and quick-drying characteristics. Classification under this code requires that the fibres be synthetic rather than artificial (e.g. viscose is classified separately). The key classification criterion is the form of the product – wadding must be in loose fibre mass or sheet form, not as yarn or fabric.

EU regulations and importer obligations

Synthetic fibre wadding is subject to the Textile Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011, requiring precise fibre composition labelling. REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 imposes restrictions on chemical substances in textile articles, particularly formaldehyde, azo dyes releasing carcinogenic amines, and PFAS compounds used in waterproofing treatments. Where the synthetic wadding is intended for medical devices, the MDR (EU) 2017/745 applies. For products used as building insulation, the Construction Products Regulation CPR (EU) No 305/2011 may apply. Importers should hold laboratory test documentation confirming compliance with restricted substance limits before placing the product on the EU market.

International trade and customs procedures

Importing synthetic wadding under CN code 560122 requires accurate country of origin determination, as synthetic raw materials are often produced in Asian countries benefiting from GSP preferences. The customs declaration must specify the exact fibre composition with the percentage share of each synthetic fibre type. Synthetic wadding is not subject to phytosanitary or veterinary controls, simplifying the import procedure. Transport should use packaging that protects against moisture and mechanical damage. EU exporters should note potential certification requirements in destination countries, particularly regarding flammability standards for synthetic materials used in furniture and bedding products.

Synthetic fibre wadding CN 5601 22 in EU trade

CN code 5601 22 covers wadding of synthetic fibres (e.g. polyester) and articles thereof. Synthetic wadding is widely used as filling for jackets, blankets, pillows and sleeping bags. When importing, wadding (loose fibres) must be distinguished from nonwovens (CN 5603), as the method of fibre bonding determines classification. Synthetic wadding is also subject to textile flammability regulations.

Frequently asked questions

How to distinguish code 560122 from 560121 when classifying wadding?
The decisive criterion is the fibre type. Code 560121 covers cotton wadding (natural fibre), while 560122 applies to wadding of man-made synthetic fibres such as polyester or polypropylene. For fibre blends, the predominant fibre by weight determines the classification. Composition must be confirmed through laboratory testing using the methods prescribed in Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011.
Is polyester wadding for filling subject to flammability requirements?
The EU does not have a single regulation on the flammability of filling materials. However, polyester wadding used in upholstered furniture, mattresses, and bedding may be subject to national flammability regulations in certain Member States. Importers should verify national requirements in the country of intended sale before placing the product on the market.
Which chemical substances are restricted in synthetic wadding?
REACH restricts in textile articles formaldehyde, azo dyes releasing carcinogenic amines listed in Annex XVII entry 43, PFAS compounds used in waterproofing, and heavy metals among others. Synthetic wadding must comply with these limits, which is confirmed through laboratory testing before placing the product on the EU market.
How to distinguish synthetic wadding CN 5601 22 from nonwovens CN 5603?
Wadding CN 5601 22 consists of loose fibres laid in layers, while nonwovens CN 5603 are fibres bonded mechanically, chemically or thermally. The fibre bonding method is the key classification criterion.