Help and advice

Nightwear can burn quickly if accidentally set alight by contact with a naked flame, gas or electric fire or other heat source. Children and older or disabled people may be particularly at risk of serious injury if this happens. Consequently, various mandatory and voluntary measures have been taken to control the fire performance of the fabrics used in nightwear and to make the public more aware of the dangers.^1,2

The 'Nightwear (Safety) Regulations 1985' state that adults' nightwear and garments commonly worn as nightwear must carry a permanent label showing whether or not they meet the flammability standard. Children's nightdresses and dressing gowns must meet the flammability performance requirements and do not need to carry a label. However, suppliers may choose to label their garments to show they comply with the regulations.^1,2

Adult nightwear which meets the flammability performance requirements must carry a label bearing one of the following: 'Low flammability to BS: 5722' in black letters; or 'Low flammability to BS: 5722' in black letters and 'Keep away from fire' in red letters.^1,2

Nightwear which does not meet the flammability performance requirements must carry a label with the words 'Keep away from fire' in red letters.^1,2

Nightwear which has been treated with flame retardant chemicals must carry the appropriate warning label about washing and suitability of the washing agent.^1,2