What should I compare when product materials are described in vague terms?

Treat “premium” and “durable” as descriptions, not material specifications. Start with the exact material name and, if provided, its composition—for example, a named fiber and percentage. Check whether the information applies to the whole bag or only a part, such as the lining or exterior.

For covered U.S. textile and wool products, labels generally disclose fiber content, country of origin, and the responsible company. Fiber content uses generic fiber names and percentages by weight; distinct sections made of different fibers may need separate disclosures. These rules do not apply to every product or material. [S1]

For a plastic, metal, or other non-fibrous item, don’t assume textile-label rules tell you what must be disclosed. Look for official material information for that product, and compare like parts with like parts.

No. “Cotton feel” describes an impression; by itself, it does not state that the item is cotton. “100% cotton” is a specific composition claim, but check which product or component it refers to and whether current official product information supports it.

For covered U.S. textile and wool products, a broad hang-tag description may not provide the full fiber content; in applicable cases, the label must make that limitation clear. [S1] Look for fuller fiber details rather than treating a hang-tag phrase as the complete specification.

The overall wording and context also matter: advertising claims can be express or implied, and objective claims should have a reasonable basis before an ad runs. That guidance is not a universal method for consumers to prove composition independently. [S2] If the wording is unclear, ask which component the claim describes and where its full composition is stated.

Ask what the phrase specifically promises and what information supports that promise. “Built to last” alone does not tell you a service life, test method, conditions, or which part of the product the claim covers. Don’t treat it as a measurable guarantee unless one is actually stated.

Record the exact wording, named material or component, any stated test or conditions, and any exceptions. If one listing gives details and another only uses a broad adjective, mark the second “not specified” rather than assuming it performs better or worse. The evidence appropriate for an objective advertising claim depends on the claim; the FTC guidance does not provide a universal way for shoppers to verify performance independently. [S2]

You could ask: “What does ‘built to last’ refer to on this item? Is there a stated test, condition, or limitation, and where can I read it in the current official product information?”

Use a short record that separates stated facts from unanswered questions. For example, for two hypothetical products:

Product A — Official wording: “[exact material wording].” Composition: “[stated percentage or not specified].” Applies to: “[whole item or named component].” Performance claim: “[exact phrase].” Evidence or limit stated: “[brief note or not stated].”

Product B — Official wording: “[exact material wording].” Composition: “[stated percentage or not specified].” Applies to: “[whole item or named component].” Performance claim: “[exact phrase].” Evidence or limit stated: “[brief note or not stated].”

Check that you’re comparing the same version and component, and note where each detail came from, such as a current official label or product page. If the wording conflicts, ask for clarification rather than guessing. This format organizes claims; it does not independently prove them.