Is It Illegal to Remove Pillow Tags? Here’s the Truth

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If you’ve ever hesitated to snip off that annoying tag on your pillow, you’re not alone. The bold warning—“UNDER PENALTY OF LAW THIS TAG NOT TO BE REMOVED EXCEPT BY THE CONSUMER”—has made many second-guess a quick trim. But don’t worry: removing the tag is perfectly legal if you’re the buyer.

Why the Warning Exists

These tags were originally required to prevent manufacturers from stuffing mattresses and pillows with unsanitary or unknown materials. The law ensures companies disclose what’s inside products before they’re sold, protecting consumers at the point of purchase.

That strict-sounding label? It’s aimed at manufacturers and retailers, not everyday consumers. Once you buy the item, you’re free to remove the tag.

Should You Cut It Off?

While it’s legal, you may want to keep the tag for a few reasons:

• Warranty info – The label may be required for returns or claims.
• Cleaning instructions – Useful for long-term care.
• Resale or donation – Some places prefer original labels for hygiene reasons.

A Few Exceptions

Certain items—especially baby products like car seats and crib mattresses—have safety tags that shouldn’t be removed. Doing so could void warranties or eliminate crucial safety information.

The Bottom Line

You can absolutely cut off your pillow tag without breaking the law. Just make sure you won’t need the info later. Once that’s settled, feel free to snip away that crinkly annoyance.