HS Code for Fabric softener ingredient

Ingredients for fabric softeners, specifically cationic organic surface-active agents, are classified under HS code 3402.41. Heading 3402 covers organic surface-active agents (other than soap), surface-active preparations, and washing preparations. Fabric softeners primarily rely on cationic surfactants, such as quaternary ammonium compounds or esterquats, which carry a positive charge. This positive charge allows the molecules to adhere to the negatively charged fibers of the fabric, reducing static and providing a soft feel. Subheading 3402.41 is reserved for these cationic agents when they are presented as chemically defined substances or as mixtures not yet put up for retail sale as finished softeners. The classification is strictly based on the chemical nature of the surfactant. According to the Explanatory Notes to Heading 3402, these substances must be capable of reducing the surface tension of water to a specific level to be considered surface-active. This code is essential for chemical manufacturers and distributors who supply the raw materials used by the consumer goods industry to formulate liquid softeners and dryer sheets.

Products Included

• Quaternary ammonium salts (cationic)
• Esterquats used in textile softening
• Cationic surfactants in bulk liquid form
• Imidazolinium compounds for fabric care
• Distearyldimethylammonium chloride

Common Misclassification

These ingredients are often misclassified under 3402.42 (non-ionic) or 3402.49 (other surfactants) if the chemical charge is not properly identified. More importantly, they are frequently confused with 3402.50, which is the code for finished preparations put up for retail sale. If the product is a bottled fabric softener ready for the consumer, it belongs in 3402.50. Additionally, some specialized textile finishing agents might be incorrectly placed in 3809.91, which covers finishing agents used in the textile industry that are not primarily surface-active agents.

FAQ

What is the HS code for cationic fabric softener ingredients?

The specific HS code for cationic organic surface-active agents used as softener ingredients is 3402.41.

Is the finished liquid fabric softener in a bottle under this code?

No, finished fabric softeners packaged for retail sale are classified under HS code 3402.50, as they are considered washing or cleaning preparations rather than raw surface-active agents.