Investigation into school uniforms confirms safety of waterproof layer
By Yuan Hui in Hohhot and Wang Songsong | chinadaily.com.cn | Updated: 2026-01-13 21:06
An investigation into a viral video showing a thin film inside winter school uniforms at a primary school in Inner Mongolia autonomous region has determined the material to be a safe and functional waterproof layer, local authorities announced on Tuesday.
A statement released by the joint task force from Kharchin Banner said that the substance is a fragment of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film, a material compliant with national standards and commonly used in apparel for its breathable, waterproof properties.
The inquiry was launched on Friday after a parent from Jinshan Third Primary School posted a video online expressing concern about the film discovered while mending their child's trousers.
Investigators verified that the school uniform procurement followed regulated procedures, including surveys that showed 98 percent parent approval.
The uniforms, delivered in July 2025, underwent the required "double inspection" upon arrival, with test results confirming they met all relevant national safety standards for children's textiles.
Tests conducted by an accredited laboratory in Beijing on retained samples confirmed the uniforms contain no formaldehyde or carcinogenic dyes, have a neutral pH, and are made of 100 percent polyester fiber.
The film in question was identified as part of a polyester-TPU composite fabric designed for weather protection.
The local government added it would strengthen ongoing school uniform quality checks and improve communication between schools and families to ensure student safety and public trust.
