The law, briefly

UK law (the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988) requires upholstered furniture — sofas, armchairs, padded headboards, cushioned dining chairs — to meet fire-resistance standards, shown by a permanent label sewn to the item.

What it means on Fern

When you list an upholstered item, we ask whether the label is still attached. Items with the label get listed normally. Items without it receive extra review before going live, and business-like sellers cannot sell them at all — for private sellers the legal position is softer, but buyers deserve to know, so the listing says so clearly.

Where to find the label

Usually under the seat cushion, on the underside of the frame, or along a seam. It says “Carelessness causes fire” or references the 1988 regulations.

Mattresses and beds

Mattresses have their own standard (BS 7177) with a similar label. Bed frames without padding don't need one.