5208.32.40.20 - Poplin or broadcloth (314)

This HTS classification, 5208.32.40.20, specifically designates "Poplin or broadcloth" woven cotton fabrics. These fabrics fall under the broader category of dyed woven cotton fabrics, containing 85% or more cotton by weight, and weighing not more than 200 g/m². They are characterized by a plain weave structure and a weight exceeding 100 g/m².

Poplin and broadcloth are distinguished from their siblings primarily by their weave structure and the resultant fabric hand. While sheeting (5208.32.40.40) often features a simpler, more uniform weave and can be heavier, printcloth (5208.32.40.60) and cheesecloth (5208.32.40.90) typically have a finer weave and are intended for different end-uses, with printcloth often being a base for printed designs and cheesecloth a very open, gauze-like fabric. The "poplin or broadcloth" designation implies a tighter, more compact weave that results in a smooth, crisp finish, making it suitable for apparel and home furnishings where such texture is desired.

As this node is a leaf node within the HTS, there are no further subcategories for this specific classification. Therefore, the focus remains on the precise definition of poplin and broadcloth based on their weaving characteristics and their placement within the overall structure of dyed, plain-weave cotton fabrics. Classification within this code hinges on the fabric's ability to meet the physical and structural criteria that define poplin and broadcloth, as opposed to other similar woven cotton materials.