5516.91.00.40 - Cheesecloth; lawns, voiles or batistes (226)

This classification covers woven fabrics of artificial staple fibers that are unbleached or bleached, and are not specifically classified under more descriptive subheadings within 5516.91. Specifically, this subheading encompasses cheesecloth, lawns, voiles, and batistes. These fabrics are characterized by their fine weave and often lightweight construction, making them suitable for a variety of applications, including apparel, household textiles, and industrial uses where breathability and absorbency are desired.

Distinguishing this category from its siblings is crucial. For instance, while both are unbleached or bleached woven fabrics of artificial staple fibers, this subheading specifically excludes poplin, broadcloth, sheeting, printcloth, duck, satin weave, and twill weave fabrics which have their own distinct HTS classifications. The primary distinction lies in the fabric construction and type: cheesecloth, lawns, voiles, and batistes generally exhibit a more open or delicate weave compared to the tighter constructions of poplin or sheeting, or the heavier weight of duck.

As this is a leaf node, there are no further subdivisions. Therefore, classification into 5516.91.00.40 relies on identifying the fabric as cheesecloth, lawn, voile, or batiste and confirming it is composed of artificial staple fibers, unbleached or bleached, and does not meet the specific criteria for other more narrowly defined classifications within this heading. The presence of these specific fabric types, often identified by their characteristic drape, texture, and weave pattern, is the key determinant for this classification.