What Can “Waterproof” Mean on a Bag?

Under the FTC Guides, waterproof should mean the product keeps water from contact with its contents under normal use during its anticipated life.

Published October 29, 2026 · 3 min read · Topic: Materials, Labels & Claims · Materials & labels

Typical situation

A bag is advertised as “waterproof”, and you want to know what that word should mean.

Main answer · berabags Editorial Team · Selection view

The FTC’s Leather Guides say it is unfair or deceptive to use the term “waterproof” to describe all or part of a product unless the product or material prevents water from contact with its contents under normal conditions of intended use during the anticipated life of the product or material.

What the text says

Section 24.3(a) deals with the term “waterproof”.
The term should be used only if the designated product or material prevents water from contact with its contents under normal conditions of intended use.
This should hold during the anticipated life of the product or material.
The same section covers “dustproof”, “warpproof”, “scuffproof” and “scratchproof”, and the “resistant” versions.
The Guides apply to bags, suitcases, briefcases, wallets and similar articles.

What this means when you shop

Treat “waterproof” as a strong claim.
Look for how the claim is supported, such as a material, coating or construction.
Check the seams and closures.
Compare it with “water-resistant”, which is a weaker term.

What “normal use” means

A bag used in the rain on the way to work is in a different situation from one dropped in a river. The Guides refer to normal conditions of intended use, so a claim does not promise protection in any circumstances.

What to do before you buy

Read the full product description and the care notes. If a bag says waterproof, look for the same word in the technical details, not only in the title. If a review says that water got in, read it with care, because it may show how the claim holds up for real use, and one comment is not proof either way.

Where this answer stops

The Guides do not set a test, and this article cannot say whether a given bag is waterproof. It is not legal advice.

Sources and further reading

Three more perspectives

berabags Editorial Team · Selection view

Look at the seams, the zip and the opening. A fabric that keeps water out is of little use if the closure lets it in.

berabags Editorial Team · Purchasing view

Read the exact wording. “Water-resistant” and “waterproof” are not the same claim, and a listing that uses both loosely deserves a question.

berabags Editorial Team · Use view

If your belongings need protection, use an inner waterproof pouch for the important items. It is a cheap precaution whatever the label says.

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