Using Trademarks and Brand Names
Only use a trademarked name if you’re talking about a specific product.
Sometimes, brand names become so common that people use them for all similar products. For example, people often say “Kleenex” when they mean “tissue.” But it’s better to use the general term.
Common Brand Names and Better Alternatives
| Trademarked Name | Use Instead |
|---|---|
| Band-Aid | adhesive bandage, bandage |
| Bubble Wrap | packaging bubbles |
| Chapstick | lip balm |
| Crayola | crayons |
| Dumpster | waste container, trash container |
| Hi-Liter | highlighting marker |
| iPod | MP3 player |
| Kleenex | tissue |
| Plexiglas | plastic glass |
| Post-it note | adhesive note |
| Q-Tips | cotton swabs |
| Scotch tape | transparent tape |
| Styrofoam | plastic foam |
| Taser | stun gun |
| Xerox | photocopy, copy |
Writing Guidelines
- The government should not promote or appear to promote any brand or product.
- If you need to mention a product, list several brands instead of just one.
Example:
Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube can help you connect with users.
- Don’t link to products or services. It can look like an endorsement.
- Do link to helpful resources, like guides or slide decks, even if they’re from private companies or individuals.
- If you use a trademarked name, capitalize and punctuate it the way the company does.
