The decision to cut back will also include the outsourcing of some production as part of a move to improve its focus on core products and the company's competitive position.

The company based in Westport, Connecticut expects to take charges of $17 million to $19 million by the end of 2005, said Reuters.

The moves come just over a year after Playtex said it would take $4 million in restructuring charges, including costs for an unspecified number of job cuts.

In April 2004, Playtex said it had decided to remain independent after a two-year review to determine whether it should sell all or part of the company. It named a new chief executive officer and chief financial officer in the last few months of 2004.

Playtex said about $11 million of the new charges would be recorded in the fourth quarter of 2004. It forecast savings from the plan of $12 million to $14 million in 2005 and $22 million to $24 million in 2006.

The company's product range includes Mr. Bubble children's bubble bath, Binaca breath fresheners, Tek and Dentax oral care, Dorothy Gray skin careand Wet Ones moist towelettes.