Label Literacy: Understanding the Symbols and Meanings on Your Clothes

1. WWW.PRECIOUSLABELS.CO.NZ

2. LABEL LITERACY: UNDERSTANDING THE SYMBOLS AND MEANINGS ON YOUR CLOTHES Understanding the symbols on clothing labels is essential for maintaining the quality and longevity of your garments. These symbols provide specific instructions on how to care for each item, ensuring they remain in optimal condition. In New Zealand, the Consumer Information Standards (Care Labelling) Regulations 2000 mandate that new clothing and household textiles carry appropriate care labels. • Washing Instructions • The washing symbol resembles a washtub. A number inside indicates the maximum temperature (in degrees Celsius) for washing. For instance, '30' denotes 30°C. A hand symbol signifies hand washing only. Bars beneath the washtub suggest the level of agitation: • No bar: Normal agitation • One bar: Reduced agitation • Two bars: Very gentle handling • A crossed-out washtub means the garment should not be washed under normal household conditions.

3. Bleaching Guidelines • A triangle symbol indicates bleaching instructions: • Empty triangle: Any bleach is allowed • Triangle with two lines: Only non-chlorine bleach is safe • Crossed-out triangle: Do not bleach • Adhering to these symbols helps prevent fabric discoloration and damage. • Drying Instructions • Drying symbols are depicted as a square, sometimes with a circle inside: • Square with a circle: Tumble drying allowed • Dots inside the circle indicate heat levels: • One dot: Low temperature • Two dots: Medium temperature • Three dots: High temperature • A crossed-out symbol: Do not tumble dry • Additional drying methods include: • Square with a horizontal line: Dry flat • Square with a vertical line: Line dry • Square with three vertical lines: Drip dry • Symbols with shading: Dry in the shade • Following these instructions prevents shrinkage and fabric distortion.

4. Ironing Instructions • The iron symbol provides guidance on ironing temperatures: • One dot: Cool (110°C) • Two dots: Warm (150°C) • Three dots: Hot (200°C) • A crossed out iron indicates that ironing is not recommended. • Dry Cleaning Instructions • A circle symbol pertains to professional cleaning: • Plain circle: Dry clean • Circle with a letter (e.g., 'P' or 'F'): Indicates the type of solvent to be used • Crossed-out circle: Do not dry clean • These symbols guide professional cleaners on the appropriate methods for your garments. • By familiarizing yourself with these clothing label symbols, you can ensure proper garment care, extending their lifespan and maintaining their appearance. Always refer to the care labels before washing, drying, or ironing to keep your clothes looking their best.