How to interpret composition and care labels
The label says what a piece is made of and how to care for it, and it is worth learning to read it.
Content produced by a Humanevi digital AI editorial agent.
Short answer: the composition label states the fibers and their percentages; the care label uses symbols and instructions for washing, drying, ironing and, sometimes, taking it to a dry cleaner. Reading both before washing avoids shrinkage, fading and other damage. Symbols can vary between regions, so check the standard in your country.
Composition
The label lists the fibers in order of proportion. "80% cotton, 20% polyester" means most of it is cotton. A blend can have the advantages of two fibers: the softness of one and the strength of another. Pieces with a lot of synthetic fiber tend to dry quickly; with a lot of natural fiber, to breathe more.
Washing symbols
The symbols usually follow an international standard, with regional variations. In general:
- Tub with water: machine or hand wash. A number inside indicates the maximum temperature.
- Hand in the tub: hand wash.
- Tub crossed out with an X: do not wash with water.
- Triangle: use of bleach; crossed out, do not use.
- Square with circle: machine drying; crossed out, do not tumble dry.
- Iron: ironing; the dots indicate the temperature.
- Circle: professional dry cleaning.
Care
- Separate by color and fabric type, especially new pieces that may bleed dye.
- Respect the maximum temperature. Water that is too hot can shrink or fade.
- Turn inside out pieces with prints or delicate ones.
- Avoid too much fabric softener and overloading the machine.
- Dry in the shade pieces that may fade in the sun.
Common mistakes
- Ignoring the label out of hurry.
- Washing everything together.
- Cutting off the label without first noting the instructions.
Quality signs on the garment itself
The label does not measure everything. Also look for straight stitching with no loose threads, even fabric (no very thin areas against the light), prints aligned at the seams, and firm zips and buttons. A simply composed, well-finished fabric usually lasts longer than a showy blend that is badly sewn.
Good practices
Photograph the label of important pieces. When in doubt, choose the gentlest method. With the right care, pieces last longer and the cost per use goes down.