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Other Symbols You May See

Fashion is a global business and our clothes can come from virtually anywhere in the world. The symbols used in the UK are also used across Europe.

In the USA the symbols are similar but not the same. Details of their labelling system are available below.

If you find any other care symbols you don't recognise contact us and we should be able to tell you what they mean.

America

THE SYMBOLS APPROVED FOR THE USE IN THE U.S. ARE THE ASTM SYMBOLS. The ASTM symbols are accepted in most of Europe and Asia. At present negotiations are underway to harmonize the major two systems. ASTM and GINETEX, into a truly universal symbols system for care procedures.

Click here to download a portable document file (PDF) illustrating the ASTM chart

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This chart illustrates the care symbols accepted by the American Federal Trade commission as part of a conditional exemption to the FTC Care Labelling Rule (16 (FR 423). The above chart is referenced from ASTM D5489-96c.

The ASTM chart illustrates the symbols used for laundering and dry cleaning instructions. As a minimum, laundering instructions shall include, in order four symbols; washing, bleaching, drying and ironing; and dry cleaning instructions shall include one symbol. Additional symbols or words may be used to clarify the instructions.

Other Labelling Information:

There are four main aspects to the labeling of clothing of which you should be aware.

	Care labeling, the inclusion of washing instructions is not mandatory in the UK, however, it is strongly encouraged. We would always recommend the use of GINETEX symbols- the system used throughout Europe. (Please refer to our home page for further information on the symbols and their meaning.)
	Fibre content labeling in clothing is mandatory as laid down in the 1986 Fibre Content Labelling of Textiles Regulations. The basis of these Regulations is that the label must include information on the main fibre types used and their percentages- for example wool 80%, cotton 20%.
	Country of origin labeling is, generally speaking, not compulsory. However, it is necessary to have an origin label if without such a label the consumer would be misled as to the true origin of the garment. Example: If a garment carried the British flag on it but it was made in Hong Kong, then the garment should include a label to that effect.
	Finally, nightwear and garments commonly worn as nightwear are subject to certain labeling requirements concerning their flammability. Children’s nightwear must satisfy the flammability program requirements specified in British Standard 5722. Babies’ garments and adults nightwear must carry a permanent label showing whether or not they meet the flammability standard. Further information on this labeling of nightwear is contained in ‘A Guide to the Nightwear (safety) Regulations 1985’ which is available from the Consumer Safety Unit of the Department of Trade and Industry.

If you require further information on fibre content or nightwear regulations, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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