What is care label & different types care labeling systems?

Care instructions are small solutions to big problems. Care labels provide guidelines to consumers about apparel care, and the best cleaning procedures to be used for a particular combination of fabric, thread decoration and construction techniques. Following the instructions on the care labels is an assurance that the appearance and fit of the garment will

be maintained after repeated cleaning treatments.

From a manufacturer’s point of view, damage to garments from incorrect cleaning methods can lead to complaints; costly customer returns and a bad image. Whereas accurate and clearly written care labels can prevent customer dissatisfaction. From a consumer’s point of view, accurate and clearly written care instructions serve as a cleaning guide and influence purchase. Garments with ease of care are often preferred over garments with complicated or difficult to understand care procedures.

Many different care labelling systems have evolved over the world. Some have been established as a governmental regulation, while others are international standards. Not all of them however, are mandatory.

Lesser known facts about care label:

• The country where the garment is sewn is the country of origin listed on the care label
• Care labels must be permanently attached so that they are easily accessible to the consumer at the point of purchase. Generally, it is placed on the side or bottom.
• The manufacturer or importer who directs production is responsible for the accuracy of care instructions.
• A product may be imported without a care label, but it must be attached before the product is sold.

Care labeling system:

There are five care labelling systems which are generally used on care labels. These systems are:

1. The International Care Labelling System
2. The Japanese Care Labelling System
3. The Canadian Care Labelling System
4. The European Care Labelling System
5. The American Care Labelling System