What information must a clothing label have?

Clothing labels play a crucial role in the consumer’s purchasing decision: They not only serve to identify a garment, but also provide useful and necessary information. From material composition to care instructions, every detail on the label is essential to ensure customer satisfaction and regulatory compliance. But what information should a clothing label include, what are the regulations that govern it and how can it influence consumer perception?

Why is clothing labelling important?

Garment labels are a key piece of communication between manufacturer and consumer that goes beyond legal requirements. A well-designed and clear label can prevent problems related to improper care of garments, provide reassurance about the quality and origin of materials, and comply with international regulations, which often vary from market to market.

Mandatory basic information on clothing labels

Textile labelling is regulated by a number of regulations that vary from country to country or region to region. These regulations ensure that consumers receive accurate and relevant information about the garments they buy. Globally, there are common standards, such as manufacturer identification, material composition, and country of origin, which are mandatory in most markets.

Identification of the manufacturer or distributor

The label on a garment should include identification of the responsible manufacturer or distributor, such as the company name, address and, in some cases, contact information, in case the consumer needs to contact the manufacturer about problems with the garment or needs to assert warranties or legal rights.

Composition of materials

It is mandatory to specify the composition of the materials on the label, i.e. the percentage of textile fibres used in the manufacture of the garment, such as cotton, polyester, wool, etc. This information is crucial for consumers to make informed choices, especially if they have allergies or prefer certain materials.

Country of origin

The country of origin is another mandatory piece of information that must appear on the label. It indicates where the garment was made and can influence the consumer’s perception of the quality and ethics of production. It is also a legal requirement in many countries for tariff and import regulation purposes.

Care instructions on clothing labels

Other information included on clothing labels are care instructions, to help the consumer keep the garment in good condition for as long as possible, and to enable them to make an informed purchasing decision as to whether the garment will be suitable for their washing habits or require special care.

Universal laundry symbols

Labels should include universal washing symbols indicating how the garment should be cared for. These symbols cover instructions on washing, drying, ironing, use of bleach and so on. The correct use of these symbols helps consumers to keep the garment in good condition for longer, avoiding accidental damage.

Detailed care and maintenance instructions

In addition to the symbols, it is advisable to include detailed care instructions for the garment. This may include specific advice on how to treat stains, the best way to iron, or any special recommendations for delicate materials. Providing these detailed instructions can improve the longevity of the garment and customer satisfaction.

Other useful information on clothing labels

There is other information that is useful in facilitating the consumer’s purchasing decision, for example:

Size and dimensions

Labels should clearly state the size of the garment. In some cases, especially for garments that can vary greatly in fit, such as suits or jeans, it is also recommended to include specific dimensions (e.g. leg length, waist, etc.). This helps consumers to choose the correct size and reduces returns and exchanges for the shop.

Allergy and chemical information

If the garment contains chemicals that may cause allergies, it is essential that this information is included on the label. This is especially relevant for people with sensitive skin or known allergies to certain dyes or materials. Including this information not only complies with safety regulations, but also shows responsibility and care for the health of the consumer.

Differences in labelling regulations between the EU, US, and Asia

Labelling regulations vary significantly between regions such as the European Union, the United States and Asia. For example, on material composition, in the EU it is mandatory that the label indicates the exact percentage of each textile fibre used in the garment. In addition, it must be written in all the official languages of the countries where it is marketed. In the US, the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act requires the predominant fibre to be indicated, as well as the percentage of each fibre in descending order. However, it is not required to be in multiple languages. In China, labelling must comply with GB/T 29862-2013, which requires details on fibre composition, but must be in simplified Chinese.

On the other hand, in the EU, the country of origin must be clearly indicated, but there is no regulation requiring this information to be in a specific language. In the US, the indication of the country of origin is mandatory and must be in English. In Japan, the label must include the country of origin in Japanese, and it is common to see labels that combine English and Japanese for ease of understanding.

Regarding care instructions, in the EU they must follow the universal washing symbols established by ISO 3758. These symbols are standard throughout the region and do not require translation. However, some countries may require additional instructions in the local language. In the USA, labels must include detailed care instructions in English, using both symbols and text. In South Korea, care instructions must be in Korean and follow local regulations which may include symbols and detailed text.

As far as sizes and dimensions are concerned, in the EU sizes generally follow a number system (e.g. 38, 40, 42) or the letter system (S, M, L). Sometimes labels also include measurements in centimetres (e.g. bust, waist). In the US, sizes are usually in numbers for women, although with different ranges than in Europe, and in letters for men’s and casual wear. They may also include dimensions in inches. Japan uses a sizing system that may include both numbers and letters. Dimensions are usually in centimetres.

For companies selling in multiple markets, it is crucial to adapt labels to comply with local regulations in each country. This may involve translating information, adding specific symbols or details required by local laws, and ensuring that labels are culturally appropriate.

Impact of labelling on consumer perception

A well-designed and comprehensive label can significantly improve the consumer’s perception of a garment. When a customer finds all the information they need in a clear and accessible way, they are more likely to trust the brand and be satisfied with their purchase.

In addition, several studies have shown that clothing labels influence purchasing decisions. For example, labels that highlight sustainable production practices or the use of organic materials can attract eco-conscious consumers. Also, clear and detailed garment care labels can reduce return rates and increase customer satisfaction in the long run.

In short, clothing labels are much more than just a legal requirement; they are a vital tool for communication between manufacturer and consumer. From manufacturer identification and material composition to care instructions and international regulations, every detail on the label has a specific and essential purpose that enhances brand perception and increases customer satisfaction.