PREAMBLE (NOT PART OF THE STANDARD)

In order to promote public education and public safety, equal justice for all, a better informed citizenry, the rule of law, world trade and world peace, this legal document is hereby made available on a noncommercial basis, as it is the right of all humans to know and speak the laws that govern them.

END OF PREAMBLE (NOT PART OF THE STANDARD)

This Joint Australian/New Zealand Standard was prepared by Joint Technical Committee CS/4, Care Labelling of Textiles. It was approved on behalf of the Council of Standards Australia on 30 September 1997 and on behalf of the Council of Standards New Zealand on 11 November 1997. It was published on 5 January 1998.

The following interests are represented on Committee CS/4:

Apparel & Textile Federation of New Zealand
Apparel Importers Association of Australia
Australian Chemical Specialties Manufacturers Association
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission
Australian Retailers Association
Australian Wool Processors Council
Australian Wool Research and Promotion Organisation
AWTA Textile Testing (Australia)
Council of Textile and Fashion Industries of Australia
Department of Fair Trading N.S.W., Consumer Protection Agency
Drycleaning Institute of Australia
Federal Bureau of Consumer Affairs (Commonwealth of Australia)
Furnishing Industry Association of Australia
Melbourne Institute of Textiles
Ministry of Consumer Affairs (New Zealand)
New South Wales Guild of Furniture Manufacturers
New South Wales TAFE Commission
New Zealand Furniture Manufacturers Federation
Office of Consumer Affairs, Qld
Queensland University of Technology
Research Institute Textile Services (New Zealand)
Soft Furnishings Industry Association of Australia
Textile Distributors Association (Australia)
Textile Rental & Laundry Association (Australia)
University of New South Wales

Review of Standards. To keep abreast of progress in industry, Joint Australian/New Zealand Standards are subject to periodic review and are kept up to date by the issue of amendments or new editions as necessary. It is important therefore that Standards users ensure that they are in possession of the latest edition, and any amendments thereto.

Full details of all Joint Standards and related publications will be found in the Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand Catalogue of Publications; this information is supplemented each month by the magazines ‘The Australian Standard’ and ‘Standards New Zealand’, which subscribing members receive, and which give details of new publications, new editions and amendments, and of withdrawn Standards.

Suggestions for improvements to Joint Standards, addressed to the head office of either Standards Australia or Standards New Zealand, are welcomed. Notification of any inaccuracy or ambiguity found in a Joint Australian/New Zealand Standard should be made without delay in order that the matter may be investigated and appropriate action taken.

This Standard was issued in draft form for comment as DR 96087.

AS/NZS 1957:1998

Australian/New Zealand Standard^®
Textiles―Care labelling

PUBLISHED JOINTLY BY:

STANDARDS AUSTRALIA
1 The Crescent,
Homebush NSW 2140 Australia

STANDARDS NEW ZEALAND
Level 10, Radio New Zealand House,
155 The Terrace,
Wellington 6001 New Zealand

ISBN 0 7337 1554 0

PREFACE

This Standard was prepared by the Joint Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand Committee CS/4, Care Labelling of Textiles, to supersede AS 1957—1987, Care labelling of clothing, household textiles, furnishings, upholstered furniture, bedding, piece goods and yarns.

It was first published in 1966, revised in 1971 as AS L38 and again in 1976 at the request of the State Ministers for Consumer Affairs.

The Ministers had requested that the 1976 revision include performance tests and criteria which could be used either as a guide in the choice of appropriate phrases or to determine if care instructions are appropriate. It was therefore decided to develop as a separate document a guide entitled AS 2621, Care labelling— Guide to the selection of correct-care labelling instructions from AS 1957, which was published in 1983 and has been superseded by AS/NZS 2621:1998, Textiles—Guide to the selection of correct care labelling instructions from AS/NZS 1957, a companion document to this. Reference should be made to AS/NZS 2621 for performance tests and criteria for colourfastness and shrinkage because it provides a procedure to assist manufacturers in choosing washing, bleaching, drying, ironing and drycleaning instructions.

Other revisions of AS 1957 occurred in 1977, 1982 and 1987 and during this time drycleaning symbols were picked up from ISO 3758. Changes in these editions relate to which textile products require labelling and what the label should include.

In this new edition the decision was made to ensure that individual pieces of a suite of furniture be care labelled due to problems arising when one piece is taken to be drycleaned with no care instructions and to expand the care instructions for leather and upholstery. The Standard has also been reformatted into Sections.

The international symbols for care treatments other than drycleaning (drycleaning symbols are required as they were in the 1977, 1982 and 1987 editions) can be included as options, although the requirement of this Standard is that written instructions are to be supplied. Current textile labelling legislation should be referred to in addition to this Standard in order to ensure correct labelling of textile articles. Legislation may list items excluded from care labelling requirements but does not prevent care labelling.

The term ‘informative’ has been used in this Standard to define the application of the appendix to which it applies. An ‘informative’ appendix is only for information and guidance.

CONTENTS

FOREWORD

The developments in fibres, blends and finishes for textile articles have made it difficult, if not impossible, for consumers, and the laundering and drycleaning industries to determine appropriate cleaning procedures from the mere appearance of the article, or even from a description of its fibre content.

This Standard specifies the use of phrases and a number of symbols relating to drycleaning which have clearly established meaning. The proper use of phrases is a means of informing the consumer of the laundering, drycleaning, maintenance or other care procedures to be followed in order to avoid damaging the article.

The Standard does not prevent a manufacturer either from supplying additional information, if this is considered desirable, or from using phrases not included in the Standard when none of the ‘stock’ phrases are appropriate, provided that they accurately describe the necessary required care procedure.

The following are some of the causes of damage to textile, leather, plastics and plastics-coated articles that were considered by the committee when developing the care instructions:

1. General care hazards

   - Cleaning matched articles separately when colour or shade of one may change in which case ‘Clean matched separates together’ or a similar statement may be used as an instruction.

2. Laundering hazards

   - Washing when the article should not be washed.

   - Rough handling, twisting, or rubbing.

   - Washing at too high a temperature.

   - The use of bleach on an article that should not be bleached.

   - The use of soap, starch, or other finishing agent on a leather article or one which has a flame-resistant or other special finish.

   - Drying in direct sunlight or close to direct sources of heat.

   - Drying in a tumble dryer where the fabric or garment construction is not appropriate to this treatment.

3. Drycleaning hazards

   - Drycleaning when the article should not be drycleaned.

   - The use of an inappropriate drycleaning solvent.

4. Pressing and ironing hazards

   - Ironing at too high a temperature.

   - Steam pressing when the article should not be steam pressed.

5. Spot cleaning and sponge cleaning

   - The use of inappropriate cleaning fluids.

   - The use of too much moisture.

Purchasers of piece goods, yarns and other textiles are entitled to information on how to care for garments or articles they may make from those materials. This Standard requires that the information be made available at the point of purchase.

The Committee emphasizes that instructions are to be verified to ensure their suitability to that article, prior to the article being available for sale. It has also expressed concern that under-claiming or ‘low labelling’ is occurring. For example, phrases such as ‘Dryclean only’ are being used, when washing is also a suitable care treatment. Consumers then lose confidence in labels and attempt to wash articles that legitimately need to be drycleaned only. In the case of leather upholstery or garments in particular, if the prohibitive instructions ‘Do not wash’ and ‘Do not dryclean’ are used together, the manufacturer will

need to verify that this is the case. Suitable care instructions are required to be provided to the consumer in accordance with this Standard. Refer to AS/NZS 2621 as a guide to how to determine appropriate care instructions such as whether drycleaning, washing or both are suitable.

In the care of leather upholstery or garments it is particularly important to carry out the stipulated care treatment from the beginning of the article’s use so that oversoiling does not occur thus making the item harder to clean. Experience has shown that slow build up of grime can go unnoticed for some time. When it does become obvious, consumers have found that a once expensive or cherished article retains this film which could have been avoided with regular maintenance from the start. Regular maintenance is therefore encouraged. Manufacturers should consider indicating this to the consumer in a pamphlet, ticket or on the label itself.

Since the previous edition of this Standard was published, a process known as wet cleaning has become established. Currently there is no national or internationally accepted test method for determining whether a garment can be safely wet cleaned, therefore no instructions have been included in this Standard. There is also no test method for confirming the suitability of hot water extraction or on-site drycleaning processes for furniture (see Table 2). A colourfastness test to hot water or to the relevant drycleaning solvent may be used as an indication. If a manufacturer selects these phrases as suitable care treatments, it is their responsibility as in all other cases, to evaluate the process and ensure that the article will not sustain any damage.

In relation to drycleaning solvents, the use of chlorofluorocarbons such as trichlorotrifluoroethane (solvent 113) is currently under review. Future legislation may prevent these solvents from being used in drycleaning. It is anticipated the Standard will then be revised or amended, also that different solvents will be specified when available.

STANDARDS AUSTRALIA/STANDARDS NEW ZEALAND
Australian/New Zealand Standard
Textiles—Care labelling

SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL

1.1 SCOPE

This Standard sets out words, phrases and symbols to be used for giving care instructions for clothing, household textiles, apparel, furnishings, upholstered furniture and bedding, piece goods and yarns, leather apparel and upholstery. It also specifies methods by which these goods may be labelled or where appropriate, the instructions separately supplied.

NOTE: For assistance in selecting the correct care-labelling instructions for a particular article, reference should be made to AS/NZS 2621, a guide which was prepared at the request of the textile industry.

1.2 OBJECTIVE

The objective of this Standard is to provide manufacturers and consumers with a concise uniform system of care labelling a textile product with care-treatment information. Information on the selection of care labelling phrases is provided in AS/NZS 2621.

1.3 APPLICATION

The Standard is applicable to textiles, plastics and plastics-coated fabrics, suede and grain leathers, furs, skins and hides.

1.4 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS

The following documents are referred to in this Standard:

1.5 DEFINITIONS

For the purpose of this Standard the definitions below apply.

1.5.1 After treatments—any process which follows the primary cleaning process, including drying, ironing, brushing or the application of soil-resistant chemicals.

1.5.2 Bleaching—a process carried out in an aqueous medium before, during or after the washing processes using a bleach for removing stains or improving whiteness.

1.5.3 Chlorine bleach—a bleach that releases the hypochlorite ion in solution, for example, sodium hypochlorite.

1.5.4 Drycleaning—a process for cleaning an article by means of organic solvents. The process may include pre-spotting, cleaning proper, rinsing, spinning, drying and restoring to shape.

1.5.5 Dry powder cleaning—a process for cleaning an article with powder which is either applied by hand or from a pressure pack.

1.5.6 Hot water extraction—a machine process for cleaning by applying a hot detergent solution to the article. The solution is applied by spraying and is removed by a suction device.

1.5.7 Laundering—a domestic or commercial activity involving in combination all or any of the washing, bleaching, drying and ironing procedures.

1.5.8 Non-chlorine bleach—a bleach that does not release the hyopchlorite ion in solution, for example, sodium perborate, sodium percarbonate.

1.5.9 On-site drycleaning—a machine process for cleaning by applying an organic solvent to the article. The solvent is sprayed onto the article and then removed by a suction device.

1.5.10 Permanent label—a label which will withstand the cleaning treatment given for the article to which it is attached, and which will remain legible and attached to the article throughout its useful life.

1.5.11 Shampoo cleaning—a hand process for cleaning by applying foaming shampoo solution to the surface of the article followed by brushing the surface to loosen any soil.

1.5.12 Sponge cleaning—a process for cleaning an article by sponging with a damp cloth to avoid excess moisture.

1.5.13 Tumble drying—a process carried out on a textile article after washing, with the intention of removing residual water by treatment with hot air in a rotating drum.

1.5.14 Washing—a hand or machine process designed to clean an article in an aqueous bath which may include soaking, pre-washing, washing proper, mechanical action, detergent, soap or other products, rinsing, and water extraction.

1.5.15 Wipe cleaning—a hand process for cleaning by applying a cleaning solution to the surface of the article. The cleaning solution may be an aqueous detergent solution or an organic solvent as appropriate.

SECTION 2 LABELLING

2.1 INFORMATION TO BE INCLUDED ON THE PERMANENT CARE LABEL

2.1.1 General A permanent label shall include appropriate and adequate instructions written in English for the care of an article. The following also applies:

1. Care encompasses cleaning and maintenance. Appropriate care instructions are those that when followed comply with these requirements without damage to the article. Maintenance instructions are generally necessary only for articles which require a cleaning process other than laundering or drycleaning.
2. Phrases of a general nature and those indicating that a treatment is prohibited or that special care is to be taken shall be used in conjunction with the appropriate care or cleaning instructions.
3. For made-up articles the care instructions shall take into account particularly vulnerable components such as trims, unless their removal is advised, or padding in upholstered furniture and bedding if covers are not removable for cleaning.
4. To assist the consumer, launderer, drycleaner, commercial cleaner, or where appropriate care instructions are not included in Tables 1, 2, or 3, other phrases may be included on the label, provided that such phrases accurately describe the required care procedure. A manufacturer may also set out additional care instructions on a swing ticket, in a pamphlet, or on a package.

2.1.2 Care instructions for articles that can be laundered, drycleaned or both The following applies:

1. Where both laundering and drycleaning treatments are appropriate to the care of an article, the permanent label shall carry adequate instructions for both treatments and both sets of instructions shall be given on the same side of the label with the washing instruction to precede the drycleaning instruction.
2. Where no specific or prohibited drying instruction is necessary for the proper care of an article, a drying instruction is not required (see Note).

   NOTE: ‘Drip dry’ and ‘Dry in shade’ are examples of specific instructions and ‘Do not tumble dry’ is an example of a prohibited instruction.

3. Where no specific or prohibited ironing instruction is necessary for the proper care of an article, an ironing instruction is not required (see Notes 1 and 2).

   NOTES:

   1. ‘Cool iron’ and ‘Iron on reverse side’ are examples of specific instructions and ‘Do not steam iron’ and ‘Do not iron’ are examples of prohibited instructions. A statement of fibre content on a textile article should not be taken as sufficient indication of the appropriate ironing temperature as few consumers know the ironing characteristics of synthetic fibres.
   2. Ironing instructions are not considered appropriate for articles which the average consumer is unlikely to iron in normal use or care, e.g. socks.

2.1.3 Care instructions for articles unable to be laundered or drycleaned The following applies:

1. Where washing and drycleaning are both prohibited, an appropriate care instruction shall be given from Tables 1, 2 or 3 or if no such instruction is listed, a phrase shall be included that describes the required care.
2. In addition to the warning phrases ‘Do not wash’ and ‘Do not dryclean’, the permanent label shall include accurate phrases which adequately describe the care treatment.

2.2 PERMANENT LABEL REQUIREMENTS

Care instructions as described in Clause 2.1, shall be given on a permanent label complying with the following requirements:

1. The label shall be accessible for examination by a prospective consumer, or, where this is not possible because of the manner in which the article is packaged, displayed or folded, the same care instructions shall be provided additionally on the package, or on a removable label or ticket attached to the article, or on a pamphlet accompanying the article.
2. The label shall carry the entire wording of the appropriate care instructions in accordance with Clause 2.1.1 and 2.1.2 or 2.1.3, whichever is applicable.
3. The wording of the label shall be in English, clearly legible, and of medium width lettering of which no individual letter shall be less than 1.5 mm high (see Note 1).
4. Articles with multiple components shall each have separate permanent labels (see Note 5).

   NOTES:

   1. Medium width the width which the manufacturer (of the type) puts forward under the name of the family (i.e. the group of typefaces which are derived from one basic design) as the normal width from which variants in the family have been or may be derived.
   2. Thread, tapes, zippers, facings and similar components should have similar dimensional stability and colourfastness as the base fabric for the particular care treatment advised.
   3. For guidance on alternative attachment positions for labels and the way in which care information may be combined with other information on a label, e.g. fibre content, reference should be made to AS 2392.
   4. Care instructions as appropriate should be in the sequence of washing, bleaching, drying, ironing and drycleaning.
   5. Individual components of multiple articles (e.g. a jacket, skirt, trousers, vest from a suit) all need to have a care label attached whether the same care instructions apply or not. In cases when the care instructions differ for one or more component(s), such as for example, when the fabric, fibre content, colour or trims differ (e.g. a jacket may have two colours or a trim), a different set of care instructions and therefore a different care label should be attached to that component.

2.3 COMMERCIAL DOCUMENTS IN LIEU OF OR SUPPLEMENTING LABELS

In instances where textile products pass between processors without being offered for sale to the end consumer, labels may be replaced or supplemented by accompanying commercial documents.

These documents shall designate the correct care information in accordance with this Standard.

SECTION 3 CLASSIFICATION OF ARTICLES

3.1 PROCEDURE

The article shall be classified into one of the categories listed under the headings of Clauses 3.2, 3.3, 3.4 or 3.5.

NOTE: Guidance may be obtained from AS/NZS 2621 which will assist manufacturers in selecting the appropriate instructions. It also nominates test methods to verify the choice. The ‘Product end use index’ in AS/NZS 2621 lists product examples and the care treatments for which it is necessary to include an instruction.

3.2 MADE-UP ARTICLES, APPAREL AND HOUSEHOLD TEXTILES

The permanent label shall include, where appropriate, adequate instructions from care instruction categories A, B, C, D and E set out in either Table 1 or Table 3.

Care instructions on permanent labels for made up articles, apparel and household textiles shall be in accordance with Clause 2.1.1 and Clauses 2.1.2 or 2.1.3 whichever is applicable.

3.3 PIECE GOODS, YARNS AND OTHER MATERIALS

3.3.1 Piece goods and other textiles—Method of labelling The care instructions for piece goods and other non-made-up textiles shall be clearly and legibly stated in one of the following ways:

1. On a label or ticket attached to the roll of fabric.
2. By printing or weaving the care instructions in the selvedge.
3. On the label on sample books or swatches of the goods.

NOTE: For labelling of yarns see Clauses 3.3.5 and 3.3.6 below.

3.3.2 Label contents The care label, ticket or pamphlet shall include, where appropriate, adequate instructions from care instruction categories A, B, C, D, E set out in Table 1.

3.3.3 Care instructions for piece goods, yarns and other textile materials Care instructions for piece goods, yarns and other textile materials shall be made available by the supplier to the manufacturer or retailer who shall make them fully available to the consumer in accordance with Clauses 3.3.1, 3.3.4, 3.3.5, and 3.3.6.

3.3.4 Information to be included on the label Care instructions given shall be in accordance with Clause 2.1.1 and Clauses 2.1.2 or 2.1.3 whichever is applicable. Additional instructions may be given to assist the consumer, for example, where a fabric has a specific end-use or requires special thread, trimmings, facings or interfacing or a special method of sewing.

3.3.5 Yarns for the end consumer The care instructions of yarns for the end consumer shall be clearly stated on an adhesive label fixed to the inside of the cone or spool or on a swing ticket, wrapper or band attached to the reel, ball or skein.

3.3.6 Yarns for commercial use The care instructions of yarns for commercial use shall be clearly stated on an adhesive label fixed to the inside of the cone or spool, or on a swing ticket, wrapper or band attached to the cone or spool.

3.4 UPHOLSTERED FURNITURE (INCLUDING LEATHER), BEDDING AND OTHER FURNISHINGS

The permanent label shall include, where appropriate, adequate instructions from each of the care instruction categories A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H of Table 2.

NOTE: This Clause ensures that the consumer is given a choice of cleaning methods. Care instructions should be given for all methods of care appropriate for the item. Care methods are shampoo cleaning, hot water extraction, wipe cleaning, spot cleaning, drying and on-site drycleaning. Furnishing includes items such as curtains or pillows.

Care instructions on the permanent label for furniture, bedding, drapes and curtains shall be in accordance with Clause 2.1.1 and Clauses 2.1.2 or 2.1.3, whichever is applicable. Individual pieces of a suite of furniture shall all be labelled, e.g. cushions.

NOTE: This Clause ensures that appropriate care instructions are provided for removable and loose upholstery covers. In such cases, appropriate instructions for washing and drycleaning must be provided.

3.5 LEATHER AND FUR APPAREL (INCLUDING SHEEPSKINS)

The permanent label shall include where appropriate, adequate instructions from each of the care instruction categories A, B, C, D, E of Table 3.

NOTE: This Clause ensures that the consumer is given a choice of cleaning methods. Care instructions should be given for all methods of care appropriate for the item.

Care instructions on the permanent label for leather and fur apparel as well as sheepskin articles shall be in accordance with Clause 2.1.1 and Clauses 2.1.2 or 2.1.3, whichever is applicable.

3.6 CARE LABELLING PHRASES AND SYMBOLS

The care labelling phrases in Tables 1, 2 and 3 have been divided into five categories, eight categories and five categories respectively. Select firstly the relevant Table based on the procedure as set out in Section 3, then select care instructions from each category that are appropriate to the article (guidance can be obtained in AS/NZS 2621). For upholstered furniture, bedding and other furnishings in Table 2, instructions shall be given from each category and a prohibitive instruction given if a cleaning method is unsuitable.

NOTE: Example labels are given in Appendix A for care instructions from Tables 2 and 3.

Where appropriate, phrases stating a washing temperature and agitation may be combined to form a concise phrase, e.g. Short machine wash—warm, Warm hand wash.

Symbols shall be included for drycleaning instructions in addition to the relevant phrase in Table 1. For other care treatments, symbols may be included as an option but shall be in addition to the relevant phrase.

NOTE: Symbols for care instructions other than drycleaning are not included in this Standard. If information is sought on care symbols, reference should be made to ISO 3758. Some countries have their own national symbol system. In instances when export is envisaged, refer to the relevant national Standard(s) for care labelling requirements and information.

TABLE 1
CARE INSTRUCTIONS APPLICABLE TO LAUNDERING AND DRYCLEANING OF MADE UP ARTICLES, APPAREL AND HOUSEHOLD TEXTILES, PIECE GOODS AND YARNS

	l	2	3
	Category	Care instruction	Notes
A	GENERAL AND WARNINGS Phrases in this category shall be used in conjunction with care instructions appropriate to the article or piece good.
		REMOVE TRIMS	Trims include buttons, stiffened belts, shoulder pads and similar that may be adversely affected by the cleaning process recommended. These items may be mentioned on the label.
		DESIGNED TO FADE NON-COLOURFAST	These phrases are strictly limited to use with products that fade (in washing only) in order to satisfy fashion trends which promote wash fading.
		GARMENT SIZED TO ALLOW FOR SHRINKAGE WASH BEFORE WEARING	These phrases are for use where a garment is larger than marked size to allow for known shrinkage.
		CLEAN MATCHED SEPARATES TOGETHER	To be used where all items of a matched set carry a common care instruction. (Note that some items may also carry additional care instructions)
B	WASHING
	(a) General	WASH SEPARATELY BEFORE USE	This phrase is to be used when, for example, excess starch should be removed.
		WASH SEPARATELY	This phrase is to be used where cross staining with other articles is expected to be a problem.
		WASH WITH SIMILAR COLOURS	This phrase is to be used where cross staining between similar colours is not expected to be a problem, i.e. same shade and depth.
		ONLY NON-CHLORINE BLEACH WHEN NEEDED	Use non-chlorine bleach only. Chlorine bleach should not be used.
	(b) Prohibited treatments	DO NOT SOAK	This phrase is to be used when colour bleeding may occur if textile goods are left wet for a considerable time.
	These phrases shall be used in conjunction with appropriate care instructions.	DO NOT SOAK IN PRODUCTS CONTAINING ENZYMES	This phrase is to be used when soaking in enzymes may damage fabrics.
		DO NOT SOAK IN PRODUCTS CONTAINING OXYGEN-BASED BLEACHES	This phrase is to be used when soaking in oxygen bleach may damage fabrics. 12
		DO NOT USE SOAP-WASH IN SYNTHETIC DETERGENT	Applies to fabric which may have had a special treatment.
		DO NOT WASH	This phrase is considered to be a stronger term than DRYCLEAN ONLY, but it is felt that DRYCLEAN ONLY may be more acceptable in some cases.
		DO NOT WASH IN DETERGENTS CONTAINING ENZYMES	This phrase is to be used when enzymes may damage fabrics.
		DO NOT WASH IN DETERGENTS CONTAINING BLEACHES	This phrase is to be used when any bleach may damage or whiten a fabric when not desired.
		DO NOT STARCH	Applies to fabric which may have had a special treatment.
		DO NOT BOIL	Applies to fabric which may have had a special treatment.
		DO NOT BLEACH	Applies to any bleach product.
		DO NOT USE CHLORINE BLEACHES	This phrase is to be used when chlorine bleach may damage or whiten a fabric when not desired.
		DO NOT WASH IN PRODUCTS CONTAINING OPTICAL BRIGHTENERS (FLUOR ESCERS)	Applies to colours/shades which may become whiter or brighter during washing.
		DO NOT HAND WRING	This phrase means no twisting by hand. Use of a hand wringer or wringing machine is permitted.
		DO NOT WRING	This phrase means no wringing at all either by hand or by machine.
		DO NOT RUB
		DO NOT SPIN
		DO NOT USE ORGANIC SOLVENT-BASED PREWASH TREATMENTS	This phrase is to be used when organic prewash treatments may discolour or damage fabric.
	(c) Washing temperature	COLD WASH	Normal water supply temperature.
	These phrases may be linked with the phrases in (d) Agitation, e.g. SHORT MACHINE WASH-WARM, HOT MACHINE WASH, WARM HAND WASH		Maximum washing temperatures:
		WARM WASH	40°C — pleasantly warm to the hand.
		HOT WASH	60°C—the temperature of water from most domestic hot taps.
		VERY HOT WASH	70°C
		BOIL	95°C 13
	(d) Agitation	HAND WASH
		SHORT MACHINE WASH	This phrase means a shorter process than is normal. Where the degree of agitation produced by the particular machine including that by rinsing can be reduced, such reduction may be used as an alternative to, or in addition to, the use of a shorter process.
		GENTLE MACHINE WASH	Low mechanical action— slow speed.
		MACHINE WASH	This phrase means the normal washing process for the particular machine.
	(e) Rinsing	COLD RINSE
		WARM RINSE
		COLD RINSE WELL
		WARM RINSE WELL
	(f) Water removal	NORMAL SPIN
		REDUCED SPIN	This phrase means the spin should be shortened.
		GENTLE SPIN	This phrase means the spin should be reduced in speed.
C	DRYING
	Where no specific or prohibited drying instruction is necessary for the proper care of an article, a drying instruction is not required (see Clause 2.1.2).
	(a) Specific	LINE DRY
		DRIP DRY
		DRY AWAY FROM DIRECT HEAT
		DRY IN SHADE
		GENTLY PULL TO SHAPE
		DRY FLAT
		DRY FLAT IN SHADE
		DRY WITHOUT DELAY
		HANG BY CORNERS AND DRY IN SHADE 14
	(b) Prohibited treatments	DO NOT LINE DRY	Do not hang damp from line.
		DO NOT TUMBLE DRY
	(c) Tumble drying	MAY BE TUMBLE
		DRIED—COLD
		MAY BE TUMBLE
		DRIED —WARM
		MAY BE TUMBLE
		DRIED—HOT
D	IRONING
	Where no specific or prohibited ironing instruction is necessary for the proper care of an article, an ironing instruction is not required (see Clause 2.1.2).
	(a) General and prohibited treatments	DO NOT IRON	This phrase is a warning against hand ironing, pressing and calendering and should be used for fabrics containing chlorofibres and PVA (polyvinyl alcohol).
		STEAM IRON
		DO NOT STEAM IRON
		IRON WHEN DRY
		IRON ON REVERSE SIDE
		IRON UNDER DAMP
		CLOTH
		IRON UNDER DRY CLOTH
	(b) Temperature		The explanatory notes below are intended solely as a guide to the ironing conditions generally recommended for different fibres; the nature of the finish or dyes present may, however, require milder conditions to be specified.
		COOL IRON	For fabrics containing acetate, acrylic, elastane (polyurethane) or modacrylic fibres (approx. 110°C).
		WARM IRON	For fabrics containing triacetate, viscose, silk, polyamide (nylon), polyester fibres or wool (approx. 150°C).
		HOT IRON	For cotton and linen (approx. 200°C).
E	DRYCLEANING
	(a) Prohibited treatment	DO NOT DRYCLEAN	15
		DRYCLEAN —NO STEAM	To be used where steam or steam pressing could cause damage or dimensional change.
	(b) General phrases	DRYCLEAN ONLY DRYCLEANABLE	To be used only where washing is inappropriate.
		DRYCLEANING RECOMMENDED	This phrase should be used where this cleaning process is considered preferable to washing, although the latter may be permissible.
	(c) Symbols These symbols are to be used in conjunction with the appropriate phrase.		Drycleaning in all solvents normally used for drycleaning—this includes all solvents listed for the symbol
			Drycleaning in perchloroethylene, and all solvents listed for the symbol Normal cleaning procedures without restrictions.
			Drycleaning in the solvents listed in the previous paragraph. Strict limitations on the addition of water or mechanical action or temperature during cleaning or drying. No self-service cleaning allowed. Drycleaning in trifluorotrichloroethane*, white spirit (distillation temperature between 150°C and 210°C, flashpoint 38°C to 60° C). Normal cleansing procedures without restrictions.
			Drycleaning in the solvents listed in the previous paragraph. Strict limitations on the addition of water or mechanical action or temperature during cleaning or drying. No self-service cleaning allowed.
			Do not dryclean.
			No stain removal with solvents.
	* Trifluorotrichloroethane (CFC 113) is a restricted chemical. Use of this chemical is under review. 16

TABLE 3
CARE INSTRUCTIONS APPLICABLE TO LEATHER AND FUR APPAREL (INCLUDING SHEEPSKINS)

1		2	3
Category		Care instruction	Notes
A	PROHIBITED TREATMENT Phrases in this category shall be used in conjunction with care instructions appropriate to the article, hide or skin.	DO NOT WASH	In order to use these two instructions together, manufacturers will need to be able to verify that this is the case and supply a suitable alternative care instruction.
		DO NOT DRYCLEAN
		DO NOT IRON
		DO NOT USE SILICONE-BASED PRODUCTS
		DO NOT USE LEATHER CONDITIONER
		DO NOT SOAK FOR PROLONGED PERIODS	Applies to sheepskin products.
		DO NOT USE BLEACH, DETERGENT OR ENZYME WASHING PRODUCTS	Applies to sheepskin products.
		DO NOT USE SHOE, FLOOR OR LAUNDRY CLEANERS	These phrases apply to coated fabrics and leather which would be adversely affected by inappropriate methods of cleaning or the application of inappropriate care products.
		DO NOT USE SOLVENTS OR CLEANING FLUID
		DO NOT USE SHOE CREAM OR SADDLERY PRODUCTS
		DO NOT SPONGE, WIPE CLEAN OR SHAMPOO	Applies to leather other than top-coated leather.
		DO NOT USE A WIRE OR HARD BRISTLE BRUSH	Applies to suede leather.
B	GENERAL CARE TREATMENT (a) General	LEATHER STAIN-RESIST TREATMENT RECOMMENDED BEFORE FIRST USE	This phrase applies to aniline, nubuck and suede leathers which have not been prior treated.
		USE ONLY LEATHER CARE PRODUCTS SUITABLE FOR (INSERT LEATHER TYPE AND FINISH HERE) AND STRICTLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS	In order to use this instruction, garment manufacturers should identify the leather type and finish on the label.
		(INSERT BRAND HERE) LEATHER CLEANER IS SUITABLE	It is appropriate to include a recommendation for appropriate care products, e.g. ‘Product X is recommended’. 23
		TO BE CLEANED BY A SPECIALIST CLEANER ONLY	Applies to leather and furs which cannot be cleaned by the consumer.
		CLEANING BY SPECIALIST CLEANER RECOMMENDED	Alternative to using proprietary cleaners.
		MAY BE CLEANED BY A LEATHER CLEANING SPECIALIST
		TO BE CLEANED BY A SPECIALIST CLEANER ONLY
		STORE IN A COOL AREA AT A CONSTANT TEMPERATURE	These phrases apply particularly to furs.
		STORE WHERE AIR CAN CIRCULATE
	(b) Specific	WIPE WITH A CLEAN CLOTH DAMPENED WITH MILD PURE SOAP SOLUTION MADE FROM SOAP FLAKES (NOT DETERGENT, TOILET SOAP OR COSMETIC SOAP)	These phrases apply to leather which is resistant to water-based cleaners.
			The qualification statement in brackets is optional. It can be included to emphasize that only pure soap can be used.
		WASH ONLY IN SYNTHETIC DETERGENT	Applies to washable leather.
		DO NOT WET EXCESSIVELY
		BUFF WITH A DRY CLOTH
		AVOID HARD RUBBING OR SCRUBBING
	(c) Specialist cleaning	SOLVENT TEMPERATURE 25°C TRIMS TO BE MASKED	These phrases apply to leathers which may be drycleaned by specialist cleaners experienced in the cleaning of leather.
		TRIMS TO BE REMOVED
		SHORT CYCLE
C	DRYING	DRY NATURALLY AT ROOM TEMPERATURE AWAY FROM DIRECT HEAT	24
D	AFTER TREATMENTS	DO NOT IRON
		DO NOT USE SILICON E-BASED PRODUCTS	Silicone-based products may interfere with the refinishing of the leather and damage the surface finish on a leather.
		DO NOT USE LEATHER CONDITIONER
		OCCASIONAL USE OF LEATHER CONDITIONER SUITABLE FOR (INSERT LEATHER TYPE AND FINISH HERE) IS RECOMMENDED	This phrase applies to the use of products which incorporate tanning oils to maintain the softness and flexibility of leathers.
			In order to use this instruction, garment manufacturers should identify the leather type and finish on the label.
		(INSERT BRAND HERE) LEATHER CONDITIONER IS SUITABLE	It is appropriate to include a recommendation for suitable care products, e.g. Product X is recommended.
		REGULAR USE OF LEATHER PROTECTORS SUITABLE FOR TOP-COATED LEATHERS RECOMMENDED	These phrases apply to the use of wax-based products which produce a temporary protective layer and gloss to the surface of the leather.
		LEATHER PROTECTOR SUITABLE FOR LEATHER TYPE MAY BE USED OCCASIONALLY
		(INSERT BRAND HERE) LEATHER PROTECTOR IS SUITABLE	It is appropriate to include a recommendation for suitable care products, e.g. Product X is recommended.
		RENEW STAIN-RESIST TREATMENT WHEN NECESSARY TO MAINTAIN EFFECTIVENESS	Applies to leather treated with fluorochemical stain resist treatment.
E	WEARER’S ADVICE	HANG ON WELL-SHAPED HANGER	These phrases are optional and may be provided as supplementary care information as appropriate.
		STORE AWAY FROM DIRECT SUNLIGHT
		DO NOT STORE IN PLASTIC BAG
		STORE WHERE AIR CAN CIRCULATE
		AVOID OVERSOILING 25
		AVOID SOLVENT BASED FLUOROCARBON-TYPE STAIN-RESIST TREATMENTS
		OIL AND GREASE STAINS REQUIRE SPECIALIST CLEANING
		DO NOT USE ADHESIVE STICKERS
		DO NOT PLACE NEAR FIRE OR RADIATOR FOR DRYING OR ANY OTHER REASON
		DRY NATURALLY AT ROOM TEMPERATURE AWAY FROM DIRECT HEAT

APPENDIX A
MODEL LABELS WHICH SHOW EXAMPLES OF CARE LABELS FOR LEATHER, PRODUCED AFTER JOINING THE APPROPRIATE INSTRUCTIONS FROM TABLES 2 AND 3

(Informative)

The three examples set out in this Appendix are not intended to be applied to all leathers of that type, they are just one of a number of variations.

EXAMPLE 1
TOP-COATED LEATHER

LEATHER WITH SURFACE FINISH WHICH IS RESISTANT TO WATER, NOT RESISTANT TO SOLVENTS

TOP-COATED LEATHER CARE INSTRUCTIONS DO NOT WASH DO NOT DRYCLEAN DO NOT USE SOLVENTS OR CLEANING FLUID DO NOT USE SHOE, FLOOR OR LAUNDRY CLEANERS DO NOT USE SHOE CREAM OR SADDLERY PRODUCTS USE ONLY LEATHER CARE PRODUCTS SUITABLE FOR TOP-COATED LEATHER AND STRICTLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS (INSERT BRAND HERE) LEATHER CLEANER IS SUITABLE OR WIPE WITH A CLEAN CLOTH DAMPENED WITH A MILD PURE SOAP SOLUTION MADE FROM SOAP FLAKES (NOT DETERGENT, TOILET SOAP OR COSMETIC SOAP) DO NOT WET EXCESSIVELY AVOID HARD RUBBING OR SCRUBBING BUFF WITH A DRY CLOTH DRY NATURALLY AT ROOM TEMPERATURE AWAY FROM DIRECT HEAT OR MAY BE CLEANED BY A LEATHER CLEANING SPECIALIST DO NOT IRON LEATHER PROTECTOR SUITABLE FOR TOP-COATED LEATHER MAY BE USED OCCASIONALLY (INSERT BRAND HERE) LEATHER PROTECTOR IS SUITABLE

NOTES:

1. This care label is intended for top-coated apparel leathers having a surface finish which resists water and oil-based stains. Leathers in this category are not damaged by water-based cleaners but are damaged by solvents including those used for drycleaning.
2. This label has been designed for a particular type of leather. It is the responsibility of the leather supplier or the garment manufacturer to ensure that any care label is appropriate for their particular product.
3. It is recommended that advice to the wearer be provided by means of a swing tag. This information is regarded as useful although not essential. The care instructions must be attached to the garment by means of a permanent label (see Clause 2.2).
4. This example includes recommendations for a suitable leather cleaner and conditioner. These recommendations are optional.

EXAMPLE 2
DYED LEATHER

DYED LEATHER WITH NO SURFACE FINISH, LIMITED WATER-MARKING TENDENCY AND RESISTANT TO SOLVENTS

DYED LEATHER CARE INSTRUCTIONS LEATHER STAIN-RESIST TREATMENT RECOMMENDED BEFORE FIRST USE TO BE CLEANED BY A SPECIALIST CLEANER ONLY DO NOT WASH DO NOT USE SHOE, FLOOR OR LAUNDRY CLEANERS DO NOT USE SHOE CREAM OR SADDLERY PRODUCTS USE ONLY LEATHER CARE PRODUCTS SUITABLE FOR DYED LEATHER AND STRICTLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS (INSERT BRAND HERE) LEATHER CLEANER IS SUITABLE DO NOT IRON RENEW STAIN-RESIST TREATMENT WHEN NECESSARY TO MAINTAIN EFFECTIVENESS SPECIALIST CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS SOLVENT TEMPERATURE 25°C TRIMS TO BE MASKED SHORT CYCLE

NOTES:

1. This care label is intended for leathers which show a limited watermarking tendency and are resistant to cleaning solvents, i.e. perchlorelhylene, white spirit or fluorocarbons. In addition to drycleaning by a specialist cleaner, these leathers may be cleaned using solvent-based cleaners such as those generally used for suede leather.
2. This label has been designed for a particular type of leather. It is the responsibility of the leather supplier or the garment manufacturer to ensure that any care label is appropriate for their particular product.
3. It is recommended that advice to the wearer be provided by means of a swing tag. This information is regarded as useful although not essential. The care instructions must be attached to the garment by means of a permanent label (see Clause 2.2).

EXAMPLE 3
TOP-COATED LEATHER (PIGMENTED FINISH)

NOTES

1. This care label is intended for non-removable upholstery covers made from top-coated leathers with a pigmented finish which may be wipe cleaned with an aqueous solution. These leathers are damaged by most common solvents.
2. This label has been designed for a particular type of leather. It is the responsibility of the leather supplier or the furniture manufacturer to ensure that any care label is appropriate for their particular product.

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