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What do care labels on apparel or other textile products mean?

The USA care labels show the type of care recommended for textile or apparel items. Words in English or a symbol may be used. Most symbols are easy to understand, but some symbols may be a little more perplexing. Symbols were introduced to deal with language barriers in a diverse population and for ease in international trade. For further information about care labels and a chart of care symbols, download the publication Consumer Choices: Using Textile Labels.  

The Care Labeling Rule is under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Federal Trade Commision. Additional rules under the U.S. Customs Service govern products with internationally-produced components. 


Reference: Consumer Choices, Pm 733, Iowa State University Extension

Author: Jan Stone, Extension Specialist

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