How to read a fabric label: blends, care symbols and what lasts

The tag inside a garment is the most honest part of the product page. Learning to read it takes five minutes.

The common fibres#

Cotton is breathable and soft, and absorbs moisture slowly. It can shrink and creases easily.

Polyester is strong, dries fast and resists creasing. It can hold smells and does not breathe as well as natural fibres.

Nylon (polyamide) is tough and smooth. It appears in activewear, hosiery and outerwear.

Elastane (spandex or Lycra) adds stretch. A small percentage, around 2 to 5, helps jeans and tops keep their shape.

Wool insulates, handles moisture and resists odour. Merino is finer and less itchy than coarse wool.

Linen is cool and strong but creases heavily.

Viscose (rayon) feels soft and drapes well but is delicate when wet and can shrink.

What blends do#

Blends combine strengths. Cotton with a little polyester resists wrinkles. Wool with nylon is more durable. A high percentage of elastane makes clothes stretchy but may wear out sooner.

Quality signals#

Fibre content is only part of quality. Check that seams are straight, hems are even and the fabric does not look see-through when held to the light. Long fibres, such as in better cotton, pill less.

Care symbols in plain English#

• A tub with a number is the maximum wash temperature.

• A triangle relates to bleach. A crossed-out triangle means do not bleach.

• A square with a circle relates to tumble drying. A crossed-out one means do not tumble dry.

• An iron shows heat settings, with dots for the maximum.

• A circle is dry cleaning.

Some practical advice#

Wash similar colours together, turn garments inside out and close zips. Use cooler washes for stretch fabrics, since heat breaks down elastane. Check the label before you buy, not after.

If the listing doesn't say what the garment is made of, ask the seller. If they can't tell you, buy something else.