GB/T 8685: Textiles – Care labeling code using symbols

Textile Care Labeling Code Using Symbols under the Chinese Standard

Purpose of GB/T 8685 Standard

The GB/T 8685 standard covers procedures for the preparation of care instructions for consumers in the Chinese market to prevent permanent damage to textiles and garments. The aim is to provide guidance to the consumer and commercial cleaner on appropriate methods for washing, bleaching, drying, ironing or professional textile care.

Symbols and their meanings

1. Washing Symbols
• Water Container: Normal wash.
• Hand Symbol: Hand wash only.
• Cross Sign: Do not wash.
• Temperature Values: Indicates the maximum water temperature (e.g. 30°C, 40°C).
2. Bleaching Symbols
• Triangle: Bleach may be used.
• Crossed Triangle: Do not use bleach.
• Triangle with the letter CL: Use only chlorine-based bleach.
3. Drying Symbols
• Circle in Square: Tumble drying can be done.
• Square with Lines: Natural drying.
• Circle with Crosses: Tumble drying is not allowed.
4. Ironing Symbols
• Iron Icon: Ironable.
• Number of Dots: Indicates the temperature (one dot: low, two dots: medium, three dots: high temperature).
• Crossed Iron: Do not iron.
5. Professional Cleaning Symbols
• Letter in a Circle: Indicates which chemicals can be used (e.g. P: Perchloroethylene, F: Hydrocarbon solvents).
• Crossed Circle: No dry cleaning.

According to the standard, labeling should be done as follows.

Application Areas of GB/T 8685 Standard

1. Manufacturersprovide accurate information to customers by using the correct symbols when labeling textile products.
2. ConsumersThanks to these symbols, they can extend the life of the products by taking proper care of the products.
3. Retail IndustryA standardized labeling system encourages proper care of products and reduces customer complaints.
4. Dry Cleaners and Laundriesrely on these symbols to understand what processes can be applied during professional cleaning.

Benefits of the GB/T 8685 Standard

1. Product Life ExtensionConsumers can increase the lifetime of textiles by following the right care instructions.
2. Environmental BenefitsEnergy and water can be saved with the right maintenance methods.
3. Commercial Competitive AdvantageProducts that comply with standards are more preferred in international markets.
4. Consumer SatisfactionCorrect maintenance information enables users to get maximum efficiency from the products.

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Consumer Analyzes. We also provide services in Textile Analysis.

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