How to read the percentages on a care label

Short answer: The fibres are listed in descending order, and the largest share decides how the fabric feels. Care, on the other hand, must follow the most delicate fibre.

The order matters

If it says seventy percent viscose and thirty percent cotton, the viscose dominates. Reverse the numbers and the fabric changes character completely. Always read the first figure, as it says most about what you are getting.

When elastane comes last

Elastane is usually the last and smallest number. Two to five percent sounds like little, but it is enough to change the fit completely. See bamboo underwear for women.

The care symbols

The tub with a number gives the maximum temperature. The triangle concerns bleach, the square drying and the iron heat. A line under a symbol means gentle treatment. See bamboo clothing for women.

Wash for the weakest fibre

If there is elastane in it, wash cool whatever the rest can take. Elastane is always the fibre that fails first. See bamboo socks for women.

Frequently asked questions

What does viscose with no other word in front mean

That it is a regenerated cellulose fibre. The raw material can be bamboo, wood or something else.

Should the label be cut off

You can, but then you lose the care instructions. Photograph the label first.

Why does bamboo not appear on all bamboo items

Because the legal requirement is the fibre type. The raw material is a voluntary detail.