You've invested in quality clothing. Now the question is: how do you make it last?
The answer is on that small tag you've probably been ignoring.
Care labels aren't just legal requirements, they're instruction manuals for your wardrobe. Understanding what those symbols and percentages mean the difference between a garment is that lasts for years and the one that loses its shape after a few washes.
Here's how to decode them.
Why Care Labels Matter
Every fabric behaves differently, cotton shrinks in hot water, silk weakens when wet and Modal holds its shape but needs gentle handling.
Washing everything the same way is the fastest path to a ruined wardrobe.
Care labels tell you how to wash your garments (machine, hand, or dry clean), what temperature to use, whether you can tumble dry, how to iron safely and what to avoid.
Following these instructions isn't fussy, it's practical. Proper care means fewer replacements, less waste, and clothes that look better for longer.
Decoding Care Symbols
Care labels use universal symbols. Here's what they mean:
Washing (Tub icon)
- Tub with number = Maximum water temperature (30°, 40°, etc.)
- Hand in tub = Hand wash only
- Tub with X = Do not wash (dry clean only)
Drying (Square Icon)
- Circle inside square = Tumble dry OK
- One dot = Low heat
- Two dots = Medium heat
- X through square = Do not tumble dry
Ironing (Iron Icon)
- One dot = Low heat (synthetics)
- Two dots = Medium heat (wool, silk)
- Three dots = High heat (cotton, linen)
- X through iron = Do not iron
Dry Cleaning (Circle icon)
- Empty circle = Dry clean OK
- Letter inside = Specific solvent instructions for cleaner
- X through circle = Do not dry clean
Bleaching (Triangle Icon)
- Empty triangle = Any bleach OK
- Striped triangle = non-chlorine bleach only
- X through triangle = Do not bleach
Understanding Fabric Composition
Next to the care symbols, you'll find the fabric composition, the percentage breakdown of what your garment is made of.
This matters because: different fibers have different properties, it blends combine benefits (and require compromise in care) and higher quality fibers generally mean better longevity.
- The garment will behave mostly like Modal (silky drape, moisture-wicking)
- Cotton adds breathability and structure
- Care for the more delicate fiber (Modal) to be safe
Common fibers and their properties:
| Fiber Types | Properties | Care Needs |
| Organic Cotton | Breathable, soft, durable | Wash Cool, Tumble Dry Low |
| Modal | Silky, Moisture-wicking, holds it shape | Gentle Cycle, lay flat to dry |
| Linen | Highly breathable, gets softer with age | Wash cool, iron while damp |
| Hemp | Durable, antimicrobial, eco-friendly | Machine wash, softens over time |
| Silk | Temperature-regulating, delicate | Hand wash or dry clean |
Caring for Specific Fabrics
Modal and Bemberg Modal
Modal is made from beech tree pulp, it's silky, breathable, and holds colour beautifully. But it needs gentle handling.
- Wash on gentle/delicate cycle
- Use cold or lukewarm water (30°C max)
- Avoid wringing, it can stretch the fibers
- Lay flat or hang to dry
- Iron on low if needed
SEE OUR MODAL COLLECTION HERE →
Linen and Bemberg Linen
Linen is one of the oldest textiles, naturally cooling and incredibly durable. It wrinkels easily, but that's part of its character.
- Machine wash on gentle cycle
- Cool water preserves fibers
- Don't over-dry, remove while slightly damp
- Iron on medium-high while damp for crisp finish
- Embrace the natural texture, over-ironing weakens fibers
Organic Cotton
Cotton is forgiving but can shrink in hot water.
- Wash in cold or warm water (40°C max)
- Tumble dry on low or air-dry
- Iron on high heat if needed
- Avoid bleach on colored items
Hemp
Hemp is incredibly durable and gets softer with each wash.
- Machine wash warm or cool
- Tumble dry low or hang dry
- Iron on medium heat
- No special handling needed, it's tough
Silk
Silk requires the most care but rewards you with beautiful drape and temperature regulation.
- Hand wash in cool water with mild detergent
- Never wring, press water out gently
- Dry flat away from direct sunlight
- Iron on low with a pressing cloth
Practical Care Tips for Longevity
Beyond following care labels, these habits extend garment life:
- Wash Less Frequently = Not every wear requires a wash. Unless visibly soiled or sweaty, many garments can be worn 2-3 times between washes. This reduces fiber stress and fading.
- Turns garments inside out = Protects the outer surface from friction, fading, and pilling during the wash cycle.
- Use mesh laundry bags = For delicate items like Modal and silk, mesh bags prevent snagging and stretching.
- Skip the dryer when possible = Air drying is gentler on fibers. If you must tumble dry, use low heat and remove promptly.
- Store properly in humid climates = In humid area (such as Hong Kong), store garments with moisture-absorbing packets. Ensure clothes are fully dry before storing to prevent mildew.
- Rotate your wardrobe = Wearing the same pieces constantly accelerates wear. Rotating allows fibers to rest and recover.
What About Certifications?
You might see certifications mentioned on labels or product pages, like OEKO-TEX or GOTS. Here's what they mean in practical terms:
OEKO-TEX Standard 100 = The fabric has been tested for harmful chemicals. Safe for sensitive skin, safe for the environment when washed.
GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) = The organic fibers are verified from farm to finished garment. You're getting genuine organic materials, not just marketing claims.
These certifications don't change how you care for the garment, but they indicate the quality and safety of what you're wearing.
The Shinaraa Approach
We design garments meant to last, but longevity is a partnership between maker and wearer.
That's why we're transparent about fabric composition and provide detailed care guidance for every piece. Our fabrics, Bemberg Modal, Bemberg Linen, organic cotton, and hemp, are selected not just for sustainability, but for how they perform through years of wear and washing.
When you care for your clothes properly, you're not just extending their life. You're reducing waste, saving money, and getting more value from every piece.