Name labels that withstand washing
Lappu's name labels withstand 60°C in the washing machine, tumble dryer and dishwasher. When attached correctly, they stay in place for a full school year - and the text does not fade.
4.9/5 from parents · printed in the EU · customer satisfaction guarantee with money back.
How much washing can the name labels withstand?
Lappu's name labels withstand 60°C in the washing machine, tumble dryer and dishwasher. The text does not fade and the label does not come off, provided it is attached to the care label and has been left to cure for a full day.
This means the same label stays in place throughout the autumn term and spring: the jacket washed every week, the lunch box washed every day and the water bottle that goes in and out of the bag.
Brief summary:
- Washing machine: up to 60°C.
- Tumble dryer: yes.
- Dishwasher: yes.
- Text: does not fade.
- Lifespan: normally a full school year or longer when placed correctly.
"Sticky labels come off" - that's why they don't here
The most common objection to self-adhesive name labels is that they come off in the wash. Almost always, this is due to where the label is placed, not the label itself.
If you stick the label directly onto the fabric, the fabric moves in the washing machine and pulls at the edges of the label until it comes off. The solution is to attach the label to the sewn-in care label, which stays still and is often made of a synthetic material that the adhesive bonds firmly to.
Follow these steps to keep the label in place:
- Clean the care label. It should be clean, dry and free from dust and grease.
- Press firmly into place. Peel off the label, place it on the care label and press firmly for a few seconds, especially at the corners.
- Wait 24 hours. Let the adhesive cure for a full day before the first wash. This is the step most often skipped - and it is crucial.
If you do this, it is unusual for a label to come off. Should an individual label still come loose, it is covered by our customer satisfaction guarantee.
How much washing can different name labels withstand?
Not all name labels are made for the same type of washing. Here's the general overview.
| Type of name label | Washing temperature | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|
| Self-adhesive (Lappu) | 60°C - washing, drying and dishwashing | Purchased clothes with a care label + shoes, bottles, lunch boxes |
| Iron-on (competitors) | Often 90–95°C | Garments without a care label: hand-knitted items, wool, socks |
90 to 95°C applies to competitors' iron-on labels, not Lappu's self-adhesive labels. Do you need to withstand really high temperatures on garments without a care label? Read the guide to iron-on name labels.
When do they work less well - and what do you do then?
Adhesive name labels work best on garments with a care label. On completely hand-knitted garments without a care label, such as wool mittens and hats, the label has no stable surface to adhere to and therefore does not stay on as well. For such garments, an iron-on label that is heat-attached to the fabric is more suitable. Lappu does not sell iron-on labels, but we are being transparent so you can choose the right option. See when an iron-on label is a better fit.
Frequently asked questions about washing and durability
Can the name labels withstand 60 degrees?
Yes. Lappu name labels can withstand 60°C in the washing machine, tumble dryer, and dishwasher. Wait 24 hours after attaching them before the first wash.
Can they withstand the tumble dryer and dishwasher?
Yes, both. The same label can withstand the washing machine, tumble dryer, and dishwasher when placed correctly.
Does the text fade in the wash?
No. The text is designed to withstand repeated washes without fading.
Why does an adhesive label sometimes come loose?
Almost always because it was attached directly to the fabric, which moves in the wash. Attach the label to the sewn-in care label and let it cure for 24 hours, and it will stay on.
How long do they stay on?
With correct placement and 24 hours of curing, they normally last an entire school year or longer. Several parents report that last year's labels are still attached.
Can they withstand 90 degrees?
No. Lappu's adhesive labels are made for 60°C. For 90 to 95°C, an iron-on label is needed, which we do not sell but are happy to recommend.
Do I really have to wait 24 hours?
Yes, if you want them to last. The 24 hours allows the adhesive to cure so the label can withstand the first wash. Skipping this step is the most common mistake.
What happens if a label still comes loose?
That is unusual when they are placed correctly. If it does happen, it is covered by our customer satisfaction guarantee with a money-back guarantee.
Parents confirm that they last
4.9 out of 5 based on approximately 44 reviews. One parent writes that the labels from the previous school year are still attached to all the clothes. We offer a customer satisfaction guarantee with a money-back guarantee and no complicated conditions, and 10% of our profits goes to children in need. Read all reviews.
Labels that last all school year
Design your name labels, attach them to the care label, and let them cure for 24 hours. After that, they can withstand wash after wash.
Design your name labelsLearn about adhesive name labels