This guide outlines the purpose and requirements of the Canadian Care Labelling Program. This information is issued for convenience of reference only and should be read in conjunction with the National Standard of Canada - Care Labelling of Textiles (CAN/CGSB-86.1-M) and the relevant tests in Textile Test Methods (CAN/CGSB-4.2-M) .

This bulletin relates specifically to the Canadian Care Labelling Program and the use of the Canadian Care Symbols, written instructions and other symbol systems (ISO, ASTM, etc.) may also be used, provided that the method of care represented by the symbols or words is accurate.

The purpose of this voluntary program is to provide a means by which information on the care of textile articles can be conveyed to the consumer in a simple and easily understood format. The program is based on a system of FIVE basic symbols illustrated in the three conventional "TRAFFIC LIGHT" colours. Each of the symbols, and their variations, are outlined in section 8 of the National Standard of Canada - Care Labelling of Textiles .

It should be noted, that although the program is based on symbols, words in both English and French may be used to convey special instructions not covered by the appropriate symbol (refer to page 6 item IX).

The Canadian Care Labelling Program relates to the properties of colourfastness, dimensional stability, effect of retained chlorine (bleach) and maximum safe ironing temperature. In addition, the use of this system signifies that as a result of the restorative treatment, there shall be no appreciable change in the appearance of the article. The properties which may be assessed for change in appearance include but are not limited to:
1) seam puckering due to differential shrinkage of panels;
2) blistering, delamination or deterioration of coated, bonded, laminated and fused fabrics;
3) staining of fusibles;
4) fraying of seams;
5) deterioration of fasteners; or
6) performance of textile or non-textile trim.

The system is not intended to be used on upholstered furniture, mattresses, carpets, articles that are predominantly leather and/or fur, yarns and hosiery. The success of the program rests on the integrity of the manufacturers, importers and consumers who use it.

b) Ironing Symbol
Dots or temperatures (¡ÆC) may be used as descriptive markings on the iron symbol, although dots are prefered. Textile articles bearing any of the ironing symbols must have a safe ironing temperature as indicated on the symbol by the actual temperature or number of dots. The temperature equivalents for the dots are as follows:

a. Type of Material for Label
The Standard does not specify from what type of material or fabric the label must be made, however, as many consumers have complained about stiff, scratchy labels which irritate the skin, the Standard specifies that dealers should select a label material which will be non-irritating when it is in close contact with the skin.

b. Location of Label
The Standard does not specify any one location for the care label. However, the care label must be positioned in a reasonably conspicuous area of the textile article. Inside a pant leg or a sleeve is not acceptable.

c . Permanency of Label
The material used for labels, the symbols and any additional written information must be capable of withstanding the restorative treatments the symbols represent and must be applied in such a manner that they will remain legible and firmly attached for a minimum of 10 cleanings or throughout the useful life of the article, which ever is less.

An exception to this requirement has been made for piece goods which may be labelled on the end of the bolt core or spool.