Washing and care

Last updated 1 October 2026

A few minutes of care when you put the labels on makes them last much longer. Here is what works best for each kind of item.

Putting name stickers on

  1. Make sure the surface is clean, dry and free of grease. Wipe bottles and boxes first.
  2. Peel the sticker and press it on from the middle outwards, smoothing out any bubbles.
  3. Rub firmly over the whole sticker for a few seconds, especially the edges.
  4. Leave it for 24 hours before washing, so the glue can set.

Stickers stick best to smooth, flat or gently curved surfaces. They are not for items a young child may put in their mouth. See our safety information.

Bottles and lunch boxes

  • Put labelled items on the top rack of the dishwasher, away from the heating element.
  • Hand washing in warm soapy water is gentlest and helps labels last longest.
  • Avoid scouring pads and abrasive cleaners on the label itself.
  • Do not microwave or freeze labelled items.

Clothes, PE kit and coats

  • Stick clothing labels on the care label, not straight onto the fabric.
  • Wash at up to 40°C, inside out where you can.
  • Tumble dry on low heat, or line dry.
  • Do not iron over a label, and avoid dry cleaning.
  • Check labels now and then, and replace any that start to lift.

T-shirts and tote bags

  • Wash at up to 40°C, inside out, with similar colours.
  • Do not iron directly on the printed drawing. Iron inside out on a low setting if you need to.
  • Do not bleach. Line dry or tumble dry on low heat.
  • Always follow the care label sewn into the item as well.

If a label does not last

If a label peels or fades well before it should, email us a photo with your order number. See returns and reprints for your rights.