How do I read a fabric label?

Reading fabric labels is one of the most important skills you can develop as a conscious consumer. Every garment sold in the United States is required to list its fiber content by percentage, so start by looking at the composition breakdown. Natural fibers like cotton, linen, hemp, silk, wool, and merino will be listed by name, while semi-synthetic fibers derived from natural sources include Tencel (lyocell), modal, and bamboo viscose. Synthetic fibers to watch for include polyester, nylon, spandex (elastane), and acrylic.

Beyond fiber content, labels often include care instructions represented by universal laundry symbols. A triangle means bleaching guidance, a square represents drying instructions, and an iron icon indicates pressing recommendations. Pay attention to country of origin and any third-party certifications such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard), OEKO-TEX, or bluesign, which verify environmental and safety standards.

At ONDU, every product listing includes a clear fabric breakdown so you never have to guess what you are wearing. We highlight the percentage of natural fibers in each garment and flag any synthetic content, making it easy to shop with confidence.