how to use iron-on name labels

Fed up of your belongings getting misplaced? Iron-on name labels are a simple yet super effective way to keep track of all your personal items, from the kids’ school jumpers to granny’s favourite blouse.

So, whether you’re a busy parent with little time to write the kids’ names on every piece of clothing they own, or a uni student who’s terrified of their favourite tote bag being pinched, iron-on labels are the perfect solution. But how do you use them? 

Keep reading as we delve into how to iron on these little lifesavers, as well as how to care for items with them on and how to remove them if needed. Get the iron at the ready, and let’s jump straight in.  

Why use iron-on name labels?

Iron-on name labels aren’t just a way to personalise a t-shirt or school bag - they’re a direct way to let everyone know who any lost items belong to. 

Many parents use iron-on name labels on their children’s school uniforms, sportswear, food tech aprons and nursery wear to ensure that if it gets accidentally taken, it can be returned to their child… meaning no more rooting through the lost property bin! 

But it’s not just children and their parents who can benefit from iron-on name labels - anyone can use them! Iron-on labels are perfect for keeping tabs on where your gym gear is if you’re stripping down to lift weights, or for those with elderly family members whose laundry may be done communally. These small, adhesive pieces of fabric are incredibly useful all around! 

Where would you use iron on labels?

Iron-on labels can be used on all sorts of material apparel, including:

  • T-shirts
  • Trousers
  • Shirts
  • Jumpers
  • Underwear
  • Bags and purses
  • Shoes
  • Aprons 
  • Fabric toys
  • … and so much more!

Benefits of iron-on name labels

There are so many benefits to iron-on labels, beyond just being a name label for your belongings. These wide benefits include:

1. Durability

Iron-on name labels are designed to withstand regular wear and tear, including frequent washing and drying. They adhere firmly to the fabric, making them more durable than stick-on labels, which can peel off over time, or permanent markers which (despite the name suggesting otherwise) can wash away. 

2. Time-saving

Applying iron-on name labels onto clothing and apparel is quick and easy. It only takes a few minutes to iron them onto clothing or other fabric items, saving you a considerable amount of time, compared to sewing labels by hand.

3. Neat and professional appearance

Iron-on name labels provide a clean, professional look - perfect for school uniforms. They are designed to lie flat against the fabric - meaning that they don't stick out or create bulk, which can often happen with sew-on labels.

4. Personalisation options

Many iron-on name labels can not only be customised with the person’s name and other details you wish to include, but they can also be customised with a variety of fonts, colours, and designs. This is particularly useful for your children's clothing, making it easy for them to identify their own belongings.

5. Versatility

Iron-on name labels can be used on a wide range of items, including clothing, backpacks, lunch bags, and even fabric toys. This versatility makes them an excellent choice for labelling all sorts of personal items and ensuring they come back to their owner.

6. Cost-effective

Compared to other types of labels, iron-on name labels are generally more affordable and simple to buy in bulk. They provide a long-lasting solution without the need for replacement, which also makes them a cost-effective choice over time.

7. Secure attachment

Once ironed on, these name labels stay securely attached to the fabric - reducing the risk of loss or a mix-up of items, which is especially useful in environments like schools or nursing homes.

8. Non-irritating

High-quality iron-on name labels are designed to be soft and non-irritating against the skin, making them comfortable to wear even on sensitive skin, sensory issues or for those with allergies or skin disorders.

9. Ease of use

The process of ironing on name labels is simple enough that anyone can do it at home - without the need for special skills or tools. Detailed instructions are usually provided with the labels … or you can check out our helpful step-by-step guide below!

Step-by-step guide to ironing on name labels

To attach iron-on name labels, you need these things to hand: 

  • Iron-on name labels
  • A clean, flat ironing surface
  • A household iron
  • Scissors, if labels need trimming

Preparing to attach your iron-on name labels

Before attaching your iron-on name labels, ensure that all items are clean and dry. Choose an ideal location for the label, such as on the inside collar, waistband or near a tag. Then, arrange all your tags next to their respective items, ensuring the names match the items. 

Step 1: Set up your iron

Firstly, turn on your iron and set it to medium heat, without steam. Do not start until the iron is fully heated.

Step 2: Position the label

Then, cut the label from the strip and peel off the protective backing. Place the label in the desired location, print side up, leaving the top protective covering intact. Trim the labels now, if you feel they are a little too big for the area you’re placing them in. 

Step 3: Iron the label

Next, press the iron onto the label and press it firmly for 15 seconds. DO NOT move the iron around, as this could cause the label to shift. 

Step 4: Check adherence

Finally, allow the label to cool for a few seconds. Carefully check the edges to ensure that the label is fully adhered to the fabric. If needed, reapply the iron for a few more seconds. Once done, remove the front protective cover. 

How to care for items with iron-on name labels

You might be worried that your iron-on name labels are going to come off in the wash. Whilst iron-on name labels are designed to stay put, even with regular washing and drying, we recommend: 

  • Washing your labelled items inside out if possible
  • Using mild detergents
  • Avoiding fabric softener (consider using vinegar rinse instead to naturally soften clothes)
  • Avoiding high heat drying, such as the tumble dryer
  • Ensuring you’ve followed the instructions to a T to make your iron-on labels stay put for many washes to come!

Step-by-step guide to removing iron-on name labels

So how do you remove iron-on name labels? Removal is done in just five easy steps:

What do you need to remove iron-on name labels? 

To start the removal process, have these things prepared: 

  • Household iron
  • A clean, flat ironing surface
  • A thin pressing cloth or parchment paper
  • A pair of tweezers
  • Adhesive remover and cotton swabs or a soft cloth (optional, for sticky residue)

Step 1: Heat the iron

Firstly, you need to heat your iron to medium heat, without steam. Allow the iron to heat fully before using. 

Step 2: Protect the fabric

Then, lay your fabric down flat on your ironing surface and place the pressing cloth or parchment paper over the label. This will protect both the label and the fabric from direct heat. 

Step 3: Apply heat

Next, press your heated iron onto the covered label for about 15 seconds to soften the adhesive. Be careful not to hold too long and overheat, as this could damage the fabric.

Step 4: Lift the label

Immediately afterwards, use your tweezers to gently lift the edge of the label. If the label doesn't lift easily, reapply heat for a few more seconds and then try again. Once ready, slowly peel off the label.

Step 5: Remove residual adhesive

Finally, if there is any sticky residue left behind on the fabric, apply a small amount of adhesive remover to a cotton swab or soft cloth. Gently rub the adhesive remover on the residue until it is completely removed. Wash the item, according to its care instructions, to remove any remaining adhesive remover.

Frequently asked questions about iron-on name labels 

Are iron-on name labels any good?

Yes, iron-on name labels are a fantastic solution to labelling and naming your fabric personal items. They are super convenient, easy to use, and designed to stay much longer than other alternatives. 

Do iron-on name labels stay on?

Yes, iron-on name labels are designed with an adhesive backing, activated with heat, to stay onto your fabric items. They don’t easily come off in the wash, or risk falling off during everyday use, if attached properly. 

Is iron-on better than vinyl?

Yes, iron-on is considered to be much better than vinyl. Vinyl fabric prints often peel away with everyday use and are known to start coming off in the wash. Iron-on labels, on the other hand, are designed to prevent this. 

How long do iron-on labels last?

Iron-on name labels are designed to last the duration of the item - knowing that we often replace our items or our children grow out of their clothing. As a rule of thumb, with proper attachment and maintenance, iron-on name labels can last you around 2 to 3 years before needing to be replaced.

Can you sew on iron-on labels?

Iron-on name labels are designed to be thinner and less bulky than sew-on labels. As such, we wouldn’t recommend sewing them on. Plus, why would you need to? The adhesive backing is just as secure, if not more, than sew-on labels! 

Why won't my iron-on labels stick?

A common issue many have with iron-on labels not sticking is that the temperature of their iron is too low. If you’re worried about setting your iron too high, practice attaching an iron-on label to a spare piece of fabric beforehand and find the perfect temperature for you. We recommend setting your iron to medium heat and allowing it to fully heat before using. 

Do iron on labels come off in the wash?

No, iron-on name labels are designed to go in the wash! However, if you’re concerned, we recommend washing and drying on a low heat, using mild detergent and avoiding using fabric softener. 

Can you use a hair straightener to iron-on labels?

In theory, yes. Hair straighteners can be used to attach iron-on labels, though they can be quite fiddly to use. You also may worry about using too high of a temperature. Irons are definitely the ideal tool to use, but straighteners may work if you’re in a pinch. 

 

 

Ready to start labelling? Order your iron-on name labels online, or head into a Max Spielmann shop, today!