Steps for Removing Clothing Labels

If you don’t like the labels that come pre-attached to your clothing, and you want to attach new, less abrasive labels, you will need to start by removing the old labels. Here are some steps to follow when trying to remove labels, whether they are sewn-in labels, stick-on labels or iron-on clothing labels.

1. Start by thoroughly examining the label and determining what kind of label it is. For example, the process of removing the clothing label will be different if it is a sewn on label, or if it has been ironed on to your garment. Check to see if the label material is papery, if it is sewn on using the same seam that is holding the garment together, etc.

2. Make sure to cut hangtags and labels on new garments, with scissors, instead of yanking them free. This will prevent unwanted holes.

3. If the tag is sewn on, cut it out. You may want to use a seam ripper to remove it, if the tag is sewn on separately, but if it is sewn on using the same seam as the garment, you will need to carefully make many cuts, to successfully free the tag or re-sew the seam if that’s something you feel you can do.

4. Tweeze free the remaining threads that are left behind by the label.

5. Iron on labels are more difficult to remove, but often using a small razor can help. You may also want to consider simply attaching a larger label over the ironed on label, to cover the itchy edges.