# item.guide
Side-by-Side Comparison Trims & Care

Laundry Symbols vs. Zippers

Comparing 2 standards across 12 specifications. 12 key differences identified.

Comparing:
Laundry Symbols
Zippers

International garment care symbols governed by ISO 3758 (GINETEX) and ASTM D5489 standardize washing, bleaching, drying, ironing, and professional cleaning instructions on garment tags. The system uses five core geometric shapes modified by temperature dots, cycle bars, and cross-out warnings.

View full Laundry Symbols spec sheet →

Zipper sizing standards under ASTM D2061 and ISO 28219 classify zippers by the physical width of the closed interlocking teeth (chain) in millimeters. Designated as #3 (4.5 mm), #5 (6.0 mm), #8 (7.5 mm), and #10 (10.0 mm), zipper chains are built in Nylon Coil, Molded Vislon Plastic, and Clamped Metal styles.

View full Zippers spec sheet →

Specification Comparison Table

12 Parameters
Parameter / Spec
Governing Standards
ISO 3758 / GINETEX / ASTM D5489 / FTC Care Labeling Rule ASTM D2061 / ISO 28219 / BS 3084
The 5 Core Symbols
Washtub (Washing) | Triangle (Bleach) | Square (Drying) | Iron (Ironing) | Circle (Dry Clean)
Temperature Dots Rule
1 Dot = Low (30°C/110°C) | 2 Dots = Med (40°C/150°C) | 3 Dots = High (50°C/200°C)
Mechanical Action Bars
No bar = Normal cycle | 1 Bar = Permanent Press/Synthetic | 2 Bars = Gentle/Wool
Hand in Tub Symbol
Hand wash only (maximum 40°C / 105°F, no machine agitation)
Cross-Out 'X' Modifier
Never perform the indicated operation (e.g., Do Not Tumble Dry, Do Not Iron)
#3 Zipper Chain Width
4.0 to 4.5 mm (0.16–0.18") | Dresses, interior pockets, cushion covers
#5 Zipper Chain Width
5.8 to 6.0 mm (0.23–0.24") | Universal jacket front, jeans, hoodies, backpacks
#8 Zipper Chain Width
7.5 to 8.0 mm (0.30–0.31") | Heavy winter parkas, motorcycle jackets, duffels
#10 Zipper Chain Width
10.0 to 10.5 mm (0.39–0.41") | Heavy luggage, tents, marine boat canvas
Chain Constructions
Nylon Spiral Coil (CFC) | Molded Vislon Plastic (POM) | Clamped Metal Teeth (M)
Slider Lock Mechanisms
Auto-Lock (clothing) | Non-Lock (luggage) | Pin-Lock | Reversible