No More Itchy Tags As Some Retail Companies Reimagine Their Companies

Those itchy tags on the back of your shirt have always been a part of your wardrobe. Maybe you’ve either just decided to deal with them, or took a pair of scissors and not-so-gracefully cut it out of your favorite sweatshirt.

Nothing says uncomfortable fashion more than an itchy neck all day. Some companies are changing the tag system for better and for technology purposes. It seems that much of our daily lives are driven by digital technology. Check your smart phone and you’ll find several apps that you use to simply live in your day-to-day. Apps for your car, your AC and even your washer and dryer make tasks easier. A push for the elimination of tags in clothing happened last year via the American Apparel and Footwear Association.

Instead, they suggest codes that can be scanned or even tiny chips embedded in the clothing item. In Europe, they’re pushing for a “digital product passport,” which similarly will provide information on the environmental sustainability of the product and the chemicals and dyes used. Eventually, Australia will also follow suit.

The digitizing of clothing can also be used to verify authentic clothing, which is what Ralph Lauren is doing with the technology. Awareness of the irritation caused by tags to those with sensory issues has also grown. Initially recognized in the 1970s, research has shown that people with Autism or ADHD are more sensitive to light, sound and touch. In an effort to help ease a concern, many companies are now offering tag-less clothing. Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger and Lands’ End all offer clothing options without tags or buttons.

Removing a tag or purchasing clothing that is tag-less or even seamless is part of caring for your clothing. Washing and drying the clothing per the instructions on the tag is important as well. Separating white clothing from color clothing, washing in the right temperature, and even the spin cycle can all affect the lifespan of your favorite shirt. Consumer Reports has plenty of tips to maintain your items.

However, businesses are also marketing to those who just want to enjoy their clothing with comfort. Features like seamless clothes and magnetic buttons offer ease for those with limited mobility. Printed tags show the same information on the item but without the fuss. Major retailer Target offers an entire line of sensory-friendly items.

You can certainly remove your tags but keep in mind, it may be beneficial to keep them for washing and care purposes or even reselling the item when you outgrow it. The easiest way to remove the tag is to look for the seam connecting the tag to the clothing. If you can see the seam, use a small pair of scissors or a seam remover. Otherwise, a steady hand and a bit of patience will help the removal of the tag.