nonwashable

Nonwashable is a care designation applied to items that should not be cleaned by washing with water. It indicates that immersion, laundering, or machine and hand washing could damage the material, finish, or construction. The term is commonly seen on textiles and clothing, but also on some decorative objects, leather goods, coatings, and electronics enclosures that are moisture sensitive.

Reasons for nonwashable include risk of shrinkage or distortion, color bleeding or fading, loss of surface finishes such as glazes or coatings, damage to adhesives or prints, and corrosion or swelling of components. In leather and suede, water can alter texture and stiffness; in coated fabrics, water can compromise the coating’s integrity. Some items with water-sensitive electronics or laminated surfaces are nonwashable to prevent damage.

Cleaning options for nonwashable items typically include professional dry cleaning or spot cleaning with approved methods, or wipe-clean approaches where allowed. For textiles labeled nonwashable, consult the care label for permissible methods such as dry cleaning solvents or other specialized processes. In many cases, maintaining the item’s condition requires avoiding water entirely.

Standards and labeling vary by region but often require clear instructions on care labels. Textual notes like “nonwashable” or pictograms may accompany recommendations such as dry cleaning or spot cleaning. When in doubt, follow the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional cleaning to protect the item.

Examples of items commonly labeled nonwashable include leather and suede garments, certain silk fabrics, many coated or laminated fabrics, fur, ornate beadwork, painted or glazed decorative objects, and some electronics enclosures.