Standard Washing Procedures for Metal Buttons with Protective Measures

Standard Washing Procedures for Metal Buttons with Protective Measures

1. Pre-Wash Inspection   

   - Verify button attachment security to prevent detachment during washing.   

   - Identify button material (e.g., brass, zinc alloy, stainless steel); certain materials may require anti-corrosion treatment.   

2. Classification & Protection   

   - Separate Bagging/Wrapping:   

     Wrap buttons with soft fabric (e.g., cotton, non-woven) secured by rubber bands/cloth strips, or use dedicated button-protection mesh bags (recommended for industrial washing).   

   - Segregated Washing:   

     Separate garments with metal buttons from items containing sharp elements (zippers, hard embellishments) to minimize abrasion.   

3. Washing Parameters   

   - Water Temperature: ≤40°C (104°F) (high temperatures accelerate metal oxidation or coating degradation).   

   - Cycle Selection: Use "Delicate/Hand Wash" mode to reduce mechanical friction.   

   - Detergent: Neutral pH detergent (6-8 range); avoid acidic/alkaline agents to prevent metal corrosion.   

   - Spin Cycle: Low-speed dehydration (≤600 RPM) to mitigate centrifugal force impact.   

4. Drying & Post-Processing   

   - Air-dry naturally; avoid tumble-drying to prevent thermal deformation or coating peeling.   

   - Inspect button surfaces for scratches/rust after removing protective wraps; apply dry cloth polishing if necessary.   

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### Reference Standards & Guidelines   

1. ISO 3758:2012   

   *Textiles—Care labelling code using symbols* (defines washing symbols and temperature limits).   

2. AATCC TM150-2012   

   *Durability of Attachments in Garments Through Repeated Home Laundering* (validates protective measures).   

3. Industry Best Practices   

   - Button protection bags compliant with QB/T 5201-2017 (China's *General Technical Requirements for Garment Accessories*).   

   - Luxury brand care guidelines (e.g., Levi's recommends turning garments inside out to protect metal buttons).   

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### Critical Notes   

- Extra precautions required for plated/antique-finished buttons to avoid coating wear.   

- Industrial machines should add buffer layers (e.g., towels lining the drum).   

- Apply clear nail polish as an anti-oxidation coating for long-term storage.   

For certified industry standards, consult textile associations (e.g., ITA, IAF) or testing agencies (e.g., SGS, Intertek).   

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