99 PER CENT OF BRITS CANNOT RECOGNISE COMMON GARMENT CARE SYMBOLS, DESPITE 9 IN 10 OWNING A WASHING MACHINE

Corporate 02/12/2015

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  • When asked to identify a selection of common garment care symbols, less than one per cent of Brits knew them all
  • 29 per cent of respondents couldn’t identify any symbols correctly
  • Almost half of Brits admit to not checking garment care label instructions
  • Not even one in 10 respondents could identify the symbol for ‘normal tumble dry’
  • On average an individual will damage £3,969 worth of garments in the wash over their lifetime

 

As LG Electronics (LG) returns as the Official Garment Care Supplier at London Fashion Week this February, the brand is highlighting the Nation’s struggle to properly care for its wardrobes. Despite more than 94 per cent of Brits now owning a washing machine, almost half of those asked admitted to not separating their laundry according to garment care instructions and more than 60 per cent of respondents admitted to frequently defaulting to ‘Quick Wash’ functions to complete their laundry. It’s not surprising then that Brits are ruining at least one garment each a year, regardless of having more advanced wash technology at our disposal than ever before.

 

Those aged 55 and over were the best at recognising garment care symbols, whilst 25 – 34 year olds performed the worst recognising even fewer instructions than 18 – 24 year olds. This impressive understanding from those who grew up in the 50s and 60s could be attributed to the fact that clothing was much more of a commodity during that time and there was a necessity for people to really care for what they wear, versus today’s undeniable trend for fast fashion. With the right washing cycles, and careful attention paid to garment care instructions, clothes can last longer and look better; something that these statistics suggest the younger generation could stand to learn.

 

Men fell behind women when tasked to recognise washing symbols, performing worst on the ironing visual – which may come as no surprise to some households. However, despite their weaker knowledge of the symbols, men are less likely to automatically switch to ‘Quick Wash’ programmes than women, opting for more specialised wash cycles when doing the laundry.

 

Andy Mackay, UK Commercial Director at LG Electronics comments: “LG recognises the increasing consumer demand for technology features that provide efficiency. With people living ever-busier lives, smart features can really assist in helping to cut the time spent on household chores and improve our performance too. That’s why LG continually strives to provide consumers with innovative technologies that allow for a more efficient and smarter lifestyles, such as Turbowash™ and NFC technology.”

 

LG understands the importance of advanced garment care, with washing machines built around providing a wash that keeps clothes looking better for longer. Some of LG’s leading technologies to support caring for what we wear, include:

LG’s 6 Motion Direct Drive delivers a range of spins speeds and drum motions that can match the needs of almost all domestic washing. From vigorous spins to shift heavy dirt, to delicate rotations that simulate careful hand-washing, the wash performance of the machine is greatly improved, giving perfect results every time.

Turbowash offers an alternative to standard ‘quick washes’ found in most machines, delivering a more thorough wash but still reducing the wash cycle time. Thanks to the innovative built-in jet spray, LG’s machines with Turbowash technology can deliver a full wash in less than an hour, saving time, water and energy, without damaging clothes.

NFC technology gives users an unprecedented level of control over  their washing: simply tap a compatible smartphone against the machine to download diagnostic information, or upload new wash cycles tailored specifically to individual garments and materials, all handled through the intuitive LG Smart Laundry App.

 

Notes to editors:

Research base of 2,000 UK adults - full details available on request.

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About LG Electronics, Inc.

LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing 82,000 people working in 119 locations around the world. With 2013 global sales of USD 53.10 billion (KRW 58.14 trillion), LG comprises five business units ― Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, Air Conditioning & Energy Solution and Vehicle Components ― and is one of the world’s leading producers of flat panel TVs, mobile devices, air conditioners, washing machines and refrigerators. LG Electronics is a 2014 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year. For more news and information on LG Electronics, please visit www.LGnewsroom.com.

 

About LG Electronics Home Appliance Company

The LG Electronics Home Appliance Company is a global leader in the home appliance industry, providing thoughtfully designed products that combine excellent performance with enhanced user convenience. The company’s smart appliances offer consumers impressive energy and time savings along with greater health benefits. LG’s innovative products, including refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, cooking appliances, vacuum cleaners, built-in appliances, and healthcare products are designed to resonate with consumers around the world. For more information, please visit www.LG.com/uk/appliances.

 

Media Contacts:

Alison Metcalfe

LG-One

lgukpress@lg-one.com

0207 413 3000