You might be familiar with the smart name labels from Ikast Etikett that you can attach to (children’s) clothes? The name labels are small, soft stickers that you stick onto a label in the clothes. When the name labels are in the clothes, they need to withstand washing in the washing machine. But did you know that name labels also withstand the dishwasher (when they are placed on cups, food containers, etc.)?

This is convenient, so that the name labels can be used on food containers and drink bottles. With young children in the family, you often bring plastic plates, bowls, spoons, and cups on the go. With a name label on the tableware, it’s always easy to recognize what you have with you on trips. When your things are labeled with a name, it’s also easy to put them in the dishwasher at family and friends’ places. Then it’s clean the next time you use it – and you don’t have to worry about whose it is.

How do I use name labels that withstand the dishwasher?

• Wash and dry everything you want to put a name label on, such as a lunchbox or a water bottle.
• Gently take a name label from the sheet without touching the adhesive too much.
• Place the name label on a smooth surface.
• Press the name label firmly onto the lunchbox or drink bottle with a finger.
• Wait at least 24 hours before washing the lunchbox or drink bottle with the name label in the dishwasher.

My colleague Vera has name labels that have been on a lunchbox for over 5 years. So even though the lunchbox goes to daycare and school several times a week – and is washed in the machine – the name label stays in great condition.

What can I use name labels for?

You can use name labels on (almost) EVERYTHING. I have two young children, and we often bring plates, spoons, cups, and bowls when we go on trips or visit family and friends. I’ve put name labels on all the tableware we bring on the go. From spoons to bowls and thermoses. When the kids were very small and eating porridge, I also had name labels on the whisk, which I always brought with me on the go, along with the porridge powder. The name labels help us always recognize our things. With young children, it’s easy to lose focus and put a plate or cup by the sink – and then forget it. With a name on it, it’s easy for others to see who it belongs to and, most importantly, recognize their own.

If you have older children, they probably bring a packed lunch to school. And most children always bring a water bottle to both school and sports activities. With a name on the lunchbox and water bottle, you help your child recognize their things – and they can always find their things in the fridge.

Laminated sticker

If you have drink bottles or lunchboxes that are exposed to a bit more than usual, you can consider using a laminated sticker. Unlike the name labels, the stickers have a vinyl surface that is extremely durable. The stickers also withstand the dishwasher, of course.

What things do you put names on? Share your best tips for using name labels with us in the comments.