Sew in Name Labels vs Iron on Name Tapes
If you’ve ever stood by the school lost property box, desperately searching for a jumper that looks just like every other one, you’ll know the value of good name labels. It can be school uniforms, PE kits, water bottles, bags… whatever it is, labelling your child’s belongings is one of those small jobs that saves a whole lot of stress down the line.
There are a few ways to go about it, but two of the most common are sew in name labels and iron on name tapes. Both aim to do the same thing - keep your child’s things out of the lost and found pile - but they go about it quite differently.
In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at each option. And while we’ll be fair about the pros and cons, let’s be honest: when you're juggling school runs, packed lunches and laundry mountains, easy and reliable tends to win the day!
Why do people choose sew in name labels?
Sew in name labels have been around for generations. These are the classic fabric tags you stitch directly into your child’s clothing (usually at the collar or waistband) using a needle and thread. For many parents, especially those who remember their own school days, they’re the familiar go-to.
And to be fair, there are a few reasons why sew in labels have stuck around. They’re long-lasting, hard-wearing, and once they’re in, they’re not going anywhere. Many schools have traditionally recommended them, and there’s a certain sense of “this is just how it’s done” that can make them feel like the safe choice.
But let’s be honest - they’re not the easiest option. They take time, patience, and a steady hand with a needle. Not ideal when you’ve got a uniform to sort the night before term starts. If the label isn’t sewn in properly, it can end up scratchy or bunched, and replacing them quickly isn’t exactly straightforward. For today’s busy families, that’s a lot of faff for something that could be much simpler.
Why choose iron on name labels instead of sew in name labels?
Iron on name labels do exactly what they say on the tin - they’re labels that you apply to clothing using a standard household iron. No needle and thread needed. Just a bit of heat, a few seconds of pressure, and you’re good to go.
These labels have become increasingly popular with parents who need something quick, simple and effective. One of the biggest plus points has to be speed. You can label an entire school uniform in minutes - perfect for last-minute Sunday night scrambles or surprise non-uniform days!
When applied correctly, iron on name labels are seriously durable. They bond directly to the fabric, hold strong through wash after wash (our iron on name tags can be washed up to 40°C!), and won’t peel off mid-term. They also sit flat against clothing, so there’s no scratching or irritation - just soft, smooth, and barely noticeable.
Of course, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. You do need to follow the instructions carefully to get the best result; it’s not complicated, but a little care goes a long way. As well as that, like sew in labels, iron ons are designed for fabric meaning they’re only useful for clothing rather than items like water bottles or lunchboxes. The good news is that for those kinds of things, we offer name stickers which are a brilliant companion - quick to apply and just as reliable, with no ironing or sewing in sight. You can even still use them as name labels for clothes if you prefer!
Still, for most school and nursery gear, iron on labels offer a hassle-free solution that saves time and keeps things firmly in their place.
So what’s right for you?
Trying to decide between iron on and sew in name labels? Here’s a quick look at how they stack up on the things that matter most to busy families.
Sew In Name Labels
Tried and tested, but not always the easiest option when time is tight.
Application time: Slower and more hands-on, requiring time, precision and sewing tools.
Durability: Very durable when sewn properly, but may come loose if stitching fails.
Ease of Use: Requires a bit of skill and patience, which not everyone has (or wants to find).
Comfort: Can feel scratchy or bulky if not sewn in flat.
Flexibility: Tricky to remove or replace quickly, especially if you’re handing down clothes.
Iron On Name Labels
A modern solution designed to fit into busy family routines with minimal fuss.
Application time: Fast and simple - most labels take just seconds to apply with an iron.
Durability: Strong adhesive means labels stay put through washing and wear.
Ease of Use: No sewing required - just heat, pressure, and you’re done.
Comfort: Lays flat against fabric, so no itching or irritation.
Flexibility: Easy to replace or update labels as needed - especially handy for growing kids or shared items.
In the end, both types can do the job; but when your to-do list is already a mile long, a label that’s quick, comfy and reliable can make all the difference.
What works best when?
Different families have different routines - and sometimes, the right label depends on the moment.
For nursery, where outfits change almost daily and everything needs a name on it, speed is everything. Iron on labels are a real lifesaver here - you can label a whole week’s worth of clothes in minutes, and be confident they’ll survive through countless washes, and messy play.
When it comes to school uniforms, it’s more of the same. You want something that’ll last the term (and beyond), but without turning into a weekend project. Iron on labels offer the best of both worlds; durable, easy to apply, and fuss-free.
There are still a few parents who prefer sew in labels - sometimes it’s simply down to habit or a sense of tradition. And while it’s rare, certain garments or items with delicate or heat-sensitive fabrics might not be suitable for ironing, making sew in a more suitable option in those cases.
But for most families, juggling school runs, after-school clubs and everything in between, convenience tends to win. And that’s exactly where iron on labels shine - practical, efficient, and made to keep up with everyday life!
Why Tiger Tags Recommends Iron On Name Labels
At Tiger Tags, we’ve been helping families keep track of their children’s belongings for over 17 years - and in that time, we’ve seen just how much difference a good name label can make.
That’s why we specialise in high-quality iron on name labels. They’re designed with real family life in mind - quick to apply, built to last, and comfortable for kids to wear all day long. Whether it’s the school jumper that never makes it home or the PE top that’s always going missing, our labels are made to stay put through washes, wears, and all the chaos in between.
We know that parents need things that work - no drama or fuss. So if you’re looking for a practical, reliable and fun way to keep track of clothes and avoid the lost property box, our iron on name tapes are a choice you can feel good about.
So, what’s the verdict?
Both sew in and iron on labels have their place - one’s a bit more traditional, the other a whole lot more convenient. If you’ve got the time (and the sewing kit), sew ins can do the job. But for most of us? Less faff usually wins.
Iron on name labels are quick, comfy, and built to last, with no stitching or stress. If that sounds like the kind of help you need, our customisable name tags are ready and waiting to make your life just that little bit easier.