Do you know what all laundry symbols mean?

Each garment comes with a tag stitched inside detailing its proper laundering instructions. While we might be familiar with many of these symbols, occasionally, there are ones that leave us puzzled. Our aim is to decode these laundry symbols, ensuring you never face confusion again.

We have compiled a list.

History

Let’s start with a brief historical overview. During the late 1950s, a European organization dedicated to textile care labeling emerged. Consequently, laundry symbols in Europe tend to be uniform or closely resemble one another. Due to globalization, these symbols have become international, appearing consistently across most countries. Nevertheless, there remains uncertainty regarding their precise interpretations. But fret not, we’re here to clarify.

Washing machine

This symbol means that you can wash the clothing item in your washing machine.

The number in the bucket means the maximum temperature. Don’t wash it any hotter, as it might shrink or lose its colour.

The line under the bucket means you have to use a slow spin cycle. The item is probably fragile and can’t withstand a fast cycle. Make sure the programme on your washing machine is slow!

The hand in the bucket means you can only wash the clothing manually or, if your washing machine has this feature, on the hand wash setting in your machine.

If the bucket is crossed out, it means you cannot wash the clothing item. Bring it to a dry cleaner’s to have it professionally cleaned or steam it at home.

Dryer

The symbol that looks like a pig’s snout means you can dry your clothing in the dryer on a normal spin cycle.

This symbol with only one dot means you can put it in the dryer, but only on low heat. Also, make sure the programme is short!

As the cross indicates, this means you cannot put this item in the dryer. Let it dry on a drying rack or a clothes line.

Ironing

One dot in the iron means you can iron the item, but the settings cannot be warmer than 110 degrees Celcius.

Two dots mean that the maximum temperature is 150 degrees Celcius.

Three dots indicate a maximum temperature of 200 degrees Celcius.

Bleach

A triangle containing the letters ‘CI’ or ‘CL’ means you can bleach the item with chlorine

A crossed out triangle means stay away with bleach!