The short version
Five symbols you must know: the wash tub (washing and temperature), the triangle (bleaching), the square (drying), the iron (ironing) and the circle (dry cleaning). A line under the symbol means: treat more gently.
The care label is a small manual for every garment. Knowing the five basic symbols saves you shrunken jumpers, faded colours and ruined favourites. It is easier than it looks.
The five basic symbols
Wash tub
The number in the tub is the maximum temperature. A hand means hand wash, a crossed-out tub: do not wash at all.
Triangle (bleaching)
Empty triangle: bleaching allowed. Crossed out: do not bleach. Two lines in the triangle: oxygen bleach only, no chlorine.
Square (drying)
Circle in the square: tumble dryer allowed, dots show the temperature. Crossed out: no tumble dryer. Lines stand for flat or line drying.
Iron
The dots show the temperature: one dot low, three dots hot. Crossed out: do not iron.
Circle (cleaning)
The circle is about professional dry cleaning, the letters are a hint for the cleaner. Crossed out: do not dry clean.
When in doubt, cooler and gentler
If a label is missing or unclear, choose the cooler temperature and a gentle programme. That protects shape and colour, barely costs cleaning power and saves favourites.
Handy alongside
What to look for:
- A mild delicates detergent for sensitive textiles
- Mesh laundry bags for delicates and bras
- Oxygen bleach only where the label allows it
Frequently asked
What does the line under the wash symbol mean?
What does a crossed-out symbol mean?
What do the dots in the iron mean?
Fresh laundry, less chemistry
From the care label to homemade detergent: simple and honest.
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