Ever found yourself staring at a laundry care label, puzzled by a sea of symbols that seem more like hieroglyphics than helpful instructions? You’re not alone. Laundry symbols are a universal language used to communicate the proper care and maintenance of our garments but deciphering them can sometimes feel like solving a riddle. Fear not! In this guide, we’ll break down the most common laundry symbols and what they mean, empowering you to conquer your laundry with confidence.
Washing Symbols
The washing symbols indicate the recommended washing temperature and cycle for your garment.
A tub of water symbolizes washing. The number inside indicates the maximum water temperature, with one dot representing 30°C, two dots representing 40°C, and so on.
A hand in the tub symbolizes hand wash only.
A tub with a cross through it indicates that the garment should not be washed and is likely dry clean only.
Bleaching Symbols
The bleaching symbols inform you whether bleach can be used on your garment and what type (chlorine or non-chlorine).
A triangle symbolizes bleaching. An empty triangle indicates that chlorine bleach can be used, while a triangle with lines underneath indicates non-chlorine bleach.
A triangle with a cross through it means that bleach should not be used.
Drying Symbols
The drying symbols indicate the recommended drying method for your garment.
A square symbolizes drying. A circle inside the square indicates tumble drying, with the number of dots indicating the heat level.
A square with a horizontal line through the middle indicates flat drying.
A square with a vertical line through the middle indicates drip drying.
A square with a cross through it means that the garment should not be dried in a dryer.
Ironing Symbols
The ironing symbols inform you of the appropriate ironing temperature for your garment.
A clothes iron symbolizes ironing. The number inside indicates the maximum ironing temperature, with one dot representing low heat, two dots representing medium heat, and three dots representing high heat.
An iron with a cross through it means that the garment should not be ironed.
Dry Cleaning Symbols
The dry cleaning symbols indicate whether your garment should be dry cleaned and what type of solvent to use.
A circle symbolizes dry cleaning. The letter inside indicates the type of solvent to use (P for perchloroethylene, F for hydrocarbon solvent, and W for water).
A circle with a cross through it means that the garment should not be dry cleaned.
Understanding laundry symbols is the key to properly caring for your garments and ensuring they look their best for years to come. If in doubt, bring your items in to the team at Kapiti Dry Cleaning and Laundry Services and we’ll take care of them for you. Easy as!