Care Labels Guide

Care Labels Guide

We’ve all been there. You buy a beautiful new shirt, sweater, or pair of pants, and then you look at the care label and it’s a complete mystery! Those tiny symbols can seem like a foreign language, leaving you unsure how to properly clean your clothes and avoid ruining them. This comprehensive guide will help you decipher the meaning behind those cryptic symbols and keep your clothes looking their best for longer.

*Cover image by macrovector via Freepik. 

Understanding the Basic Laundry Symbols

Most care labels use a standardized set of symbols. While minor variations exist, understanding the basics will cover most scenarios. Here's a breakdown of common symbols you'll encounter:

Washing Symbols

• Wash Tub with a Number: This indicates the maximum water temperature in degrees Celsius. For example, a 30 indicates a cold or cool wash (30°C).
• Wash Tub with One Line Underneath: Gentle or delicate wash cycle.
• Wash Tub with Two Lines Underneath: Extra gentle wash cycle.
• Wash Tub with a Hand Inside: Hand wash only.
• Wash Tub with a Cross Through It: Do not wash.

Bleaching Symbols

• Triangle: Bleach is allowed.
• Triangle with a Cross Through It: Do not bleach.

Drying Symbols

• Square with a Circle Inside: Tumble dry is allowed.
• Square with One Dot Inside: Tumble dry at low temperature.
• Square with Two Dots Inside: Tumble dry at medium temperature.
• Square with Three Dots Inside: Tumble dry at high temperature.
• Square with a Cross Through It: Do not tumble dry.
• Square with a Line Underneath: Line dry.
• Square with a Line Underneath and a Vertical Line: Line dry in the shade.
• Square with a Horizontal Line: Lay flat to dry.

Ironing Symbols

• Iron: Ironing is allowed.
• Iron with One Dot: Iron at low temperature.
• Iron with Two Dots: Iron at medium temperature.
• Iron with Three Dots: Iron at high temperature.
• Iron with a Cross Through It: Do not iron.

Dry Cleaning Symbols

• Circle: Dry cleaning is allowed.
• Circle with a Letter: Indicates the specific dry cleaning solvent to be used (e.g., P for perchloroethylene, F for hydrocarbons).
• Circle with a Cross Through It: Do not dry clean.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Care Instructions

While the symbols are essential, sometimes there's additional text on the label providing further clarification or specific instructions. Always read this carefully, as it could include crucial details about:

• Specific fabric care: Instructions specific to the type of fabric (e.g., silk, wool, linen).
• Pre-treatment: Guidance on pre-treating stains before washing.
• Drying techniques: Additional recommendations on how best to dry the garment.

Troubleshooting Common Care Label Challenges

What if I don’t understand a symbol? If you’re ever unsure about a particular symbol, err on the side of caution. A gentle hand wash or air drying is always a safer option than potentially damaging the garment.

My care label is faded or missing. If your care label is damaged or missing, try searching online for information specific to the garment’s fabric composition. This can give you a good idea of appropriate care methods.

Conclusion: Mastering Your Clothes’ Care

Learning to understand clothing care labels is key to keeping your clothes looking great and lasting longer. With this guide, you’re now equipped to tackle any care label, ensuring your favorite garments remain a part of your wardrobe for years to come. Remember to always check the labels before washing or cleaning your clothes!