Before washing, drying or ironing an item of clothing, it is a good idea to read the label. Doing so can help you avoid creating felted jumpers, turning formerly white sheets pink, or shrinking trousers into shorts.
Knowing the meaning of the symbols on the clothing labels helps to avoid unwanted results, even if the labels are not always clear and easy to understand. Before we start, a general rule: if the item is made up of more than one fabric, you should follow the instructions that apply to the most delicate part.
#1 Wash labels
Machine wash. Normal.
Machine wash. Temperature 30°.
Do not wring.
Machine wash. Medium.
Machine wash. Temperature 40°.
Bleach when needed.
Machine wash. Gentle.
Machine wash. Temperature 60°.
Non-chlorine bleach when needed.
Do not wash.
Hand wash.
Do not bleach.
#2 Drying labels
Tumble dry.
Dry outside.
Dry in the shade.
Tumble dry. Low temperature.
Line dry.
Line dry in the shade.
Tumble dry. Normal temperature.
Dry flat.
Dry flat in shade.
Do not tumble dry.
Drip dry.
Drip dry in shade.
#3 Ironing labels
Iron at any temperature, dry or steam.
Do not steam.
Do not iron.
Ironlow heat (synthetic, acrylic, nylon, polyester).
Ironmedium heat (wool, silk).
Iron high heat (cotton, linen).
Do you have some free space near your washing machine? Print out our guide and hang it on the wall!
