Laundry Care Symbols Explained: A Complete Guide

Tap a symbol to see what it means.

Washtub Symbol (Machine/Hand Wash)

A basin filled with water; the number shown inside indicates the maximum safe washing temperature (°C). A hand icon inside means the item must be hand-washed only.

Washtub With an X

Means the fabric cannot be washed with water at all — an alternative method such as dry cleaning must be used instead.

Triangle Symbol (Bleach)

An empty triangle means bleach may be used; a triangle with an X means bleach must not be used at all. Two diagonal lines inside the triangle mean only non-chlorine (oxygen-based) bleach is safe to use.

Circle Inside a Square (Tumble Drying)

A circle inside a square indicates whether tumble drying is allowed; the number of dots inside indicates the permitted heat level. An X across it means tumble drying is not allowed.

Vertical Line Inside a Square (Air Drying)

A vertical line inside a square means hang to dry; a horizontal line means the item should be dried lying flat.

Iron Symbol (Ironing)

The number of dots inside the iron symbol (1 to 3) indicates the safe ironing heat level; an X across it means the item should not be ironed at all.

Circle Symbol (Dry Cleaning)

The letter inside the circle (P, F, etc.) signals to a professional cleaner which dry-cleaning solvent is safe to use; a circle with an X means the item cannot be dry-cleaned.

Why It Pays to Know These Symbols

Ignoring care symbols when washing clothes can lead to irreversible damage — shrinking, fading, or warping out of shape. It's especially worth checking the label before washing new or valuable clothing items.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are laundry symbols the same everywhere in the world?

Most countries follow International Organization for Standardization (ISO) guidelines, though some regions have differences — the US, for instance, uses its own separate standard (ASTM).

What should I do if a symbol is unclear?

If you're ever unsure what a symbol means, it's safest to use the most conservative approach (cold hand-wash, dry flat in the shade) or simply ask a professional dry cleaner.