Decode washing machine symbols and laundry signs with our ultimate guide

Washing symbols may seem like a foreign language, but they hold the key to proper laundry care. These symbols, also known as washing instructions symbols or laundry signs, communicate specific instructions for washing, drying, ironing, and more. By following these symbols, you can keep garments in mint condition and extend clothing lifespan. They provide essential information about how you are meant to handle your garments, from the appropriate water temperature and the recommended washing cycle to special care instructions and tumble dryer guidance.  

As well as using the right laundry products, understanding the meaning behind common washing symbols is essential. It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with these washing label symbols, so you can ensure your clothes are treated correctly and maintain their quality for longer.  

Temperature symbols

These laundry signs look like a basin filled with water, which represents the maximum temperature for washing your clothes. A single line under the basin indicates that cold water should be used; two lines suggest warm water; and three lines indicate hot water. Washing your clothes in colder water uses less energy than hot washes, so following these guidelines not only prevents your clothes from shrinking or losing their vibrancy, but it’s also better for the planet, too! 

Washing circle symbols

These symbols often depict a tub with or without water, along with a number inside. The number represents the recommended intensity or duration of the washing cycle. For example, a symbol with a hand in the tub signifies that the garment should only be hand-washed, while a symbol with a gentle cycle indicates that a delicate or low-speed cycle should be used. Following these washing machine symbols correctly will help to prevent damage to your clothes during the washing process. These water temperature instructions are very helpful when washing stained garments with stain removers.  

Special care instructions

These symbols may include a triangle, circle or square, often accompanied by additional icons or letters. The triangle symbolises that the garment can be bleached; the circle represents that the item can be tumble dried; and the square indicates that the garment can be ironed. Paying attention to these symbols will help you to avoid accidental damage to your clothes. 

Now that we've covered the basics of washing machine symbols, let's look at tumble dryer symbols. These are often represented by a circle and provide important instructions for drying your clothes. Understanding them is crucial to preventing shrinkage or damage to your garments. 

The tumble dryer symbol can have several variations, each indicating a different drying method. For example, a symbol with a single dot inside the circle signifies a low-heat setting, suitable for delicate fabrics. On the other hand, a symbol with two dots indicates a higher heat setting, suitable for sturdier fabrics. There may also be additional icons or letters alongside the circle, which are special drying programs or avoiding certain settings.  

Understanding laundry symbols for ironing

The symbols associated with ironing typically feature an iron, sometimes with additional icons or dots. The number of dots inside the iron symbol represents the appropriate heat setting. For example, one dot suggests a low heat setting for delicate fabrics, while three dots indicate a high heat setting for sturdier materials. It's important to adjust your iron's temperature accordingly to avoid scorching your clothes. 

Some ironing symbols may have additional icons or letters alongside the iron. These provide specific instructions, such as using steam or ironing without steam. Following these instructions will help you achieve perfectly pressed clothes without causing any harm. 

Demystifying bleaching symbols

Bleach is a traditional method for removing stains and whitening garments. If misused or used in coloured clothes, it can cause damage. One common symbol related to bleaching is a triangle, which indicates that the garment can be safely bleached. If a garment does not have the triangle symbol, it's best to avoid using bleach altogether in order to prevent damage. 

If you prefer safer and more versatile laundry solutions for different types of garments, then there are alternatives to using bleach. Safe bleach products, like Vanish Crystal White Powder, can be used as a gentler alternative. This will help to remove stains and whiten clothes without the risks of chlorine bleach. Successful results are not guaranteed. Always check labels and follow product instructions. 

Dry cleaning symbols

These often feature a circle, signifying that the garment should not be washed in a regular washing machine and instead requires specialised dry cleaning methods. It's important to pay attention to these symbols, as improper cleaning can lead to damage or shrinkage of delicate fabrics. 

To identify garments that are suitable for home dry cleaning methods, look for symbols that indicate “dry clean at home” or “dry clean only”. These symbols suggest that you can safely clean the garment using dry cleaning kits or products available for home use. Following the instructions provided by the manufacturer will help you maintain the quality of your clothes while saving time and money. 

In addition to the commonly encountered washing symbols, there are other laundry signs that you may encounter. These symbols provide specific instructions for special care and maintenance of garments. 

Hand washing symbol

This looks like a hand inside a basin of water and indicates that the garment should be hand-washed instead of machine-washed. Hand washing is often recommended for delicate fabrics or items with intricate detailing that may be damaged in a washing machine. 

Line drying symbol

This symbol depicts a horizontal line with a curved top and indicates that the garment should be dried by hanging it on a clothesline instead of using a tumble dryer. Line drying is a gentle method that helps prevent shrinkage and maintains the shape of the garment. 

Special care instructions

There are symbols that represent special care instructions, such as symbols for dry flat, do not wring, or do not dry in direct sunlight. Understanding these symbols ensures that you can properly care for your garments and extend their lifespan. 

Conclusion

Now that you have this handy guide to help you understand the world of washing machine symbols and more, you can reference it regularly until you become more familiar with them. In no time, you’ll be able to recognise all the symbols automatically and continue to effectively care for your clothes.