Laundry Care Label Instructions by Symbols

Laundering
05/30/2019 12:00am 6 minute read

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Many care labels on textiles contains symbols to show how to best launder and take care of the product. These care labels are found on most textiles including towels and linens. Getting the temperature and wash cycle right is important for seeing great laundry results, and even prevent damage to your textiles.

Here is an example of a care label and the symbols used to explain how to launder the textile.

If you want to use bleach, you will want to review the label to see if there is a bleach symbol, usually a triangle, or more importantly a do not bleach symbol, usually a triangle crossed out. Recognizing these symbols can save your textiles from getting permanently damaged.

In the above example, you can use the chart below to determine that this should be washed in warm water, dried using medium heat, and use a non-chlorine bleach.

What do the laundry symbols mean?

Here is a quick guide to the most common Laundry Care Label Instructions by Symbols

The Laundry Care Label is the international symbol for care instructions on clothing. It consists of a square with a circle inside. The number inside the circle corresponds to the maximum water temperature, in degrees Celsius, that the garment can be washed at. The outer square indicates whether the item can be bleached (a triangle), ironed (horizontal lines), dry cleaned (an x), or tumble dried (circles). The Laundry Care Label is usually accompanied by other symbols that provide more specific instructions, such as a triangle for bleaching or a steam iron symbol for steam ironing.

So next time you go to do your laundry, you’ll know exactly what those symbols mean!

Laundry Tips to Keep your Clothes Looking New

Keeping your clothes looking fresh and new for as long as possible requires a combination of proper laundering techniques, storage practices, and preventive measures. By following a few simple tips, you can extend the lifespan of your garments, preserve their color and texture, and maintain their overall appearance. Here are some tips to keep your clothes looking new for as long as possible:

Before washing any item of clothing, towels, or sheets, always check the care label for specific instructions regarding washing, drying, and ironing. Different fabrics and garments may require different treatment, so following these guidelines will help prevent damage and maintain the integrity of the fabric.

Sort Clothes by Color and Fabric: Sort your laundry into separate piles based on color (lights, darks, and colors) and fabric type (delicates, cotton, synthetics, etc.). Washing similar items together helps prevent color bleeding and ensures that each garment receives the appropriate care.
Use the Right Detergent: Choose a laundry detergent that is suitable for your clothing and water type. For delicate fabrics, use a gentle or mild detergent, while heavily soiled items may require a stronger detergent or pre-treatment. Avoid using too much detergent, as excess soap residue can dull colors and leave clothes feeling stiff.
Wash in Cold Water: Whenever possible, wash your clothes in cold water. Cold water is gentler on fabrics, helps preserve colors, and prevents shrinkage. It also saves energy compared to hot water washing, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Turn Clothes Inside Out: To minimize friction and prevent excessive wear on the outer surface of your clothes, turn them inside out before washing. This practice helps preserve colors and prints, especially on garments with delicate embellishments or decorations.
Use a Gentle Cycle: When washing delicate or lightly soiled items, opt for a gentle cycle to minimize agitation and reduce the risk of damage. For heavily soiled items, choose a more vigorous cycle, but always refer to the care label for guidance.
Avoid Overloading the Washing Machine: Overloading the washing machine can prevent clothes from getting properly cleaned and rinsed. It can also cause excessive wrinkling and wear and tear. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for load size to ensure optimal washing results.
Air Dry Whenever Possible: Whenever possible, air dry your clothes instead of using a dryer. Hanging garments to dry helps preserve their shape, prevents shrinkage, and reduces energy consumption. If you must use a dryer, select a low or medium heat setting and remove clothes promptly to prevent wrinkles.
Fold Clothes Properly: Proper folding and storage help prevent wrinkles and maintain the shape of your clothes. Fold clothes neatly along seams and avoid stacking too many items on top of each other, which can cause creases and distortion.
Address Stains Promptly: Treat stains as soon as possible to prevent them from setting and becoming more difficult to remove. Use appropriate stain removal techniques and products based on the type of stain and fabric. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility.
Store Clothes in a Clean, Dry Environment: Proper storage is essential for preserving the condition of your clothes. Store clean, dry garments in a well-ventilated closet or wardrobe, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Use padded hangers for delicate items and avoid overcrowding to prevent wrinkles and deformation.
Rotate Your Wardrobe: Rotate your clothing regularly to distribute wear and prevent certain items from being overused. This practice helps extend the lifespan of your clothes and ensures that all pieces get adequate wear and enjoyment.

By incorporating these laundry tips into your routine, you can effectively prolong the life of your clothes and keep them looking fresh and new for years to come. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy your favorite garments for many seasons, saving money and reducing your environmental footprint in the process.

Direct Textile Store offers numerous products for commercial laundry care including dissolvable and water soluble laundry bags, laundry carts, trucks and hampers. If you need assistance selecting the right product for your needs please contact our customer service department through Live Chat or by calling 800.615.5822.