Have you ever glanced at a clothing tag only to be met with a row of mysterious symbols – tiny buckets, triangles, circles, and crosses? These wash care symbols are more than just fine print—they’re the secret language of your garments, guiding you on how to clean, dry, and iron them without causing damage.
To learn more about the professional dry cleaning services we offer, be sure to explore our range of services at Bianca ClothSpa.
At Bianca ClothSpa, we believe luxury is in the details—and understanding how to care for your clothes properly is key to preserving their look, feel, and longevity.
This guide will help you decode the most common wash care symbols, so you never have to second-guess laundry day again.
1. Washing Symbols
The bucket icon represents washing instructions.
- Plain bucket: Machine washable.
- Bucket with a number: Wash at or below the indicated temperature (e.g., 40°C).
- Hand in bucket: Hand wash only.
- Bucket with a cross: Do not wash.
2. Bleaching Symbols
The triangle tells you whether or not you can use bleach.
- Empty triangle: Bleach allowed (any type).
- Triangle with diagonal lines: Use only non-chlorine bleach.
- Crossed-out triangle: Do not bleach.
3. Drying Symbols
The square is your drying guide, often with variations inside.
- Circle inside square: Tumble dry allowed.
- Dots inside the circle: One dot = low heat, two dots = medium, three dots = high.
- Line inside square: Line dry.
- Square with a curve at the top: Drip dry.
- Crossed-out square: Do not tumble dry.
4. Ironing Symbols
The iron symbol tells you if (and how) you can press the garment.
- Iron with dots: One dot = low heat, two = medium, three = high.
- Crossed-out iron: Do not iron.
- Iron with steam lines crossed out: No steam allowed.
5. Dry Cleaning Symbols
The circle refers to dry cleaning instructions.
- Plain circle: Dry clean only.
- Letter inside circle: Indicates the type of solvent to be used.
- Crossed-out circle: Do not dry clean.
Why Wash Care Symbols Matter
Ignoring these little icons can lead to shrinkage, color fading, fabric damage, or worse, a ruined favorite outfit. On the other hand, understanding them ensures your wardrobe stays in pristine condition for years.
Final Word from Bianca ClothSpa
Your clothes speak a language, and wash care symbols are their voice. At Bianca ClothSpa, we speak that language fluently. Whether it’s delicate designer wear, intricate embroidery, or everyday essentials, our team ensures every item is treated with the care it was made for.
