Laundry care symbols cover separate stages: washing, bleaching, drying, ironing and professional care. A temperature shown in the wash tub does not specify how to dry or iron the garment.
The five symbol families
GINETEX explains the care-labelling system. Briefly, the tub concerns washing, the triangle bleaching, the square drying, the iron pressing and the circle professional care. A tub number gives the maximum temperature; bars beneath it require a gentler process.
Consult the full source for individual variants, dots and crossed-out symbols. Do not guess at a worn mark from an unclear photo.
Use the complete label
- Identify instructions for the finished garment, not just the outer fibre.
- Check every stage you intend to apply, including drying and finishing.
- Compare the instructions with programme descriptions in the appliance manual.
- Separate garments with incompatible limits.
A wool programme does not establish that every wool item is washable. Hand-wash permission does not justify vigorous rubbing or twisting. See washing delicate clothes for these distinctions.
If the label is missing
Look for manufacturer instructions using the model or product code. Fibre composition helps but does not reveal how adhesives, lining or trims behave. Request assessment before an irreversible experiment.
Frequently asked questions
Does washability also mean tumble-dryer safety?
No. Check the separate drying symbol and instructions.
Is the letter inside a circle a programme on my machine?
No. It provides professional-care information. Read the professional-cleaning explanation and ask for clarification at drop-off.
