Laundry Symbols Explained

Laundry Symbols Explained 

Have you ever looked at the tag on a shirt and wondered what all those little symbols actually mean? 

You're not alone. Laundry care labels can look like a secret code, but they're there for a reason. Following them can help prevent shrinking, fading, stretching, and other damage that can shorten the life of your favorite clothes. 



Here's a breakdown of some of the most common laundry symbols you'll find. 

Washing Symbols 

The symbol that looks like a bucket of water tells you how your garment should be washed. 

• Bucket with a number: Wash using the water temperature shown. 
• Bucket with a hand: Hand wash only. 
• Bucket with an X: Do not wash. This item should be professionally cleaned. 

If your garment says "Do Not Wash," it's best to follow those instructions to help avoid permanent damage.

Drying Symbols 

The square symbol refers to drying instructions. 

• Circle inside a square: Tumble dry. 
• One dot: Low heat. 
• Two dots: Medium heat. 
• Three dots: High heat. 
• Square with an X: Do not tumble dry. 

High heat is one of the biggest causes of shrinking, so these symbols are worth paying attention to. 

Bleaching Symbols 

The triangle tells you whether bleach is safe to use. 

• Plain triangle: Bleach may be used. 
• Triangle with lines: Use only non-chlorine bleach. 
• Triangle with an X: Do not bleach. 

Using the wrong bleach can permanently damage fabric or cause colors to fade. 

Ironing Symbols 

The iron symbol explains how much heat your garment can handle. 

• One dot: Low heat. 
• Two dots: Medium heat. 
• Three dots: High heat. 
• Iron with an X: Do not iron. 

Using too much heat can scorch delicate fabrics or leave shiny marks behind. 

Dry Cleaning Symbols 

A circle indicates professional dry cleaning instructions. 

If you see a plain circle or a tag that says "Dry Clean Only," it's best to leave that garment to the professionals. These items are often made from delicate fabrics or have construction that can be damaged in a traditional washer and dryer. 

Why These Symbols Matter 

Care labels aren't just suggestions. They're created by the garment manufacturer after testing the fabric and construction. 

Taking a few extra seconds to check the tag before washing can help your clothes last longer, fit better, and continue looking their best. 

When You're Not Sure 

Sometimes laundry symbols can still be confusing, especially on delicate fabrics or specialty garments. 

If you're ever unsure how to clean an item, bring it to Pilgrim. Our experienced garment care professionals are happy to help you determine the best way to care for your clothing and keep it looking its best.