The world of laundry can be a confusing one, especially when it comes to deciphering the mysterious symbols on the labels of our clothes. From the cryptic hieroglyphics that seem to indicate how to wash our delicates to the arcane symbols that supposedly tell us how to dry our towels, it's a wonder we don't all just throw our hands up in frustration and send our clothes to the cleaners.
But fear not, dear reader, for we have a solution to this problem. In this article, we will explore the world of laundry symbols, providing you with a comprehensive guide to understanding what each symbol means, as well as a free printable laundry symbols chart to help you keep track of it all.
What are Laundry Symbols?
Laundry symbols, also known as care labels, are the small icons and pictures found on the labels of clothing and textiles. These symbols provide important information about how to wash, dry, iron, and care for our clothes, in order to ensure they last as long as possible and remain in good condition.
Why are Laundry Symbols Important?
Laundry symbols are important because they help us to take proper care of our clothes. By following the instructions provided by these symbols, we can prevent damage to our clothes, reduce the risk of shrinkage, fading, or discoloration, and ensure that our clothes remain soft, clean, and hygienic.
Common Laundry Symbols
Here are some of the most common laundry symbols you are likely to encounter:
Washing Symbols
- A tub filled with water indicates that the item can be washed.
- A hand in the tub indicates that the item should be hand washed.
- A number in the tub indicates the maximum temperature at which the item can be washed.
- A line underneath the tub indicates that the item should be washed on a gentle cycle.
Drying Symbols
- A square indicates that the item can be tumble dried.
- A horizontal line below the square indicates that the item should be dried on a low heat setting.
- A diagonal line below the square indicates that the item should be dried on a medium heat setting.
- A vertical line below the square indicates that the item should be dried on a high heat setting.
Ironing Symbols
- An iron indicates that the item can be ironed.
- A dot on the iron indicates the temperature at which the item should be ironed.
- A line underneath the iron indicates that the item should be ironed while still slightly damp.
Special Care Symbols
Bleaching Symbols
- A triangle indicates that the item can be bleached.
- A diagonal line through the triangle indicates that the item should not be bleached.
Dry Cleaning Symbols
- A circle indicates that the item should be dry cleaned.
- A letter in the circle indicates the type of solvent that should be used.
Free Printable Laundry Symbols Chart
To help you keep track of all these symbols, we have created a free printable laundry symbols chart that you can download and print at home.
How to Use the Chart
Simply print out the chart and stick it on the inside of your washing machine or dryer door. This way, you will always have a handy reference guide to help you decipher the laundry symbols on your clothes.
Conclusion
Laundry symbols may seem like a mystery, but with the right guide, they can be easily understood. By following the instructions provided by these symbols, you can ensure that your clothes are washed, dried, and ironed correctly, and that they last for a long time.
We hope this article has been helpful in explaining the world of laundry symbols. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
What do laundry symbols mean?
+Laundry symbols, also known as care labels, provide important information about how to wash, dry, iron, and care for our clothes.
Why are laundry symbols important?
+Laundry symbols help us to take proper care of our clothes, preventing damage, shrinkage, fading, or discoloration.
What is the most common laundry symbol?
+The most common laundry symbol is the washing tub symbol, which indicates that the item can be washed.