Why care labels matter
Care symbols tell you exactly how to clean a garment without damaging it. Ignoring them is the most common cause of shrinkage and colour loss.
The main symbol groups
Washtub: washing instructions and maximum temperature.
Triangle: bleaching rules.
Square: drying method.
Iron: ironing temperature.
Circle: dry cleaning instructions.
Key symbols to remember
A crossed-out washtub means do not machine wash.
A hand in the washtub means hand wash only.
A circle with a “P” means professional dry clean.
Dots indicate temperature — more dots, higher heat.