HOW TO READ A CARE LABEL
While everyone has seen a care label before, few of us know what the symbols mean exactly. Find out in our guide below.
GOOD TO KNOW
The care label shows the maximum treatment the garment can endure several times without being damaged. You'll find it inside your garment, usually on the left side. The symbols are standardized and governed by Ginetex, ensuring uniform and clear communication. For further details, visit the Ginetex website.
WASHING
This symbol tells you if the garment can be washed at home, as opposed to requiring professional cleaning. It also indicates whether to handwash or machine wash. The numbers represent the maximum washing temperature in degrees Celsius, which should not be exceeded. Lines beneath the washing tub suggest a more delicate washing process is needed.
BLEACHING
This symbol shows whether bleaching is allowed. Bleaching – done in water before, during, or after washing – helps remove stains, dirt, and enhance whiteness.
DRYING
The square represents drying methods. A circle inside the square means a tumble dryer can be used, with dots indicating the heat level. Horizontal or vertical lines suggest natural drying methods. A diagonal line across the symbol means the garment should not be exposed to direct sunlight.
IRONING
The dots specify the temperature of the iron. Many irons also have settings based on fabric type, making it easier to adjust accordingly.
DRY CLEANING
This symbol indicates whether professional textile care is required. The letters F and P refer to dry cleaning and identify the solvent type. The letter W stands for wet cleaning, which involves water-based treatment that cannot be done with a household washing machine.
WASHING
This symbol tells you if the garment can be washed at home, as opposed to requiring professional cleaning. It also indicates whether to handwash or machine wash. The numbers represent the maximum washing temperature in degrees Celsius, which should not be exceeded. Lines beneath the washing tub suggest a more delicate washing process is needed.
BLEACHING
This symbol shows whether bleaching is allowed. Bleaching – done in water before, during, or after washing – helps remove stains, dirt, and enhance whiteness.
DRYING
The square represents drying methods. A circle inside the square means a tumble dryer can be used, with dots indicating the heat level. Horizontal or vertical lines suggest natural drying methods. A diagonal line across the symbol means the garment should not be exposed to direct sunlight.
IRONING
The dots specify the temperature of the iron. Many irons also have settings based on fabric type, making it easier to adjust accordingly.
DRY CLEANING
This symbol indicates whether professional textile care is required. The letters F and P refer to dry cleaning and identify the solvent type. The letter W stands for wet cleaning, which involves water-based treatment that cannot be done with a household washing machine.
