Wash symbols made easy for once and for all

Care symbols on labels seem like a jumble of pictograms, but there is a clear system behind it all. We can divide the symbols into 5 main groups that are often shown in the following order on the care label. We’ll explain the most common symbols per group.

The number of degrees indicated on the label is a maximum. It's always better to wash your garment – if possible - at a lower temperature. 

Wash at 30°C maximum | Normal spin speed 

Use a delicate wash program at 30°C maximum | Low spin speed | Load the drum no more than half of the maximum weight to minimize friction 

Use a wool wash program at max30°C maximum | Low spin speed “Load the drum no more than 1/3 of the maximum weight to minimize friction.

Wash at 30°C maximum | Normal spin speed 

also applies for symbols with 40°C of 60°C – only the temperature differs.

Wash by hand, or even beter: wash at a 30°C hand wash program on your washing machine and use a mesh laundry bag. By hand, little mistakes as using the wrong temperature or rubbing too hard are easy made. Prefer to wash by hand anyway? Let the garment soak gently, do not rube and make sure the temperature is around 30°C. Fibers can shrink by using too hot or too cold water.  

Do not wash the garment. Manufacturers often choose to safest option as a precaution. With the exception of lined blazers and very delicate garments, you can often safely wash a garment by using a hand wash program and a mesh laundry bag. We always indicate this when that applies for an item.  

Remember it’s always better to air dry a garment, both for the environment as for your clothing. The less a garment is exposed to friction, the less likely it is that the garment will show pilling or damage.  

Tumble dry on low heat

Tumble dry on medium heat 

Tumble dry on high heat, quick-drying programs are allowed 

Do not tumble dry and dry flat 

Do not tumble dry and hang to air dry

Do not tumble dry 

The item is not suitable to steam or dry clean