Washing
Do not wash symbol
Not washable, by machine or by hand. Usually there is a dry-clean symbol next to it.
- What to do
- Take it to a dry cleaner. Spot-clean small marks dry or with a barely damp cloth.
- Avoid
- Water can shrink it, warp the lining or strip the finish – even 'just a little'.
- Where you see it
- Tailored jackets, coats, leather, suede, velvet
What to set on the machine
- Washing
- do not wash – dry cleaner or spot clean
Don't mix it up with
Hand wash onlyA hand in the tub – it can be washed, by hand only.Other washing symbols
Wash at 95 °CWhite cotton, linen, terry towellingWash at 70 °CWorkwear, medical uniformsWash at 60 °CCotton, linen, beddingWash at 60 °C, mild cyclePolycotton, synthetic shirtsWash at 50 °CCotton blends, coloured cottonWash at 50 °C, mild cycleSynthetics, blendsWash at 40 °CCotton, denim, jerseyWash at 40 °C, mild cyclePolyester, nylon, sportswearWash at 40 °C, very mild cycleWool, delicate blendsWash at 30 °CDarks and brights, jerseyWash at 30 °C, mild cycleViscose, synthetic blouses, dressesWash at 30 °C, very mild cycleWool, merino, machine-washable cashmere, silk blendsHand wash onlyCashmere, silk, lace, embellished piecesMachine washClothes from US brandsUS
Questions and answers
Frequently asked
Got the whole label?
Pick all its symbols and get the washer, dryer and iron settings in one place.
Decode the labelPrintable symbol chart →01What does the do not wash symbol mean?
Not washable, by machine or by hand. Usually there is a dry-clean symbol next to it.
02What should I do with the garment?
Take it to a dry cleaner. Spot-clean small marks dry or with a barely damp cloth.
03What is the most common mistake?
Water can shrink it, warp the lining or strip the finish – even 'just a little'.
04Can I wash cooler than the label says?
Yes – the number is the maximum. Cooler is always safe for the fabric.
05Which detergent should I use?
Colours – a non-bleach 'colour' detergent; wool and silk – an enzyme-free wool detergent; whites – one with oxygen bleach if the triangle allows it.
How to wash cashmere
How to wash wool
How to wash silk
How to wash a puffer jacket
How to wash a hat
How to wash white clothes
How to wash sneakers
How to wash jeans
How to wash linen
How to clean a leather jacket
How to wash bras
How to wash polyester