Hi guys. Ever wondered what all those little symbols in the care guide mean? Well, today we’ll discuss those here. Remember to always check the tag for the care instruction before washing any fabric.
We know how convenient it is to be able to hand wash or to be able to toss the item in the washing machine.
Here we have the symbol for hand washing and machine wash. Always note the temperature as it will be indicated in the symbol. Always adhere to the recommended temperature, as the heat of the water can change the structure of the fibers of which the fabric comprises of. This is important when the fabric in a combination of natural and synthetic fibers example linen and polyester.
We also have the no bleach or chlorine symbol
There will also be a symbol indicating Do Not Wash
Onto the drying of items.
Do not tumble dry. We all love tumble drying items, as it is quick and easy exceptionally when we are pressed for time.
Line drip dry, is exactly what it says, hang on the washing line and allow to dry naturally without wringing or expunging excess water. This method is used with fabrics which crease easily and those made of a tighter weave, and less prone to stretch.
Flat dry recommended, requires the item be spread over a flat drying surface. This is recommended for any item with a looser weave which is prone to stretch.
All of these will possibly be accompanied by this symbol. This prohibits no rubbing, wringing or squeezing.
Once dry the following symbols need to be adhered to.
Do not iron
Cool iron – max. temperature110 degrees
Warm iron – max. temperature 150 degrees
Hot iron – max. temperature 200 degrees
Iron on reverse side
Do not steam
Next we have the professional clean symbols. These can be shown as a recommendation together with an option to wash and on its’ own.
Professional steam cleaners
Dry Clean Professionally
Dry Clean with Polyethylene, When sending items to the dry cleaners, make sure to mention that no Polyethylene be used when dry cleaning. A good dry cleaner will be aware of the various fabrics and what chemicals can be used. This is just a precautionary measure.
Dry Clean preferred
Hints and Tips
We strongly recommend that professional advise be taken when cleaning upholstery.
Never use strong detergents or bleach – refer to our blog post on stains
Always remember that the methods you use when washing and drying, will effect delicate fabrics and finishes on fabrics.
All fabrics shrink unless preshrunk. This shrinkage is minimal and not noticeable when wash and drying methods are adhered too.
Dry cleaners use chemicals in the cleaning of items. Always check that they are aware of what chemical not to use with certain fabrics.
When hand washing fabrics, always use soft detergents and lukewarm water. Always rinse in cold water to remove all the detergent.
The color of the fabric will be effected by bleach which is a non-optical brightening agents.
Finally it is recommended that a pressing cloth be used when ironing to protect fabric from scorching and discoloration.
Images by augustman.com
Well we hope that this post has shed some light on some of those puzzling symbols and the reasons behind the precautions.
Let us know how of any other symbols you have come across out there. We always love hearing from you.
Until next time…