Care labels provide important information about how to properly care for and clean garments. The care labels commonly use symbols and sometimes text to convey care instructions. Here are the five basic care labels commonly found on clothing:
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Machine Wash:
- Symbol: A stylized washing machine icon.
- Meaning: The garment can be safely washed in a washing machine.
- Additional Information: The number inside the symbol may indicate the maximum water temperature suitable for washing.
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Hand Wash:
- Symbol: A hand in a basin of water.
- Meaning: The garment should be washed by hand rather than in a machine.
- Additional Information: The label may provide additional details, such as water temperature and specific hand-washing instructions.
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Dry Clean:
- Symbol: A circle with a letter "P" inside.
- Meaning: The garment should be dry-cleaned by a professional cleaner.
- Additional Information: Some labels may include specific instructions for the type of solvent to be used during dry cleaning.
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Do Not Bleach:
- Symbol: A triangle crossed out with diagonal lines.
- Meaning: Bleaching is not recommended for this garment.
- Additional Information: The label may also include a specific prohibition on chlorine bleach or other types of bleach.
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Tumble Dry:
- Symbol: A square with a circle inside, often with dots indicating drying intensity.
- Meaning: The garment can be tumble-dried in a dryer.
- Additional Information: The dots inside the symbol may indicate the drying temperature and intensity. One dot signifies a low temperature, two dots medium, and three dots high.
These care labels are standardized symbols and are designed to convey important information about how to properly care for garments, helping to extend their lifespan and maintain their quality. Additionally, some labels may include other care instructions, such as ironing recommendations, line drying, or flat drying. It's important for consumers to pay attention to these care labels to ensure proper garment care.