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Ever stared at a clothing care label and thought, "What does that even mean?" You're not alone. Those tiny tags full of symbols can look more like a secret code than laundry instructions. But don't worry - decoding them is easier than it looks, and we're here to help.
Knowing how to properly care for your clothes keeps them looking better, longer - and when you pair that knowledge with Nellie's Laundry Soda, you'll be a laundry legend in no time.
Let's break down what all those laundry symbols actually mean, so you can stop guessing and start washing with confidence.
Why Care Labels Matter
Those little tags inside your clothes aren't just there to scratch your neck - they're there to help you protect your fabrics, colours, and fits. Following care labels can prevent shrinking, fading, pilling, and accidental damage.
Bonus: It also helps you choose the right wash settings and temperature to get your clothes clean without compromising their quality.
The Most Common Laundry Symbols & What They Mean
Here's your no-stress guide to understanding the care label icons.
Washing Symbol (The Tub)
Looks like: A bucket of water
This tells you how the item should be washed - and at what temperature.
- Machine Wash: A plain tub symbol
- Hand Wash Only: A hand reaching into the tub
- Do Not Wash: A tub with an X through it
- Dots Inside the Tub: Each dot = heat level (1 dot = cold, 2 dots = warm, 3 dots = hot)
Pro Tip: Most everyday clothes can be washed with Nellie's Laundry Soda in cold or hot water. It's tough on stains and gentle on fabrics - even the delicate ones.
Bleaching Symbol (The Triangle)
- Empty Triangle = Bleach is safe
- Triangle with two lines = Use only non-chlorine bleach
- Triangle with an X = No bleach
Drying Symbol (The Square with a Circle)
- Plain circle in a square = Tumble dry is okay
- Dots inside = Heat level
- Line under the square = Permanent press
- X over the square = Do not tumble dry
Want to ditch dryer sheets? Try Nellie's Dryerballs for a natural, reusable way to soften clothes and speed up drying.
Ironing Symbol
- Iron icon = Okay to iron
- Dots inside = Heat level
- X though the iron = Do not iron
Dry Cleaning Symbol (circle)
- Circle = Dry clean only
- Letters inside = Type of cleaning solvent
- X through circle = Do not dry clean
How to Match Care Labels with Your Wash Routine
When in doubt, here's a quick guide:
- Delicates (silk, lace, lingerie): Hand wash or gentle cycle with cold water + Laundry Soda.
- Everyday Clothes (cotton, polyester): Machine wash cold or warm with Laundry Soda.
- Towels & Bedding: Hot water wash + Oxygen Brightener for extra freshness.
- Activewear: Cold water + Laundry Soda, and hang to dry to preserve elasticity.
Label Reading = Longer Lasting Clothes
Understanding your care labels not only protects your favourite pieces but also helps reduce waste and the need for constant replacement. Combine that with eco-friendly, effective products like Laundry Soda, and you've got a laundry routine that's easy on your clothes and the planet.
Nellie's Tip:
Tired of squinting at tiny tags? Snap a photo of your most delicate items' care labels and save them to your phone. No more guesswork!
Clean Clothes, Smart Choices
Laundry labels don't have to be confusing. Once you know the basics, you'll wash with more confidence - and better results. So the next time you see a cryptic symbol, just remember: You've got this.