The three dots on your clothes tag hold the secret to the perfect wash – and so many people are completely unaware of its meaning until now.
People’s minds are blown after working out what three dot symbol means on clothes tags and it’s a vital instruction not to be ignored.
We’ve all encountered those baffling laundry symbols on clothing tags that usually look like cryptic marks. But while they may seem confusing, these symbols are there for a reason: they’re the key to properly caring for your clothes. And there’s one symbol, in particular, that’s been causing a stir lately, the three dots. Here’s what it really means and why it’s so important.
We all think we know how to do laundry—separating colours from whites, choosing the right detergent, and using the washing machine. But here’s the thing: following the care instructions on your clothing labels is essential to preserve your wardrobe. Ignoring these can lead to fabric damage, shrinkage, and fading, according to Readers Digest.
Alicia Sokolowski, co-CEO of Aspen Clean, warns: “You risk destroying your clothes by not following the laundry care instructions. What might happen if you put a dry-clean-only garment in a washing machine? The garment could shrink—not just a little, but significantly. Garments made of wool can shrink two to three sizes or more, and drapes can shrink to half their size.”
The washtub symbol, often seen with dots inside it, refers to the water temperature you should use when washing. This is an easy visual guide for the ideal temperature, without needing to check a manual or convert from Celsius.
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One dot means cold wash (up to 30°C).
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Two dots mean warm wash (up to 40°C).
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Three dots indicate hot wash (up to 50°C).
The more dots, the hotter the water. Using the wrong temperature can damage delicate fabrics or cause shrinkage, so it’s crucial to get it right. Other symbols on your clothing label are just as important. For instance, an X over the washtub means don’t wash the item in a machine. The hand symbol inside the washtub means hand wash only.
The triangle is used for bleach instructions: an empty triangle means you can use any bleach, while a triangle with two lines means only non-chlorine bleach is safe. An X on the triangle means no bleach. The square symbol tells you how to dry your clothes. A square with a circle inside means it’s safe to tumble dry, but be mindful of the temperature dots. If there’s no circle, the garment should be air-dried.
When it comes to ironing, dots inside the iron symbol indicate the heat setting: one dot for cool, two for warm, and three for hot. An X over the iron means don’t iron it at all. Next time you’re doing laundry, pay attention to those little symbols. They’re more than just decorative—they’re there to help your clothes last longer. And the three dots? They’re all about washing at the right temperature. Follow these simple guidelines, and you’ll be a laundry expert in no time.
