Pyykinpesumerkkeinä

Pyykinpesumerkkeinä, often translated as laundry symbols or care labels, are a system of standardized pictograms used on textiles to indicate the recommended methods for washing, drying, bleaching, ironing, and dry cleaning. These symbols are crucial for consumers to properly care for their garments, helping to prevent damage and prolong their lifespan. The symbols are generally grouped by the type of care action required.

Washing symbols typically depict a basin of water, with the number of dots inside indicating the maximum washing temperature. A single dot represents cold water, while more dots suggest warmer temperatures, up to a maximum of 60 degrees Celsius. An "X" through the basin indicates that the garment should not be washed. Handwashing is usually represented by a hand in the basin.

Drying symbols often feature a square. A circle inside the square represents tumble drying, with dots again indicating the heat setting. An "X" through the square means do not tumble dry. Air drying is depicted by lines within the square, representing drying flat, on a line, or in the shade.

Bleaching symbols use a triangle. A plain triangle indicates that any bleach can be used. A triangle with diagonal lines suggests non-chlorine bleach only. A triangle with an "X" means bleaching is not allowed.

Ironing symbols are represented by an iron graphic, with dots again denoting the heat level. A single dot is for low heat, while three dots are for high heat. An "X" through the iron signifies that ironing is prohibited.

Dry cleaning symbols usually show a circle. A circle with a letter inside indicates the type of solvent that can be used. An "X" through the circle means dry cleaning is not permitted. These symbols collectively provide a universal language for textile care.