IKEA, like many other brands, uses standardized washing symbols on its textile care labels to guide consumers on how to properly wash and care for their products. Understanding these symbols is essential to maintaining the quality and longevity of your items. Below is a detailed explanation of common washing symbols you may encounter on IKEA products:
Washing Symbols
- Washing Machine Symbol:
- Symbol: A tub with water.
Meaning: The item can be machine washed. The number inside the tub indicates the maximum washing temperature in degrees Celsius (e.g., 30, 40, 60).
Hand Wash Symbol:
- Symbol: A hand in a tub of water.
Meaning: The item should be hand washed only. Use lukewarm water and gentle handling.
Do Not Wash Symbol:
- Symbol: A tub with a cross over it.
- Meaning: The item should not be washed.
Temperature Indicators
- Numbers Inside the Washing Symbol: Indicate the maximum washing temperature. For example:
- 30°C: Cold wash.
- 40°C: Warm wash.
- 60°C or higher: Hot wash.
Other Care Symbols
- Bleaching Symbols:
- Triangle with a “B”: Can be bleached.
Triangle with a cross: Do not bleach.
Drying Symbols:
- Circle with a dot: Tumble dry at low heat.
- Circle with two dots: Tumble dry at medium heat.
Circle with a cross: Do not tumble dry.
Ironing Symbols:
- Iron Symbol: Indicates that the item can be ironed. The dots inside indicate the heat setting:
- One Dot: Low heat.
- Two Dots: Medium heat.
- Three Dots: High heat.
Iron with a Cross: Do not iron.
Professional Textile Care Symbols:
- Circle (Dry Cleaning): Indicates that the item can be dry cleaned. The letters inside may specify the type of solvent that can be used.
- Circle with a Cross: Do not dry clean.
Additional Notes
- Always check for the care label on the specific product as the symbols may vary slightly based on material and design.
- If you’re uncertain about the symbols or care instructions, it’s always a good idea to refer to IKEA’s customer service or website for more detailed information.
Understanding these symbols will help you take proper care of your IKEA textiles, ensuring they remain in good condition for as long as possible.