Tumble Dryer Symbols On Clothes Explained

When it comes to tumble drying clothes, it’s important to know what each of the symbols on your garments mean, as this can determine whether or not you should use a tumble dryer, and what settings to use.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of the tumble dryer instruction symbols on clothes and explain what each one means.

The Square With White Circle Symbol

The square with white circle symbol means that you can tumble dry the garment in question.

However, it’s important to check the other symbols alongside this one to ensure you’re using the right settings.

The Square With White Circle & One Black Dot In Circle Symbol

The square with a white circle and one black dot in the middle symbol indicates that the garment can be dried on a normal setting, but at a low heat.

This is useful for delicate items that might be damaged by higher heat.

The Square With White Circle & Two Black Dots In Circle Symbol

The square with a white circle & two black dots in the circle symbol means that the garment can be dried on a normal setting, but with medium heat.

This is useful for items that aren’t too delicate, but aren’t able to withstand high heat.

The Square With White Circle & Three Black Dots In Circle Symbol

The square with a white circle & three black dots in the circle symbol means that the garment can be dried with high heat.

This is more common for heavier items like towels and bedding.

The Square With Black Circle Symbol

The square with a black circle inside means that the item can be tumble dried on a normal setting, but with no heat.

If your garment has this symbol, the idea is to use the tumble dryer to freshen up the item, and not necessarily dry it completely.

The Square With White Circle And A Black X On Top Symbol

The square with a white circle and a black X symbol means that the garment should not be tumble dried at all.

This symbol is often seen on delicate or woolen items, which could shrink or become misshapen if tumble dried.

Summary: Tumble Dryer Instruction Symbols On Clothes

Now that we’ve gone through each of the symbols in depth, we thought we’d include this short recap to help you get your head around it:

• Square With White Circle
  You can tumble dry
• Square With White Circle, One Black Dot In Circle
  This indicates you can dry on normal, low heat
• Square With White Circle, Two Black Dots In Circle
  This indicates you can dry normal, medium heat
• Square With White Circle, Three Black Dots In Circle
  You can dry normal, high heat
• Square With Black Circle
  You can dry normal, with no heat
• Square With White Circle And A Black X On Top
  Do not tumble dry

Do NOT Overlook The Wash Care Labels

You may think that paying attention to wash care labels is a minor detail in your laundry routine, but neglecting them can cost you more than you think.

If you’ve not been paying attention to them, it’ll be the cause of the following:

• Shrinking Clothes
  Some fabrics are more susceptible to shrinking than others, and washing/drying them in hot water can cause them to shrink down a few sizes (especially bad after Christmas when you need all the extra space in your clothes you can get).
• Fading Colours
  Certain fabrics, especially those with vibrant colours, can fade when exposed to certain temperatures. This is more commonly an issue with washing than drying, but it can still be a factor.
• Stretching Out Of Shape
  Drying delicate fabrics like silk or lace can cause them to lose their shape and stretch out of shape, leaving you with an item of clothing you no longer feel comfortable wearing out side the house.
• General Damage
  Garments with embellishments or delicate fabrics can get damaged in dryer if not dealt with properly.

Frequently Asked Questions