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CHECK THE TAG / THE GARMENT CARE FIELD GUIDEEDITION 05 · REFERENCE SNAPSHOT 2026-11-01
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STAIN-CARE DECISIONS

Bleach symbols explained: triangle, lines and cross.

An empty triangle, a triangle with two lines, and a crossed triangle give three different permissions. The small difference determines whether chlorine bleach, oxygen bleach or no bleach is permitted.

PRACTICAL, NOT MIRACLE CLAIMSSOURCES BELOW
Interpret a garment label

01 / FIELD NOTE

Empty triangle: bleach when appropriate

Both chlorine and oxygen bleaching are permitted by the symbol, but the product still must be used correctly. “Allowed” does not mean “required.”

02 / FIELD NOTE

Two diagonal lines: non-chlorine only

Choose an oxygen/non-chlorine product when bleaching is needed. Do not confuse a detergent’s marketing label with its actual ingredients.

03 / FIELD NOTE

Crossed triangle: none

Avoid all bleaching agents, including oxygen bleach and bleach-containing detergent additives.

04 / FIELD NOTE

Other symbols still apply

A bleach-permitted item can still have a restrictive washing temperature or drying method. Read the complete care label.

EXPLORE THE INDEX

Symbols relevant to this guide

FIELD NOTE Do not bleach symbolDo not use bleach, including oxygen-based bleach.FIELD NOTE Non-chlorine bleach only symbolUse only non-chlorine (oxygen-based) bleach when needed; do not use chlorine bleach.FIELD NOTE Any bleach allowed symbolChlorine or non-chlorine bleach may be used when needed and suitable for the garment.
REFERENCE CHECK / 01 NOV 2026

Source notes and publication editions

Care marks describe permitted treatments for the finished article, not a guarantee of results. Some standards require purchase and the illustrations here are independent teaching representations. Read the evidence and licensing limits.