01 / HOW TO IDENTIFY IT
Match the shape, not just the words.
A wash tub is the base shape. Read the number or hand inside it, then count the lines beneath the tub. Each added line indicates a gentler process.
The number 40 identifies a maximum water temperature of 40°C. It is not an instruction to use hot water for every load and does not override any written restriction on the label.
02 / WHAT TO DO
The practical decision.
Colour bleeding and fabric finishing remain considerations. Separate light and dark garments and verify the bleach and drying symbols before continuing beyond washing.
Hotter washing or stronger agitation than the label allows may change size, colour or finish.
03 / WHAT PEOPLE CONFUSE
One small detail changes the meaning.
One or two bars under the same tub would reduce permitted mechanical agitation; an unbarred mark does not include that extra limitation.
04 / AFTER YOU IDENTIFY IT
Check the rest of the tag.
The washing, bleaching, drying, ironing and professional-care instructions work together. This page interprets one symbol only; a blank or unreadable mark does not grant permission for any other treatment.
Never replace the maker’s written instructions with a guess based only on material composition or appearance. Read the complete care-label method.