Ironing symbols and iron temperatures
The ironing symbol is a small iron. Dots inside set the highest temperature: one dot for low, two for medium, three for high. A cross means do not iron at all.
Not sure which one is on your tag? Point the laundry symbol scanner at it and it reads every symbol for you.
All ironing symbols at a glance
Iron
Ironing is fine at any temperature.
What to do: Use the setting for the fabric. Check the other symbols for steam limits.
Iron on low
Iron at a low temperature, at most 110°C (230°F): one dot. Steam can damage it.
What to do: Use the silk or synthetic setting and iron inside out or through a cloth.
Iron on medium
Iron at a medium temperature, at most 150°C (300°F): two dots.
What to do: Use the wool or polyester setting. A damp cloth helps on wool.
Iron on high
Iron at a high temperature, at most 200°C (390°F): three dots.
What to do: Use the cotton or linen setting, with steam if creases are stubborn.
Do not iron
Do not iron. Heat would melt, shine or damage the fabric or a print.
What to do: Hang it while damp to let creases drop out, or use a steamer only if steam is not crossed out.
Do not steam
Do not use steam when ironing, and no steamer.
What to do: Turn the steam off and iron dry at the allowed temperature.
Iron temperatures by fabric
The dots match the dots on most iron dials, so you can set the iron straight from the tag.
| Dots | Max temperature | Fabrics |
|---|---|---|
| One | 110°C (230°F) | Silk, nylon, acrylic, polyester blends |
| Two | 150°C (300°F) | Wool, polyester, viscose |
| Three | 200°C (390°F) | Cotton, linen |
Tips for ironing safely
- Iron prints and dark fabrics inside out so they do not go shiny.
- Start with the item that needs the lowest setting and work up, because irons cool down slowly.
- Use a pressing cloth on wool and on anything with a one-dot symbol.
- If steam is crossed out, empty the water tank or switch steam off.
Other care symbols
The laundry symbols chart has every symbol on one page. Or read the guides to washing, bleach, drying, , dry cleaning symbols.
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