Whenever we purchase a new garment, we always make it a point to take a closer look at the washing instructions properly. They help us understand how to take care of our clothes and avoid any damage that comes from washing them improperly. One of the most common symbols we see on the washing label is the hand wash symbol.
Have you ever wondered what the wash hands symbol means? In this blog post, we will explain everything you need to know about this washing instruction and how to correctly wash your clothes by hand.
What is the wash hands symbol?
The wash hands symbol is a common washing tub symbol with a hand at the top, indicating that the garment requires hand washing. This symbol is often found on delicate fabrics or materials that are prone to shrinking or damage in the washing machine.
How to correctly hand wash your clothes?
Hand washing clothes can seem like an extra chore at first, but it’s pretty simple once you get the hang of it. Here’re the steps to follow:
Step 1: Fill a large bowl or sink with lukewarm water.
Step 2: Add mild detergent/ soap to the water. Do not use fabric softeners or bleach as these can cause discoloration or damage to the fabric.
Step 3: Place the garment in the water, and gently agitate it with your hands to loosen and remove dirt from the fabric.
Step 4: Allow the garment to soak for around 10 minutes, or as per the manufacturer’s instructions on the label.
Step 5: Rinse the garment thoroughly with clean water, ensuring there is no soap remaining.
Step 6: Gently press out the excess water from the garment, being careful not to wring, twist or pull the fabric.
Step 7: Hang the garment to dry, being careful not to expose it to direct sunlight.
When should you hand wash your clothes?
The recommended times to wash your clothes by hand include:
- When you have delicate fabrics such as silk, lace, cashmere, wool, or any other item that features the wash hands symbol on the label.
- When you have clothes with decorative embellishments such as sequins, beads, or embroidery that can be damaged by a washing machine’s agitator.
- When you have lightly soiled clothes that don’t necessarily require a full washing cycle.
Conclusion
The wash hands symbol on a garment label is a notification that washing by hand is recommended. However, despite being a little bit more time-consuming, hand-washing is the best way to ensure your delicate clothing items or those with embellishments that can be damaged in a washing machine remain in good condition. By following the steps mentioned above, you can take care of your clothes and keep them looking great for longer.