Dry and wet cleaning
Dry clean symbol
An empty circle (US) – may be dry-cleaned with any solvent.
- What to do
- It allows it, it doesn't require it – check for a washing symbol too.
- Avoid
- The circle is for professionals – it says nothing about washing at home.
- Where you see it
- Jackets, coats (US labels)
On European labels the same is: Dry clean (P)
Decode the whole labelWhat to set on the machine
- Cleaner
- Dry clean
Other cleaning symbols
Dry clean (P)Tailoring, suits, coats, woolDry clean (P), mildEmbellished, embroidered or bonded piecesDry clean (F)Coated fabrics, bonded details, leatherDry clean (F), mildDelicate coated fabricsDo not dry cleanSportswear, coated fabrics, some printsProfessional wet cleaning (W)Tailoring, coats, woolWet cleaning (W), mildDelicatesWet cleaning (W), very mildVery delicate garmentsDo not wet cleanTailoring, bonded detailsDry clean (A) – old symbolOlder garments
Questions and answers
Frequently asked
Got the whole label?
Pick all its symbols and get the washer, dryer and iron settings in one place.
Decode the labelPrintable symbol chart →01What does the dry clean symbol mean?
An empty circle (US) – may be dry-cleaned with any solvent.
02What should I do with the garment?
It allows it, it doesn't require it – check for a washing symbol too.
03What is the most common mistake?
The circle is for professionals – it says nothing about washing at home.
04Does the circle mean it must go to a cleaner?
No – it only says which professional cleaning the garment can take. If there's a washing symbol too, it can be washed at home.
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How to wash wool
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How to wash a hat
How to wash white clothes
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How to wash jeans
How to wash linen
How to clean a leather jacket
How to wash bras
How to wash polyester