What does wash 30 mean?
The wash 30 symbol is one of the most common laundry symbols on care labels. It means you can machine wash the garment at 30°C (86°F) or below. Here’s what that means and how to follow it.
Wash 30 is a cold or cool wash. It’s often used for dark or coloured fabrics, delicates, and synthetic fibres to reduce fading and shrinking. Many modern detergents work well at 30°C, so it’s a good default when the label allows it.
Always use the temperature shown on the care label or lower. Washing at a higher temperature than indicated can cause shrinking, colour loss, or damage. If you see “wash 30”, set your machine to 30°C or a cold/cool programme.
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