Machine Wash 40°C

Machine wash at maximum 40°C (104°F) - warm wash

Washing104°F (40°C)low risk

About This Symbol

This washing symbol specifies the maximum water temperature (40°C / 104°F) that should be used when washing this garment. Temperature control is crucial for maintaining fabric integrity, preserving colors, and preventing shrinkage. Following the recommended temperature helps ensure your clothes last longer and maintain their appearance.

Care Instructions:

Set washing machine to 40°C or warm
Standard temperature for most clothing
Effective for removing normal dirt and odors
Balance between cleaning power and fabric care

When to Use This Symbol

When washing at 40°C or below
For colored fabrics that need color protection
For synthetic materials that can be damaged by high heat
When you want to prevent shrinking or stretching

Tips and Best Practices

Set your washing machine to 40°C or the equivalent setting
Use cold water detergent for lower temperatures (30-40°C)
Sort laundry by color and temperature requirements
Avoid mixing items with different temperature requirements
Check the care label if unsure about temperature compatibility

What Happens If This Symbol Is Ignored

Washing at temperatures higher than 40°C can cause color fading, fabric shrinking, damage to synthetic fibers, loss of elasticity, and premature wear.

Regional Note (US)

104°F - Warm setting on most US machines

Common Materials

CottonLinenPolyester

Related Keywords

40 degreeswarm washmedium temperature

Not sure which symbol you have?

Use our free AI image search to identify laundry symbols from a photo. Snap or upload a picture of a care label and our AI will match it against 79+ symbols — including this one.

If this symbol appears on polyester or cotton clothing, follow our step-by-step washing guides: How to wash polyester · How to wash cotton.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Washing Symbols

Machine Wash Normal

Machine wash at any temperature with normal agitation

Machine Wash 30°C

Machine wash at maximum 30°C (86°F) - cold wash

Machine Wash 50°C

Machine wash at maximum 50°C (122°F) - warm wash

Machine Wash 60°C

Machine wash at maximum 60°C (140°F) - hot wash

Machine Wash 70°C

Machine wash at maximum 70°C (158°F) - very hot wash

Machine Wash 95°C

Machine wash at maximum 95°C (203°F) - boil wash

Often used together

Build the full care sequence:

Bleaching symbols →Drying symbols →

What to do next

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