A Comprehensive Guide to Japanese Textile Washing Signs
Japanese textile washing signs are an essential part of the country's culture and tradition. These signs indicate the proper way to wash different types of fabrics, such as cotton, silk, linen, and wool. They often include pictures or symbols that represent the type of fabric being washed and the appropriate water temperature and detergent to use.To fully understand these signs, it is important to know a few key terms. For example, \"sotsujaku\" means gentle washing and is suitable for delicate fabrics like silk and chiffon. "Shiragami\" refers to hand-washing and requires very gentle soaping. \"Shirasu\" means machine washing and should be used with caution, as it can damage some fabrics.Another important aspect of Japanese textile washing signs is the use of color coding. Red indicates hot water, blue indicates cold water, and green indicates mild detergent. The order in which the colors are arranged also holds significance, with red appearing first for hot water and blue appearing first for cold water.By following these guidelines, laundry can be handled with care and precision, preserving the beauty and longevity of Japanese textiles for generations to come.
Japanese textile washing signs are an essential part of the country's culture and tradition. These signs provide information on how to properly wash and care for various types of clothing, including delicate fabrics, synthetic materials, and more. Understanding these signs is crucial for maintaining the quality and durability of your wardrobe. In this guide, we will explore the meanings behind some of the most commonly used washing symbols in Japan.
1、Dry-Cleaning Only (D/C)
This symbol indicates that the fabric or item cannot be washed or cleaned with water. Instead, it should be professionally dry-cleaned using a solvent that does not damage the fabric or cause shrinkage. It is important to note that some items may be able to be washed with water at a low temperature, but only after consulting the care label or asking the manufacturer.
2、Hand Wash Only (H/W)
The hand wash symbol indicates that the item can be gently cleaned by hand using cold water and mild soap. This is suitable for lightweight fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk. It is important to avoid wringing or rubbing the fabric, as this can cause damage. Instead, gently swish the fabric in the washing water and rinse thoroughly before hanging to dry.
3、Machine Washable (M)
The machine washable symbol indicates that the item can be safely washed in a washing machine using cold or warm water and a mild detergent. However, it is still important to follow the care instructions provided on the label or tag. Some machine-washable items may require special care, such as avoiding high temperatures or using a gentle cycle. Additionally, some items may need to be washed separately from other fabrics to prevent color transfer or damage.
4、Do Not Wash (N/W)
The do not wash symbol is used to indicate that the item should not be washed under any circumstances. This could be due to the fabric being too delicate or sensitive to water, or because it contains specific chemicals or finishes that would be damaged by washing. If you are unsure about whether an item can be washed, it is best to consult the care label or ask the manufacturer for guidance.
5、Bleach Safe (B/S)
The bleach safe symbol indicates that the fabric or item can be safely exposed to bleach or other chlorine-containing products when washing. This is useful for whitening and removing stains from colored fabrics. However, it is still important to use appropriate amounts of bleach and to test a small area of the fabric first to ensure it does not cause discoloration or damage.
6、Tumble Dry on Low Heat (T/L)
The tumble dry symbol indicates that the item can be safely dried using a dryer on a low heat setting. This is suitable for many types of fabrics, including cotton, wool, and synthetic blends. However, it is still important to follow care instructions provided on the label or tag, as some items may require air drying instead of tumble drying. Additionally, it is recommended to remove items from the dryer promptly once they are dry to prevent overheating and possible damage.
7、Iron at Low Heat (I/L)
The iron at low heat symbol indicates that the item can be safely ironed using a low heat setting. This is suitable for many types of fabrics, including cotton, linen, and silk. However, it is important to follow care instructions provided on the label or tag, as some items may require steam cleaning instead of ironing. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid pressing overly hot or using metal objects like scissors or hangers on delicate fabrics to prevent damage.
8、Do Not Iron (N/I)
The do not iron symbol is used to indicate that the item should not be ironed at all. This could be due to the fabric being too delicate or sensitive to heat, or because it contains specific chemicals or finishes that would be damaged by ironing. If you are unsure about whether an item can be ironed, it is best to consult the care label or ask the manufacturer for guidance.
9、Do Not Wring (N/W)
The do not wring symbol is used to indicate that the item should not be wrung or squeezed tightly after washing or drying. This is especially important for delicate fabrics such as silk or cashmere, which can become stretched or damaged by excessive wringing. Instead, gently press the item with a clean towel or cloth to remove excess water and shape it into its original form.
10、Do Not Fold (N/F)
The do not fold symbol is used to indicate that the item should not be folded during storage or transportation. This is especially important for delicate fabrics such as chiffon or organza, which can become wrinkled easily. Instead, store the item flat on a shelf or in a drawer with minimal folding required. Additionally, it is recommended to keep items in their original packaging whenever possible to protect them from damage during transport.
Articles related to the knowledge points of this article：
The Impact of Importing Textile Waste on the Environment and Economy
Title: Antifungal Solutions for Textiles in Shantou: Combating Mold and Bacterial Growth
Title: Ningbo Weiton Textiles: A Leading Player in Chinas Textile Industry
