Everything you need to know about laundry symbols, sportswear care, and extending the life of your clothes.
Sportswear is made from technical fabrics that wick away sweat, dry quickly, and provide optimal comfort during exercise. To maintain these properties, it's important to follow the washing instructions on the label. On this page, we explain all laundry symbols and provide practical tips to keep your sportswear looking great for longer.
Why are laundry labels important?
The laundry label tells you exactly how a garment should be washed, dried, ironed, and cared for. By following the instructions:
- The fit is maintained
- You prevent shrinkage and wear
- Colors stay vibrant longer
- Sportswear retains its breathable properties
- Clothes last longer
These instructions are especially important for sportswear. Technical materials such as polyester, elastane, and nylon can be damaged by incorrect temperatures or aggressive drying methods.
Overview of all laundry symbols
Washing
| Washing allowed: This means the garment can be machine washed. |  |
| Wash at 30°C: Suitable for light soiling and delicate fabrics. |  |
| Wash at 40°C: Suitable for normal use. |  |
| Wash at 50°C: Suitable for slightly heavier soiled clothing. |  |
| Wash at 60°C: Suitable for heavily soiled clothing and towels. |  |
| Wash at 70°C: Mainly for workwear and special textiles. |  |
| Wash at 95°C: Boil wash. Only suitable for very heat-resistant fabrics. |  |
| Gentle wash cycle: Use a gentle or permanent press program. |  |
| Very gentle wash cycle: Wash with extra care. |  |
| Hand wash: Wash gently by hand only. |  |
|
Do not wash: Do not wash with water. Only professional cleaning allowed. |
 |
Bleaching
| Bleaching allowed: All types of bleach are allowed. |  |
| Chlorine bleach allowed: Bleaches with chlorine may be used. |  |
| Oxygen bleach only: Bleaching allowed without chlorine. |  |
| Do not bleach: Do not use bleach. This is common for sportswear as bleach damages elastic fibers. |  |
Drying
| Line dry: Clothes can be hung on a clothesline. |  |
| Drip dry: Hang directly without wringing. |
|
| Flat dry: Lay flat to dry. Suitable for delicate fabrics. |  |
| Dry in shade: Prevents discoloration from sunlight. |  |
| Line dry in shade: Hang in a shaded place. |  |
| Flat dry in shade: Lay flat to dry without direct sunlight. |  |
| Drip dry in shade: Allow to drip dry naturally in a shaded place. |  |
Tumble Drying
| Tumble drying allowed: Clothes can be tumble dried. |  |
| Low temperature: Dry at low temperature. |  |
| Normal temperature: Dry at standard temperature. |  |
| High temperature: Dry at high temperature. This is becoming rare. |  |
| Do not tumble dry: Do not use a tumble dryer. |  |
Important for sportswear: Many sportswear items should not be tumble dried as heat damages elastane and technical fibers.
Ironing
| Ironing allowed: The garment can be ironed. |  |
| Low temperature (110°C): Suitable for synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon. |  |
| Medium temperature (150°C): Suitable for wool and blended fabrics. |  |
| High temperature (200°C): Suitable for cotton and linen. |  |
| Steam allowed: Normal ironing including steam function. |  |
| Do not steam: Ironing allowed, but without steam. |  |
| Do not iron: Do not use an iron. Sportswear usually does not need to be ironed. |  |
Professional cleaning
| Dry cleaning allowed: Professional cleaning possible. |  |
| Gentle dry cleaning: Mild cleaning process. |  |
| Very gentle dry cleaning: Clean with extra care. |  |
| Cleaning with specific solvents: Specialised cleaning only. |  |
| Gentle F-cleaning: Mild treatment. |  |
| Very gentle F-cleaning: Extra gentle treatment. |  |
| Professional wet cleaning: Professional cleaning with water. |  |
| Mild wet cleaning: Gentle wet cleaning. |  |
| Very mild wet cleaning: Extra gentle wet cleaning. |  |
| Do not dry clean: Professional cleaning not allowed. |  |
Washing advice for sportswear
Sportswear requires a different approach than regular clothing.
Do this
- Wash sportswear inside out
- Use a mild detergent
- Wash at a maximum of 30°C or 40°C
- Close zippers before washing
- Use a sports wash program if available
- Air dry clothing
- Wash immediately after intensive workouts
Avoid this
- Using fabric softener
- Fabric softener clogs the fibers, causing breathable properties to be lost.
- High temperatures
- Can damage elastane.
- Using a dryer
- Shortens the lifespan of technical fabrics.
- Using bleach
- Can affect colors and fibers.
- Ironing at high temperatures
- Can damage prints and logos.
How often should sportswear be washed?
This depends on the activity.
After every workout
- Running clothing
- Fitness clothing
- Cycling clothing
- Compression clothing
After wearing multiple times
- Sports jackets
- Hoodies
- Tracksuits
In case of heavy perspiration, immediate washing is always recommended.
Common mistakes when washing sportswear
Washing too hot
Hot water affects elastic fibers.
Using fabric softener
One of the most common mistakes.
Leaving it wet for too long
Bacteria and odors get more chance to develop.
Drying on the heater
Can deform the fabric.
Washing together with towels
Towels cause extra wear and pilling.
How to keep sportswear looking good for longer
- Always follow the washing label.
- Wash at a low temperature.
- Do not use fabric softener.
- Allow clothes to dry naturally.
- Wash similar colors together.
- Do not use too much detergent.
- Avoid the dryer when possible.
With proper care, quality sportswear can last for years without losing comfort or performance.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Wash Labels and Sportswear
What does a wash tub with 30 degrees mean?
The garment may be washed at a maximum of 30°C.
Can sportswear be tumble dried?
In most cases, no. Always check the wash label. Heat can damage technical fabrics.
Why can't I use fabric softener?
Fabric softener can reduce the breathable and moisture-wicking properties of sportswear.
What does a crossed-out triangle mean?
No bleach may be used.
What does a crossed-out dryer mean?
The garment should not be tumble dried.
How do I prevent bad odors in sportswear?
Wash sportswear immediately after use, do not leave it wet, and use a suitable sports detergent.
What does hand wash on the label mean?
The garment must be gently hand washed and usually should not be machine washed.
Can I wash sportswear at 60 degrees?
This is usually not recommended. Always check the wash label. Most sportswear is washed at 30°C or 40°C.
Why are there dots in an ironing symbol?
The dots indicate the maximum ironing temperature:
- • = low
- •• = medium
- ••• = high
How do I read a wash label correctly?
Read the label from left to right:
- Washing
- Bleaching
- Drying
- Ironing
- Professional cleaning
This way you know exactly how to safely care for your clothes.
Conclusion
Wash labels may seem complicated, but they contain all the information needed to optimally care for clothing. By understanding the wash symbols and applying the correct washing routine, your sportswear will remain fresh, comfortable, and in top condition for longer. Save this guide as a reference so you always know what each wash symbol means.