What does Do Not Wash mean?

Detailed explanation

The do not wash symbol signals that all water-based cleaning — machine washing, hand washing, and even wet spot cleaning — is prohibited. This symbol appears on garments where moisture causes irreversible structural damage: tailored suits and jackets where water breaks down the glued canvas interlining and causes the outer fabric to bubble; leather and suede where water causes permanent staining and stiffening; items with water-soluble finishes, stiffeners, or adhesive coatings; and some acetate and viscose garments that dissolve or distort when wet. The only appropriate cleaning method is professional dry cleaning or another specialist method indicated on the label.

How to follow the Do Not Wash symbol:

1. 1

   Do not place this item in water of any kind

   no machine wash, no hand wash, no wet spot cleaning of any kind

2. 2

   For routine freshening

   hang the garment on a shaped hanger after each wearing and allow it to air for several hours in a well-ventilated room to release body heat and surface odours

3. 3

   For minor surface marks: apply a small amount of dry cleaning solvent spray (available from hardware stores) to a clean cloth, then dab the mark

   do not rub; test on a hidden seam allowance first

4. 4

   For leather or suede

   use a specialist dry-suede brush or leather conditioner rather than any liquid product

5. 5

   For significant soiling or staining

   take to a professional dry cleaner; tell them the stain type and cause so they can pre-treat with the correct solvent

6. 6

   Store in a breathable cotton garment bag

   not a plastic bag, which traps moisture and solvent vapours

7. 7

   If the item gets wet from rain, blot dry immediately with a clean cloth and allow to air dry completely in good ventilation before returning to storage

When does this symbol appear on care labels?

• Take the item to a professional dry cleaner — this is the only safe option
• For structured suits and formal jackets with fused or glued internal construction
• For leather and suede items where water causes permanent marking and stiffening
• For items with metallic thread, mirror work, or water-soluble surface coatings
• For vintage clothing where the fabric composition is uncertain — when in doubt, dry clean

Common mistakes to avoid

• Spot cleaning with a damp cloth — even a small amount of water on suede, acetate, or certain silk blends leaves a permanent water mark
• Thinking the item can be steam-cleaned at home — steam is water vapour and causes the same damage as washing
• Avoiding dry cleaning entirely to save money and wearing the garment until heavily soiled — soiling embedded in fibres causes chemical degradation; infrequent professional cleaning extends garment life
• Hanging leather or suede in damp conditions — moisture causes mildew, stiffening, and permanent surface damage

Common Materials