What does Dry Flat mean?

Detailed explanation

The dry flat symbol (a square with a horizontal line in the centre) specifies that the garment must be laid horizontally on a flat surface to dry — not hung, not placed in a dryer, and not hung over a line or radiator. This instruction is critical for garments that will stretch permanently under their own wet weight if hung vertically. Wool, cashmere, and loosely knitted structures absorb large amounts of water and become very heavy when wet, causing significant elongation if suspended at any point. The instruction to dry flat is often misunderstood as a mild suggestion rather than a structural requirement — it is not.

How to follow the Dry Flat symbol:

1. 1

   Prepare the drying surface before removing the garment from the wash

   lay a clean dry bath towel flat on a table, bed, or clean floor

2. 2

   Lift the wet garment carefully from the machine or basin, supporting its full weight at all times; do not hold it by one corner or edge while wet

3. 3

   Remove excess water by rolling the garment in the prepared towel and pressing firmly

   never wring; then unroll and transfer directly to a fresh flat surface

4. 4

   Use your hands to reshape the garment immediately to its original dimensions: set the shoulder width, chest width, sleeve length, and hem

5. 5

   For ribbed cuffs, hems, and neckbands: gently stretch the rib to its correct wearing size

   rib tends to dry tighter than intended if left unset

6. 6

   Flip the garment every 2–3 hours to allow the underside to dry; moisture trapped beneath slows drying and can cause mildew in thick fabrics

7. 7

   Use a mesh drying rack (elevated above the surface) if available

   air circulates both above and below the garment, drying it faster and more evenly

8. 8

   Do not move the garment to hang it up "just to finish drying"

   keep it flat until completely dry

When does this symbol appear on care labels?

• For all woollen knitwear — jumpers, cardigans, jerseys, and woollen dresses
• For cashmere and merino wool items, which are particularly prone to stretching when wet
• For chunky or heavily knitted garments regardless of fibre content
• For loosely crocheted items and macramé
• For any item that has previously stretched when line dried

Common mistakes to avoid

• Hanging the garment "just for a moment" while preparing the drying surface — even a few minutes of hanging while wet causes visible stretching in fine knitwear
• Not reshaping the garment before leaving it to dry — leaving it in a crumpled heap results in permanent fold creases
• Drying on a wooden or metal surface that transfers marks — always use a clean towel or a mesh rack
• Not flipping the garment during drying — the underside stays damp much longer and can develop mildew in thick woollen fabrics

Common Materials