What does Iron Medium Heat mean?
Quick Answer
The iron medium heat symbol (an iron outline with two dots) means iron at up to 150°C — equivalent to 300°F, the wool setting on most irons. This setting suits wool, polyester, and mixed-fibre garments. Steam may be used carefully; test on an inconspicuous area if unsure, and iron on the reverse side for delicate items.
Also known as: two dot iron symbol, medium heat iron symbol, wool iron setting, 150°C iron symbol, warm iron sign, medium iron sign
Detailed explanation
The iron medium heat symbol (an iron icon with two dots) corresponds to a maximum of 150°C (300°F) — the "wool" setting on most irons. This temperature suits wool, polyester, and mixed-fibre garments that need occasional pressing but would be scorched or glazed by the high cotton setting. At 150°C, wrinkles in wool and polyester can be set effectively, but the iron must be used with care: polyester has a relatively low melting point and direct contact with a 150°C iron surface without a pressing cloth causes a permanent semi-glossy "glaze" on the fabric surface — an extremely common and completely preventable form of iron damage.
How to follow the Iron Medium Heat symbol:
- 1
Iron at medium temperature setting
- 2
Steam may be used carefully
- 3
Good for wool and polyester blends
- 4
Test on hidden area first
When does this symbol appear on care labels?
- For wool trousers, skirts, and jackets
- For polyester blouses and dresses requiring light pressing
- For mixed-fibre garments where the composition limits the safe maximum temperature
- For viscose (rayon) and modal fabrics
- For synthetic jersey fabrics that respond to gentle heat
Tips and Best Practices
- Always use a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric — this is non-negotiable for polyester; direct contact at 150°C creates a permanent glaze on the surface
- Use brief steam bursts on wool rather than sustained steam — too much direct steam can temporarily distort the weave
- Press wool on the reverse side when possible to avoid flattening the texture of the knit or weave
- For wool trouser creases, place a damp pressing cloth on the crease line and press firmly — do not rub the iron back and forth
- Allow the garment to cool completely before folding or wearing — the press is set as the fibres cool; moving the garment while still hot undoes the press
- For blended fabrics (e.g. 60% wool, 40% polyester), iron at the temperature appropriate for the most heat-sensitive fibre — always the lower setting
What happens if this symbol is ignored
Using high heat on medium-rated fabrics causes glazing on polyester (permanent shiny marks), scorching of wool, and damage to any synthetic or elastic elements in the garment. Using a pressing cloth consistently prevents the most common form of medium-heat iron damage.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Ironing polyester directly without a pressing cloth — immediate, permanent glazing results
- Applying excessive steam directly to wool without a pressing cloth — can cause localised shrinkage
- Ironing a blended garment at the temperature for the most heat-tolerant fibre rather than the most heat-sensitive one
Regional Note (US)
300°F - Medium/wool setting on iron
Common Materials
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Frequently Asked Questions
Related Ironing Symbols
Iron High Heat
Iron at high temperature - up to 200°C (390°F)
Iron Low Heat
Iron at low temperature only - up to 110°C (230°F)
Iron Without Steam
Iron without steam - dry iron only
Iron With Steam
Iron with steam allowed - steam is safe to use
Do Not Iron
Do not iron - heat will damage the fabric
Iron Any Temperature
Iron at any temperature setting
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