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Tumble Dry Symbols on Clothing Labels: What They Mean
The small symbols on clothing labels tell you how to dry each item. Here is what the tumble dry symbols mean, and which dryer setting to choose.
Last reviewed October 23, 2026. Written and reviewed by the Plano Dryer Pros team. How we create content
A square with a circle inside means you can tumble dry. Dots inside the circle show the heat: one dot is low, two is medium, three is high. A solid circle means no heat, bars underneath mean a gentler cycle, and a crossed-out symbol means do not tumble dry. Always follow the care label.
Key takeaways
- A square with a circle means tumble drying is allowed.
- Dots show the heat: one is low, two is medium, three is high.
- A solid circle means no heat, and a cross means do not tumble dry.
- Bars under the square mean a gentler or permanent press cycle.
The tumble dry symbols
| What the symbol looks like | What it means | Dryer setting to choose |
|---|---|---|
| A square with an empty circle inside | Tumble drying is allowed | Normal |
| The circle with one dot | Tumble dry on low heat | Low heat or Delicates |
| The circle with two dots | Tumble dry on medium heat | Medium heat or Permanent press |
| The circle with three dots | Tumble dry on high heat | High heat or Normal |
| The circle filled in solid | Tumble dry with no heat | Air fluff or No heat |
| One bar under the square | Permanent press, a reduced cycle | Permanent press |
| Two bars under the square | Gentle or delicate cycle | Delicates |
| The square and circle crossed out | Do not tumble dry | Air dry instead |
What does the square with a circle mean on a clothing label?
It means the item can be tumble dried. Dots inside the circle show the heat: one dot is low, two is medium and three is high. A solid circle means no heat, and a cross over the symbol means do not tumble dry. Bars under the square mean a gentler cycle.
Matching the label to your dryer
Dryers name their settings differently, so match the meaning, not the exact name. Low heat may be called Delicates or Low, medium may be Permanent press or Casual, and high may be Normal or Cotton. See dryer settings and lights explained for the common ones.
Which dryer setting matches one dot on the label?
One dot means low heat, so choose Delicates or Low heat on your dryer. Names vary by brand, so look for the setting that uses the lowest heat, and check your manual. Using more heat than the label allows can shrink or damage the item.
If the label is missing or unclear
- Choose low heat or air fluff, and check the item often
- Check the fabric: delicate, stretchy or embellished items usually need low heat or air drying
- Wash and dry similar items together, and do not overload the drum
- Remove items while slightly damp if you are unsure, and finish them by air drying
What happens if I tumble dry something labeled do not tumble dry?
It may shrink, warp, melt or lose its finish, depending on the fabric, and the damage usually cannot be undone. Follow the label, and air dry the item instead. If it already went in, take it out as soon as you notice, and let it cool and air dry.
When a dryer will not follow the label
If a low or medium setting leaves clothes damp, or the dryer runs hotter than the setting should, a restricted vent or a faulty thermostat may be the cause. See takes too long to dry, dryer not heating and the vent safety guide.
Sources
- Care-label standards, including ASTM D5489 (Standard Guide for Care Symbols for Care Instructions on Consumer Textile Products) and ISO 3758
- Your dryer’s owner’s manual, which governs over any general guidance on this page, because control names and behavior vary by brand and model
Frequently asked questions
What do the dots on a dryer symbol mean?
They show the heat: one dot is low, two is medium, three is high.
What does a filled-in circle mean on a care label?
Tumble dry with no heat, which is air only.
What does a crossed-out tumble dry symbol mean?
Do not tumble dry. Air dry the item.
Are care symbols the same everywhere?
The common ones are widely used, but check the label on each item and your dryer’s manual.
Get your dryer working again
Call and a person will answer, or request a repair online. You get the full price in writing before any work starts.