READ YOUR LABEL

Non-chlorine bleach symbol: what the striped triangle permits

Understand the triangle with two diagonal lines, compare other bleach symbols, and check the garment and product before using an additive.

Permission to use a suitable bleach, only when needed

Two diagonal lines inside a triangle permit non-chlorine bleach and exclude chlorine bleach. Bleach remains optional. If an additive is needed, check both the garment instructions and the exact product before using it.

Compare the marks

A cross and two parallel diagonal lines mean different things. A crossed outline triangle on an international label also prohibits bleaching.

Two lines: non-chlorine only

Triangle outline; two diagonal lines inside.

Oxygen bleach is the permitted category; chlorine bleach is excluded. The product must also be suitable for the item.

Empty triangle: either type

Triangle outline.

Chlorine or oxygen bleach is permitted when needed. Product directions and the remaining garment instructions still apply.

Crossed triangle: no bleach

Triangle outline; solid filled triangle; cross through the mark.

Bleaching is prohibited, including oxygen bleach. This displayed example is the US crossed, filled triangle.

Check the item, the product and the purpose

What does the full label allow?

Read the triangle and any accompanying words. Do not assume a white item permits chlorine bleach or that a coloured item permits oxygen bleach. If the instruction is unclear or missing, ask the manufacturer before adding bleach.

Is this product suitable?

Read the container, including fabric exclusions and use directions. Non-chlorine and colour-safe are not promises of compatibility with every garment. Some oxygen stain removers exclude wool and silk; the garment’s permission does not remove those product exclusions.

Is bleach already in the wash?

Check the detergent and any stain-treatment product rather than considering only a separate bleach bottle. A laundry additive may combine several ingredients. If the label does not make its bleaching type clear, check the product maker’s guidance.

Will ordinary washing meet the need?

You can follow a permitted wash with suitable detergent without adding optional bleach. A persistent mark does not authorize stronger chemistry, extra heat or a longer soak than the item and product allow.

Put the instructions into practice

Read before treating the stain
Check washing, bleaching and written exceptions before treating. Include trims and finishes; fibre content alone cannot establish suitability.
Match a product to the permitted treatment
If using bleach, choose a suitable non-chlorine laundry product and follow any stated colourfastness test. Passing a spot test does not cancel a do-not-bleach instruction.
Use the directed amount and method
Follow the product and machine directions for dosing, placement and timing. Do not invent a concentrated stain paste or pour product straight onto the garment unless that exact use is instructed.
Keep within the care limits
Use compatible wash settings and complete the directed rinse. If the treatment requires conditions the garment prohibits, choose a different permitted method rather than exceeding the label.

Avoid these mistakes

Do not replace non-chlorine bleach with a smaller dose of chlorine bleach.
Do not mix bleach with vinegar, ammonia or other household chemicals; use products only as directed.
Do not treat a bleach permission as proof that the wash disinfects the item.

Turn your label into a checklist

Choose the marks actually printed on your item. Keep the complete instructions together, then copy or print your checklist.

Find the marks on my label