Iron, medium temperature
An ISO 3758 iron symbol with two dots, indicating ironing at a medium temperature, up to a soleplate of about 150 °C.
What it means
Two dots on the iron permit medium heat, suitable for wool, polyester and silk blends. It is hot enough to smooth most everyday creases but below the temperature that would damage protein and synthetic fibres.
What to do
Use the medium (wool or two-dot) setting, ironing slightly damp fabric or with a burst of steam for stubborn creases. Iron wool and silk on the reverse, and keep the iron moving to avoid shine.
How to use this term
Use this ironing symbol before applying heat, steam or pressure to the garment surface.
- Read iron, medium temperature with the other symbols on the same care label; the strictest symbol wins.
- Match the instruction to the garment's most fragile part, including trims, lining, prints and finishes.
- If the label, fabric behaviour and stain method disagree, test a hidden area or choose the lower-risk route.
Common mistake
Do not press over a stain, print, coating or delicate fibre until you know heat is allowed and the mark is gone.
For the broader method, use the Beginner laundry guide and then return to this term when the label changes the safe option.
Related terms
Sources
- ISO 3758:2012 Textiles — Care labelling code using symbols — International Organization for Standardization