Laundry Symbol Saturday: Do Not Iron

The "Do Not Iron" laundry symbol is a warning that ironing a particular fabric could damage it. Some fabrics, such as silk, wool, and some synthetics, are heat-sensitive and can melt, scorch, or shrink if they are ironed at too high a temperature. Other fabrics, such as those with delicate embellishments, such as lace or sequins, can be damaged by the heat of an iron.

Here are some of the fabrics that should not be ironed:

• Silk
• Wool
• Polyester
• Acrylic
• Nylon
• Rayon
• Spandex
• Lace
• Sequins

If you see the "Do Not Iron" laundry symbol on a garment, it is best to heed the warning. Ironing these fabrics could damage them and ruin your clothes.

Of course, the irony is that most of us don't iron our clothes anyway. So, the "Do Not Iron" laundry symbol is kind of moot. But it's still good to know what fabrics should not be ironed, just in case you ever do decide to take the time to press your clothes.