Dry clean, petroleum solvent (F)
Professional dry clean using petroleum-based solvent only.
What to do
Take it to a dry cleaner and point out the 'F'. It calls for petroleum-based solvent only.
What to avoid
The 'F' restricts it to petroleum solvent, so it isn't cleaned with perc.
How to spot it on a label
Find the final circle on the label and read the capital letter in its center. An F has one vertical stem with two straight horizontal arms and no curved loop. That letter is addressed to the dry cleaner and restricts the professional process.
Easy to confuse with
- Dry clean, petroleum solvent (F)Dry clean with "P" solvents
Check the mark
Look for a curved loop on the letter. F has two open horizontal arms; P closes its upper stroke into a rounded loop.
- Dry clean, petroleum solvent (F)Professional wet cleaning (W)
Check the mark
Check whether the letter is built from a vertical stem or a zigzag. F has one upright with two horizontal arms; W has two joined lower points.
On a real label
Structured coat
Read together: Do not wash, bleach, or tumble dry; iron on low and have it professionally dry cleaned with petroleum-based solvent only.
- Category
- Professional care
- Appears on
- US and international labels
Related symbols
Common questions
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What does a circle with an F mean?
- It permits professional dry cleaning with petroleum-based solvent only. The F is an instruction for the cleaner.
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Can a cleaner use perchloroethylene on an F-label garment?
- No. The F restricts the process to petroleum-based solvent, so perchloroethylene is not permitted.
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How do I tell an F dry-clean symbol from a P?
- Look at the top of the letter. P has a curved closed loop, while F has two straight open arms.
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Does an F circle mean I can wash the garment at home?
- No. The F only addresses professional dry cleaning. The washtub symbol elsewhere on the label controls home washing.