GarmentCare Guide 
Homes and Gardens explains that care labels contain instructions for several different operations. A tub concerns washing, and a hand in the tub indicates hand washing. A crossed washing tub is a restriction, rather than a request to choose a slightly gentler machine setting.
Do not stop once the washing instruction has been understood. The guide also covers drying, ironing and bleaching, whose symbols control later treatment. Checking the complete label helps avoid damage caused by following one stage correctly and then choosing an unsuitable next step. Read the instructions for the actual item before combining it with the rest of a laundry load.
