EN 
KA 
RU Blog
Packaging never lies: what do the symbols tell us about the product?
When we choose ceramic tiles, furniture or bathroom accessories, we often focus only on the visual. However, the truth about quality is depicted on the packaging. Small, often unnoticed symbols tell us the real story: how durable the product is, what it is protected against and whether it is certified.
Reading these “hieroglyphs” correctly is a smart consumer’s superpower. This will help you choose a product that will last you and avoid disappointment caused by poor-quality material. We offer you an expert guide to recognizing the symbols.
1. Symbols of ceramic and porcelain tiles
Tile is a long-term investment. To prevent it from discoloring or cracking, pay attention to the following indicators:
Scratch and abrasion resistance (PEI Rating): Often depicted as a rotating disc or a foot.
What it means: This determines how resistant the surface is to friction.
Tip: For the entrance hall and kitchen, do not choose a class lower than PEI IV. For the bathroom, PEI III is quite sufficient.
Moisture resistance (water absorption): Depicted as a drop or cloud.
What it means: This shows how porous the tile is.
Tip: For outdoor spaces (balconies, terraces), you definitely need frost-resistant porcelain stoneware, with a water absorption of less than 0.5%, so that frost does not crack the tile.
Stain resistance: Depicted as a flask or a clean surface.
What it means: How easily chemicals (wine, coffee, cleaning products) are removed from the surface.
Anti-slip surface (R class): This is shown on the surface with a boot.
Tip: For dry rooms, R9 is standard, but for a shower area or patio, look for R11 or higher to prevent falls.
2. Symbols for taps, Showers and accessories
Modern plumbing is high-tech. Here's what their signs mean:
Water-saving function: A leaf with a drop of water or the inscription "Eco".
What it means: The tap has a built-in aerator that mixes water with air. This reduces consumption by up to 50% so that the water flow does not seem weak.
Anti-limescale technology: A hand that cleans the surface.
What it means: The shower head has flexible silicone tips, which allow you to easily remove deposits with one finger.
Thermostatic protection: Thermometer mark or "38°C".
Safety: This function blocks the water temperature at 38 degrees, which protects children and the elderly from scalding with boiling water.
3. Ceramic sanitary ware (toilets and washbasins)
Antibacterial surface: Microbe with a crossed-out mark.
What it means: The enamel contains silver ions or a special coating that stops the growth of bacteria by 99%.
Easy-to-clean enamel: Symbol of a shiny surface.
Advantage: The surface is so smooth at a microscopic level that dirt and water do not stick to it.
Silent flush mechanism: A speaker without sound or a feather.
Comfort: Indicates a special flushing system (e.g. Rimless), which minimizes noise.
The main rule: Do not use a regular room chandelier in the bathroom. You need at least IP44 (protection against splashes) near the mirror, and IP65 for the shower head FSC certified furniture: The symbol for wood.
Sustainability: Whether it is bathroom or outdoor furniture, this symbol guarantees that the wood is obtained from environmentally friendly, controlled forests.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can I lay wall tiles on the floor if I like the design? - Generally no. Wall tiles have a low wear resistance (PEI). Walking on it will cause scratches and wear on the surface. Always check the “foot” symbol on the box.
What if I install a regular light in the bathroom? - This is dangerous. Moisture will damage the contacts, which can cause a short circuit. Always look for the IP44 symbol for the bathroom.
Is the “Anti-Limescale” function really necessary? - Yes, especially in hard water. Without this function, shower heads will clog up within a few months and the water flow will be poor.
