You know what can happen if you mix washing a dark colored garment, especially bright reds and oranges, with your white clothes. Of course, it's not entirely your fault – it's bound to happen because commercial clothing manufacturers often use dyes that are prone to bleeding. Nonetheless, you could have prevented it, too!

So if upon taking out a laundry load from the washing machine you discover your favorite white shirt now sports pinkish blotches or your linens have adopted an unwelcome tinge, it's beyond frustrating.

But there are ways to restore items that picked up fugitive colors in the wash cycle – ways we will cover in this article.

What is Color Bleed and Why Does It Happen?

There are three best words to describe color bleeding from experience: it's inconvenient, frustrating, and avoidable. Color bleed occurs when the dyes in some fabrics dissolve and leach out during the washing process, latching onto other garments. This typically happens under certain conditions that can often be controlled or prevented. The three common causes of color bleed in clothes are:

• Hot Water: Using hot water can cause the dye to loosen from the fabric, making it more likely to transfer to other items in the wash. This is why many laundry guides recommend washing clothes in cold water to keep colors from running.
• Poor Quality Dye: Cheaper dyes are less stable and more likely to bleed, especially if they haven’t been set properly during the manufacturing process. This is often the case with bright, vibrant colors like reds and oranges.
• Fabric Type: Natural fibers like cotton and wool are more absorbent, which means they’re more likely to soak up loose dyes in the wash. On the other hand, synthetic fabrics like polyester are less absorbent but can still release dye under the right (or wrong) conditions.
• Washing Conditions: Overloading the washing machine or using harsh detergents can increase the chances of colors running. Crowded loads mean more friction, which can lead to more dye transfer. So properly space your clothes to ensure the water can do its job of diluting and washing away loose dyes.

Immediate Steps to Take When You Notice Color Bleed

You’ve just opened the washing machine and noticed that dreaded color bleed. Don’t panic just yet! There are immediate steps you can take to salvage your clothes. Acting quickly is key to preventing the dye from setting permanently.

Step 1: Keep Clothes Wet – The first rule is to keep the affected clothes wet. Do not dry them, as heat will set the dye, making it nearly impossible to remove. If the clothes have already gone through the dryer, the color bleed may be more challenging to address, but it's still worth trying to fix.

Step 2: Rinse with Cold Water – Immediately rinse the stained clothes with cold water. The cold water helps to stop the dye from setting further and can flush out some of the loose dye. Hold the garments under running water until the water runs clear.

Step 3: Soak in Vinegar Solution – Prepare a solution of cold water and white vinegar (about one cup of vinegar per gallon of water). Soak the affected clothes for 30 minutes. Vinegar helps to set the dye and prevent further bleeding.

Step 4: Use Color-safe Bleach – For whites and colorfast clothes, you can use a color-safe bleach to treat the stains. Add the bleach to the washing machine and run a cycle with cold water. Be sure to check the garment labels to ensure they are bleach safe.

Step 5: Try a Color Remover Product – If the above steps don’t work, you might need to use a commercial color remover. Products like Carbona Color Run Remover or Rit Color Remover are specifically designed to tackle color bleed. Follow the instructions on the packaging carefully for the best results.

Step 6: Rewash with Care – After treating the stains, rewash the clothes separately in cold water. Add a dye-trapping sheet to the wash to capture any remaining loose dyes. This extra step helps ensure no residual dye will transfer to other clothes.

Want to Prevent Color Bleed for Good? Partner with CORE Cleaners!

Color bleeding on clothes can quickly turn from a minor inconvenience into a disaster, leaving your favorite garments unwearable. Don't let this happen to you! At CORE Cleaners, we specialize in preventing color bleed and ensuring your clothes look their best, wash after wash.

We've been in the garment care industry since 1950, proudly serving thousands of customers in Missouri and Illinois. Aside from professional dry cleaning and laundry, we also offer specialized services like leather and suede cleaning, wedding dress preservation, household linen cleaning, and more!

Have questions or need to schedule a service? Contact us today at (888) 503-7323! Send us an email at applecleaners.com or visit our website to learn more about our individual services.

FAQs on Color Bleed and Laundry Care

Can Professional Dry Cleaning Help with Color Bleed?

Yes, professional dry cleaning can often help with color bleed, especially for delicate or valuable items, like a suit or a silk blouse. Dry cleaners use environmentally friendly solvents and specialized equipment designed to remove dye transfer without damaging the fabric. Look for services that have experience dealing with color bleed and discuss the specific issue with them to ensure they use the best approach for your garment.

What colors bleed in the wash?

Bright and dark colors are the most likely to bleed in the wash. Reds, oranges, and blues are notorious for their tendency to transfer dye. New clothes, particularly those with deep or vibrant colors, are at a higher risk because the excess dye hasn’t fully set into the fabric. Always wash these items separately for the first few washes, or with similar colors, to prevent dye from spreading to lighter clothes.

What should I do if a color bleed occurs on a special garment like a wedding dress?

If color bleed happens on a special garment like a wedding dress, it's best to seek professional help immediately. Explain the situation in detail, including what caused the color bleed and any steps you've already taken. Avoid using home remedies on such precious items, as they can sometimes cause further damage. Professional cleaners have the expertise and tools to treat the dress effectively and safely, helping to restore it to its original state.