Laundry 101: How to Prevent Color from Fading

Are you a rookie who is learning how to do laundry?

Have you spent hours googling ways to get that red wine stain out of your favorite dress?

And are you just sick of buying new t-shirts because your current ones look old and faded after a couple of washes?

Before you head back to the store, here are some ways you can prevent color from fading from your clothes.

Read Washing Care Instructions

Many fabrics require extra care and shouldn’t be tossed into the laundry machine with a cheap detergent.

So, make sure you are reading and, of course, following the laundry instructions. If the fabric is dry clean only, opt for dry cleaning services with an eco-friendly cleaner like Imperial Valet Sterling Cleaners.

If you are in the greater DC Metropolitan area, we have quick, reliable, and professional dry cleaning and tailoring, including wash and fold services-pick-up and delivery.

Reverse Inside Out

This one is a no-brainer but turn your clothes inside out to prevent color from fading.

Don’t Dry Them in The Sun

Heat isn’t a huge fan of color. Hot water and the heat from the sun can both result in color fading.

If possible, line-dry instead, or better yet, opt for a green eco-friendly dry cleaner.

Add Salt – Yes, Salt!

Here’s a neat trick not many people know. Adding about half a cup of salt to a new garment in the first wash will help lock in the color. This is a must-try, especially with colors that tend to bleed.

Avoid Bleach and Harsh Detergents.

Check to see if you are using the right detergent. Many detergents in the market today are too harsh and contain bleach. Not only do the chemicals in these detergents cause skin irritation, but some are also toxic for you, your family, and the environment.

Organic Detergents are the Best

There are many organic detergents that are safe for your skin and do not damage the environment. Switch to organic detergents and wash your clothes in cold water instead of hot.

Also, a baking soda and vinegar mixture make for a great organic cleaner.

All these methods prevent color from fading from your clothes and fabrics and will make them fresh and crisp.

When In Doubt, Run to Your Eco-Friendly Dry Cleaner

Not sure if you should hand wash? Why not play it safe and drop your clothes off at your eco-friendly drying cleaning service provider. Imperial Valet Sterling Cleaners also offer wash and fold services-pick-up and delivery. So, if you are in the greater DC Metropolitan area, that is the best option to prevent color from fading.