When it comes to doing laundry, one of the most common questions is whether red clothes can be washed with other colors. Many people have heard that red dyes tend to bleed and can discolor lighter fabrics. So is it true that reds can’t go in with colors? Let’s take a closer look at the facts.
The concern with washing reds
The concern with washing red clothes in with other colors stems from the fact that red dyes, especially synthetic ones, are notorious for bleeding. The dyes are not tightly bonded to the fabrics and can leak out during washing. This can then discolor other items in the load, leaving them with a pinkish hue.
Some examples of problematic red fabrics include:
- Bright red cotton t-shirts or other casual wear
- Red sweatshirts and fleece fabrics
- Towels and washcloths dyed a vivid red
These cheaper and more casual red fabrics tend to use looser reactive dyes. The more expensive natural fiber reds made from pigments or high quality dyes are less prone to bleeding.
When bleeding is most likely to occur
Red dyes are more likely to bleed under certain washing conditions:
- Hot water – The hottest water can cause excessive dye bleeding.
- Agitation – Vigorous agitation from an older top loading washer can result in more dye release.
- Detergent – Laundry detergents designed for cold water are less likely to loosen dyes.
Bleeding also tends to occur more on the first few washes before the dyes have fully set. So new red items are at the highest risk of bleeding onto other laundry.
Preventing red dyes from bleeding
Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to prevent red dyes from bleeding onto other clothes:
| Method | How it Helps |
|---|---|
| Wash red clothes separately the first several times | Allows dyes to fully set before mixing with other colors |
| Turn clothes inside out | Minimizes loose dye contact with other items |
| Use color catcher sheets | Absorbs loose dyes in the wash water |
| Soak in salt water beforehand | Sets dye so less will bleed off during washing |
| Wash in cold water | Hot water causes more bleeding |
With some simple precautions, you can keep the red clothes from staining the rest of the laundry.
Sorting laundry by color
The best way to avoid issues of color bleeding is to continue sorting laundry by color. Here are some guidelines on how to separate:
- Lights: Whites, pastels, bright colors most prone to discoloration
- Darks: Blacks, browns, navy blues, dark greens – dyes won’t show
- Reds: Bright reds, pinks, magentas
- Colors: Miscellaneous medium to darker tones
Bleach and color-safe bleach should only be used with whites and possibly lights. Be aware that some red dyes may bleed even in cold water onto lighter colors. Play it safe by washing those reds separately.
Can reds go in with darks?
Reds pose much less risk of bleeding when washed with darker fabrics. The dark colors help conceal any minor dye bleed. Some tips for washing reds with darks:
- Only wash darker reds – brighter reds still pose more risk
- Wash in cold water with gentle detergent and agitation
- Add salt or color catcher sheet for extra protection
- Pre-soak new red items before mixing with darks
With proper precautions, even brighter reds can be mixed in with dark loads. But take care, as a bit of color bleed may still occur with cheaper red dyes.
Specialty dye fixing agents
There are specialty laundry additives designed to further help dyes set and prevent bleeding. These work by bonding with loose dyes so they can’t bleed onto other clothes. Some popular options include:
| Product | How it Works |
|---|---|
| Synthrapol | Neutralizes dye molecules |
| Retayne | Encapsulates loose dyes |
| Dye Magnet | Absorbs and traps dyes |
These are especially useful for hand dyed fabrics and specialty items like quilts where bleeding can be disastrous. Follow product instructions to pre-treat or add to the wash cycle.
Whitening agents
If dye bleeding does occur and whites or lights end up with a pinkish tinge, there are options for removing the discoloration. These whitening agents can help restore clothes to their original brightness:
- Chlorine bleach – Effective on white cottons and linens
- Oxygen bleach – Whitens without chlorine when used in hot water
- Borax – Natural whitener that helps strip out stains and dinginess
- White vinegar – Helps brighten laundry as a fabric softener
Bleach products should always be used with caution on colored fabrics. Test first in an inconspicuous area.
Conclusion
To summarize, red dyes do have a tendency to bleed during washing under certain conditions. But there are preventative measures you can take to wash your red clothes safely with a full colored load:
- Sort lights, darks, and reds into separate groups
- Wash new red items separately several times
- Use color catchers when washing reds
- Wash reds in cold water on a gentle cycle
- Only mix darker reds with dark colors
- Pre-treat reds with dye fixing agents as needed
With proper laundry habits, you can keep red clothes looking vibrant without worrying about dye bleeding disasters. Sort mindfully, take precautions, and don’t be afraid to wash your reds alongside other colors.