can you mix colours in washing machine
Can You Mix Colours in Washing Machine?
Laundry day can be a daunting task, especially when you have a pile of coloured clothes to wash. One question that constantly arises is whether it is possible to mix colours in the washing machine without ruining them. This article will explore the possibility of mixing colours in a washing machine and the best practices to ensure your clothes come out clean and brightly coloured.
Benefits of Mixing Colours in a Washing Machine
Firstly, let's establish the benefits of mixing colours in a washing machine. The primary benefit is convenience. Instead of separating colours into different loads, you can save time, water and energy by combining them. Additionally, mixing colours encourages you to wash smaller loads, which can be a more efficient way to do laundry.
Another potential benefit of mixing colours is that it could prevent fading. When similar colours are washed together, the dye molecules in the fabric can bond together, resulting in more vibrant colours. Consequently, keeping your clothes' colours vibrant and prevent colour fading.
An expert Tips to Mix Colours in Washing Machine
While mixing colours might be convenient, it is not without its risk. However, here are expert tips to help you mix coloured clothes in your washing machine without ruining them:
Sort the Clothes by Type
Before mixing colours, it is essential to sort them according to the type of fabric. Mixing towels with clothing may result in lint residue sticking onto clothes. Other fabrics may require a specific wash cycle or temperature to maintain their quality.
Sort the Clothes by Colour
After sorting by fabric, sort the clothes by their colour. Darker colours, such as blue, black, and red, may bleed onto lighter colours such as white or pastel shades. This can result in permanent stains that can ruin clothing. Instead, wash darker colours with a similarly dark colour like dark green, dark blue, or dark purple.
Choose Compatible Detergent and Fabric Softener
Choosing compatible detergents and fabric softeners is essential, mainly since some detergents can cause fabric bleeding creating marks, stains or marks on clothes. Use detergents that are formulated for coloured clothes only, and consider using a fabric softener designed for your colourful clothes as well.
Wash at the Appropriate Temperature
Different fabrics and colours require different washing temperatures. Whites and pastels can typically be washed in hot water, while dark colours usually require cold temperatures to maintain their brightness. Always ensure you read the labels on the clothes to know the appropriate washing temperature to use.
Use a Colour Catcher Sheet
Possibly the easiest way to mix colours is to use a colour catcher sheet. These sheets usually have special ingredients that trap and absorb colours during the wash cycle. They are particularly useful when washing bright-coloured clothes, preventing the colours from bleeding onto other clothes. Just remember to use these sheets with smaller loads and follow the directions on the packet.
Some Things to keep in Mind?
It is crucial to keep in mind that not all colours can be mixed together. Red and green, for example, can create a brownish colour tone. Additionally, black clothing may release black dye into the water and stain other clothes. If in doubt, it is always safer to wash a particular colour separately.
Conclusion
While it may be tempting to throw all coloured clothes together in a single wash, it's better to play it safe and wash darker, similar colours together. You don't want your favourite blue shirt that you've only worn a few times to come out pink! Taking care of your clothes and washing them according to their colour and fabric will ensure they last longer, and you get to wear them for more occasions.