Sorting laundry by colour correctly is essential for extending its life and preserving the original colour intensity. If you're unsure which colours can be washed together, you may run into issues like colour bleeding or loss of freshness. Here are a few tips that will help you avoid these common mishaps.
How to prevent colour bleeding?
Using colour catcher sheets is a simple way to protect your clothes from unwanted colour transfer. If you’ve bought new clothing with bold colours, it’s best to wash it separately first to check whether it bleeds.
Colour sorting
Always wash white laundry separately to keep it bright and clean. Light shades, such as pastels, should be washed separately from dark colours that may release dye. Dark clothing, like black or navy blue, should always be washed on its own to prevent staining lighter items.
Combining similar shades
When washing coloured clothes, it’s best to combine similar shades. Light colours like blue, green, and yellow can go together. On the other hand, dark shades like black and deep navy should be washed separately. If you're unsure, test if the fabric bleeds colour.
Temperature and correct programme
Wash coloured clothes at 30–40 °C to help preserve colour intensity. Delicate fabrics and printed clothing usually require gentle washing cycles. Follow the care label instructions to avoid damaging your garments.
How to keep colours fresh?
Use detergents specially designed for coloured clothing that help preserve the vibrancy of the colours. Avoid using bleach, which can weaken the fibres and cause fading. Air drying is gentler on clothes and helps them retain their original look.
If you're unsure, stick to the basic rule: always wash white, light, and dark clothes separately. This simple step will help keep your clothes clean, fresh, and free from unwanted colour stains.
