How to Fix Bleach Spots on Black Pants

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Never add bleach when washing dark-colored clothing.

If you've just pulled your favorite pair of black pants out of the washing machine and see bleach spots everywhere, It's not the end of the world. It happens to many people quite often. Most bleaching mistakes occur by accident, such as when adding bleach to the colored-clothes wash. Despite using remedies to eliminate or treat bleach spots, the area that contains the spot might be permanently damaged. Before you toss your pants into the nearest trash bin, experiment with different techniques to fix unsightly bleach spots on your black pants.

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Things You'll Need

  • Black permanent marker

  • Black dye

  • Needle and thread or sewing machine

  • Patches

  • Fabric

  • Rhinestones or other embellishments

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Step 1

Color the spots with a black permanent marker. Try this option to help blend the color into the black background and hide the bleached areas. Note that this is not a permanent fix, as the marker will eventually fade in four to seven washes, or turn purple during repeated washings.

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Step 2

Dye the pants. Visit the laundry aisle at a local grocery, fabric or retail store and purchase a black dye product in liquid or powder form.

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Step 3

Follow the instructions listed on the box. In most cases, you will soak the pants in a water and dye solution for a specified time period. When done, you will wash the pants in a washing machine to remove any excess dye and dry them. Once you complete the entire process, you can wear your newly dyed black pants.

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Step 4

Add more spots with a bleach pen to create a new look. Although some people initially feel disappointed when they discover bleach stains on their black-colored pants, it can give them an opportunity to express their individuality and creative side by turning a disaster into a successful art project.

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Step 5

Make heart- or other-shaped spots, position them in different places on the pants or you can even try to spell your name with the spots. There's no limit to what you can create.

Step 6

Embellish the spots. Cover smaller areas with items such as plastic rhinestones, bows, buttons or flowers. Sew a patch or colorful fabric over larger spots. You can find these items at craft, retail or fabric stores. For very large areas, it's best to just dye the pants.

Tip

Wear old clothing and rubber or plastic gloves while dyeing your pants, as the dye can stain your clothing and hands. To increase the chances of dyeing the pants evenly, treat the bleach stains with a color remover first. Check the laundry aisle for this product.

Warning

Depending on the type and brand that you use, after you dye the pants, the new color may appear lighter or darker than the original color.

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