How to Use Chlorine Bleach to Clean Clothes

Chlorine bleach, used to boost the cleaning power of regular laundry detergents, is ideal for removing tough stains and occasionally whitening fabrics, but improper and long-term use may take its toll on fabric life and colors. Pretest on the garment for color- and fabric-steadfastness before using it on a stain.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Chlorine Bleach
• Laundry Detergents
• Chlorine Bleach

1. Read the garment's care label and make sure that it does not warn against using bleach.

2. Dilute the bleach according to the directions on the product's label.

3. Begin the wash cycle, adding laundry detergent as directed.

4. Add bleach to the washer 5 or 6 minutes later, making sure that the washer is full with the soapy water.

5. Launder as usual.

6. Watch closely for color change; rinse immediately if you see any sign of dye change.

Tips & Warnings

• Chlorine bleach works best with whites in a hot or warm wash.
• Don't use bleach on fabrics made of silk, wool, Spandex, urethane or polyurethane, or on permanent-press fabrics.
• Work in a well-ventilated area, being careful not to breathe in fumes. Avoid contact with eyes and skin, as well as with metal spoons or containers.
• Don't mix bleach with other cleaning agents.

[rathornton]

on 12/23/2006 Thank you! As a married man for 31 years I had NEVER done a load of laundry in my life. Now that I am single, eHow is my guide to all things domestic in addition to being my primary source for finding out how to do almost anything. By the way - do you have any articles on dealing with ex-wives? Probably too hard to find an SUCCESSFUL expert in that field!

on 11/22/2005 Chlorine bleach works equally well in cold water, better because the hot water tends to 'vaporize' the chlorine. And washing in cold water is less espensive, too!