How to Prevent Black Clothes from Fading

Classic black blouses, skirts, pants and dresses are perfect additions to any closet. But, after a while, the black may begin to fade. So, unless you plan on shifting your color scheme to a washed-out gray, follow these steps to help keep your black wardrobe looking crisp!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A washer and dryer
• Specialized detergent for black clothes
• Vinegar

1. Start with the initial purchase. Look for high quality black clothes that have been acid dyed or reactive dyed. Extra fine cotton and silk yarn hold color really well. When buying cotton t-shirts choose one that has lyrca in it.

2. Choose a detergent specifically for black clothes.

3. Wash your black clothes in cold water for one cycle.

Tips & Warnings

• When possible, dry clean your clothes to help them retain their color.
• Occasionally, you can have a garment dyed to its original black color. If you own a really expensive piece that has lost its crisp color, this might be a good option.
• Cheer Dark has chlorine scavenger agent which neutralizes the chlorine already in your water. It also has a dye transfer inhibitor which traps dye on the fabric.
• When washing a black article for the first time, use a cup of vinegar to lock in the dye.
• Know when to retire a piece. Black does not look good when it is faded.
• Dry clean your expensive black clothes and anything made of a really delicate fabric.

[theperfectfit]

on 1/12/2009 Natural fibers will not hold the dye. A black cotton dress will fade no matter what you do. Fabrics with some polyester in them hold the color longer.

[SleepyShadow]

on 3/10/2008 Vinegar? Hadn't thought of that. Thanks :)

[JoeyC]

on 7/20/2007 This is good advice...and I like black.