How to Retain Color in Dark Clothing

When properly cared for, dark-colored clothing can retain its new appearance and last for a long time. If not washed properly, dark laundry can eventually become faded and shabby. Fortunately, dark clothing isn't too hard to maintain. Read on to learn how.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Separate your laundry. This may seem like a no-brainer, but some people still throw everything together to save time (and money from the water bill). Keep dark laundry together.

2. Turn the clothes inside-out before washing. This cuts down on abrasion during the wash cycle, which can take a toll on clothing dye.

3. Set the washer to a cold water cycle. Excessive heat can cause dark clothes to fade quickly.

4. Choose a special laundry detergent. Many detergent brands offer special formulas designed especially for dark clothing. Be sure that the detergent is not too harsh, as that can quickly fade dark clothing as well.

5. Hand wash any dark clothing of a delicate nature. This may take a bit more time, but it extends the life of your clothes in the long run.

6. Hang dark clothing items to dry. If possible, hang them somewhere indoors, such as the shower curtain rod. Excessive sunlight can cause as much fading as high heat on a dryer. If using the dryer, use the lowest heat setting possible.

Tips & Warnings

• When using the dryer, it helps to remove dark clothing while it is still a bit damp. The clothing can be laid flat to dry the rest of the way.
• If pressed for time, hand-washables can be put in the washing machine on a delicate cycle using special detergent. Some delicate detergent brands do offer dark clothing formulas.